What are the SOLAS regulations / requirements of lifeboat?

Additionally for Tanker lifeboats

• Self rightening fully enclosed.
• Self-contained air system (Oxygen bottle)
• Fire protected lifeboat (Sprinkler system)

Regulation for lifeboat engine as per SOLAS

• Lifeboat shall be powered by a compression ignition engine. No life boat engine can be used if the fuel used in it has a flash point of 43˚C or less.
• The lifeboat engine can either be two stroke or four-stroke type, and can be started either by hand or by power.
• The engine must be capable to operate when life boat be flooded upto waterline of crankshaft. Power starting can be by using accumulator batteries or hydraulic.

• In power starting, normally two independent rechargeable energy sources are provided. However, any starting method should be capable of starting engines at 15˚C of ambient temperature within two minutes of commencing of starting procedure.
• The engine power is transmitted to propeller through gearbox. The gearbox is capable of disengaging the engine as well as engaging in either ahead or astern direction.
• The exhaust pipe outlet is located well clear of waterline.
• Engine should be capable of operating for not less than 5 minutes after starting from cold, with lifeboat out of water.
• Neptha or Butane spray is injected in air filter to start from cold condition.