A rescue boat davit is only as reliable as its last proof load test. At MI Solutions, our onboard team recently completed a full proof load test on a rescue boat davit, verifying structural integrity and confirming the operational performance of both the davit and its braking system. This article breaks down the test procedure and the standard our life-saving appliance service team applies to every davit and launching appliance test.
From pre-test inspection to calibrated load application and final sign-off, this is what a proper proof load test looks like when safety of life at sea is on the line.
Test Parameters at a Glance
The proof load test was carried out on the rescue boat davit and its braking system, delivered end-to-end by MI Solutions’ in-house onboard team:
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Safe Working Load: 3.8 Tons
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Proof Test Load: 4.18 Tons (110% of SWL)
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Test Method: Calibrated Water Bags & Digital Load Cell
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Result: Zero Deformation, No Brake Slippage
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The Test Procedure, Phase by Phase
MI Solutions executed the davit proof load test in four stages, each managed by our in-house onboard team with one point of contact from mobilisation to certification.
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Phase 1
Pre-Test Inspection & PreparationBefore any load was applied, the davit structure, wire falls, sheaves, and mounting points were visually inspected for wear, corrosion, or deformation. The braking system was checked for correct engagement and free movement. Calibrated water bags were rigged and connected to a digital load cell, allowing precise, incremental control of the applied test load throughout the procedure. |
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Phase 2
Load Application, Water Bag MethodThe test load was applied in controlled stages up to 4.18 tons, equal to 110% of the davit’s 3.8 ton safe working load. Water bags were used in place of solid test weights, allowing a safer, more precisely adjustable load with easy draining if the test needed to be paused. The digital load cell provided continuous real-time monitoring, confirming the exact load applied at every stage rather than relying on estimated weight. |
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Phase 3
Structural & Braking System VerificationWith the full proof load held in position, the davit structure was checked for any deformation, abnormal movement, or unusual stress at the mounting points and structural joints. None was found. The braking system was tested under full load and held securely with no slippage, confirming it would safely arrest and hold the rescue boat under real emergency launch and recovery conditions. |
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Phase 4
Load Release & CertificationThe load was released in controlled stages while the davit and braking system were monitored throughout, confirming a clean return to baseline with no residual deflection. Proof load testing of davits and launching appliances is required under the IMO LSA Code, and the completed test data and results were fully documented and handed over to the vessel for certification purposes. |
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The Result
Confirmed Safe for ServiceThe davit sustained the full 4.18 ton proof load without any deformation or abnormal movement, and the braking system held securely with no slippage throughout the test. Delivered with 100% in-house skills and full documentation handed over to the vessel, this is the standard MI Solutions applies to every LSA and FFA servicing project across Africa and the Middle East. |
Related Services from MI Solutions
Davit and launching appliance testing frequently sits within a wider LSA servicing scope. MI Solutions provides all of the following under one roof, with one point of contact and no subcontracting delays:
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LSA & FFA
LSA Inspection, Repair & ServicingFrom davit load testing to full lifeboat and rescue boat servicing, MI Solutions’ life-saving appliance service team covers falls and release gear inspection, hydrostatic release unit replacement, and full LSA servicing to class requirements. |
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Marine Hydraulics
Davit & Winch Hydraulic RepairWhere a davit’s hydraulic winch or power pack needs attention alongside a load test, MI Solutions’ marine hydraulic repair team covers actuators, cylinders, and control valves across all major manufacturers. |
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Marine Mechanical
Rescue Boat Engine & Mechanical ServicePort visits are a natural opportunity to service the rescue boat engine alongside davit testing. MI Solutions’ marine mechanical engineers cover engine overhaul, pump servicing, and general mechanical maintenance. |
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Welding & Fabrication
Davit Structural Repair & FabricationWhere a load test reveals structural wear or fatigue, MI Solutions’ welding and fabrication team handles structural steel repair and precision welding to class requirements, onboard or in-house. |
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Marine Spare Parts
Davit Components & LSA Spares, Fast Supply to PortNeed davit wire falls, brake components, or LSA spares delivered to your vessel? As one of the most reliable marine spare parts suppliers in the UAE, MI Solutions sources and delivers class-approved components direct to port alongside the service team, across Africa and the Middle East. |
Need a Davit Load Test? Contact MI Solutions
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