PMA issued revised circular MMC 194 for the certain requirements to allow extended service intervals not exceeding 30 months for novel inflatable Liferafts. Hence, a uniform and equivalent level of safety is maintained on board Panamanian-flagged ships carrying these novel inflatable liferafts onboard.

According to SOLAS regulation III/20.8.3, this Administration may allow extended service intervals not exceeding 30 months for novel inflatable liferafts. These extended service intervals may be granted if the new and novel liferaft designs have demonstrated consistent performance that meets testing standards during the extended service periods. Moreover, the MSC.1/Circ.1328 established the minimum standards to ensure an equivalent and uniform level of safety is maintained during extended service intervals.

This Circular applies to all novel inflatable liferafts installed or to be installed in Panamanian-flagged ships that seek permission from this Administration to be subjected to extended service intervals not exceeding 30 months. In addition, manufacturers who wish to provide these liferafts must follow the detailed instructions in paragraphs 7, 8, and 9 of the circular.

For more details read Circular