Ensuring Safe, Breathable, and Survivable Conditions at Sea
Totally Enclosed Lifeboats (TELBs) are designed to protect occupants from harsh weather, fire, and dangerous environments during emergencies. But because they are sealed, proper ventilation becomes absolutely essential for crew safety. Recent regulatory updates and industry practices place strong emphasis on ensuring TELBs maintain safe oxygen levels and prevent harmful gas accumulation.
⭐ Why Ventilation Matters in TELBs
Inside an enclosed lifeboat, the following can pose serious risks:
1️⃣ CO₂ Buildup
With multiple people inside, carbon dioxide levels can rise quickly, causing dizziness, headaches, and even unconsciousness if not managed.
2️⃣ Reduced Oxygen Levels
Lifeboats must maintain breathable air for extended durations, especially during long abandonment scenarios.
3️⃣ Heat and Humidity
With limited airflow, interior conditions can become extremely uncomfortable and potentially dangerous.
4️⃣ Ingress of Toxic Gases
External hazards like smoke, gas leaks, or chemical plumes must not enter the sealed lifeboat.
⚓ Key Requirements from Updated LSA Code Provisions
Modern lifeboat ventilation systems must ensure:
✔ Adequate Air Supply
Lifeboats must be equipped with ventilation arrangements providing sufficient air exchange to maintain safe CO₂ and oxygen levels.
✔ Protection Against Water & Spray
Ventilation openings must prevent seawater ingress during rough weather or capsizing scenarios.
✔ Fire and Smoke Protection
Air inlets require filtering or sealing mechanisms to protect occupants from toxic smoke or hot gases.
✔ Manual and Automatic Controls
Ventilation must function reliably during launch, towing, and survival operations.
✔ Compliance with SOLAS & LSA Code
The system should meet updated IMO standards for:
- Minimum internal air quality
- Safe atmosphere under “sheltered” and “unsheltered” conditions
- Passive and active ventilation system performance
🛠 Types of Ventilation Arrangements in TELBs
🔹 Natural Ventilation
Using strategically placed openings that maintain air movement without power.
🔹 Forced Ventilation (Mechanical)
Fans or blowers powered by the lifeboat’s engine or battery system.
🔹 CO₂ Absorption Systems
Chemical cartridges that help reduce CO₂ buildup when ventilation is limited.
🌊 Challenges in Real-Life Operations
- Heavy weather may restrict ventilation openings.
- Engines may fail, affecting powered ventilation systems.
- High occupancy reduces available breathable air faster.
- External toxic environments require complete sealing — making internal CO₂ control essential.
🧭 Design Enhancements in Modern Lifeboats
To meet stringent standards, new TELBs include:
- Integrated air purification systems
- Automatic sealing with emergency override
- Improved airflow pathways
- UV-resistant ventilation ducts
- Enhanced CO₂ absorption technology
These upgrades significantly boost survivability during prolonged abandonment at sea.
🎯 Conclusion
Ventilation in Totally Enclosed Lifeboats is not just a comfort factor — it is a life-preserving design requirement. The latest IMO and LSA Code updates ensure that TELBs provide a safe, breathable environment even under extreme conditions.
With better ventilation systems, modern lifeboats offer improved protection and significantly higher survival chances for all crew and passengers during emergencies