Special regs 2003 compliant liferaft

Ocean Safety announce new product launch

Ocean Safety, one of Europe’s leading suppliers of marine safety equipment, has released the new ISAF Forties Liferaft, the first on the UK market to be fully compliant with the Special Regulations from the International Sailing Federation that came into effect on 1 January 2003.

Following the revised requirements laid down in the Special Regulations, the ISAF Forties Liferaft sets a new standard in the ruggedness of its construction. The new raft also benefits from a variety of new features designed to incorporate the lessons learned from recent races such as the Sydney-Hobart 98 in which liferafts were deployed and found to be deficient in a range of areas.

Design enhancements include larger water pockets for improved stability, a highly visible orange floor for easy identification and a new upgraded emergency pack. The boarding system has also been redesigned to improve entry from the water, and the first aid kit reconfigured. The emergency pack has additionally undergone stowage enhancements, making it easier to access the essential equipment with cold, wet hands.

Offshore racing yachtsmen purchasing new liferafts from the start of 2003 will need to be aware of the changes to the regulations.

The new ISAF Forties Life raft can be use in conjunction with the current Codes of Practise and Class XII legislation dispensations when fitted with either a SOLAS B pack or accompanied by a compliant grab bag.

Prices start at £1945 inc VAT for the four-man valise, and rise to £2520 inc VAT for the eight-man canister

Ocean Safety was established in 1989 and specialises in the supply and service of marine safety equipment and consultancy to a worldwide client base. The company has grown rapidly since its formation and today boasts a diverse range of customers including ship and superyacht builders, round-the-world racing yachts and the UK’s Ministry of Defence.