The Life-Saving Appliances (LSA) Code is a fundamental regulatory framework that prescribes the minimum performance and design standards for all life-saving equipment carried on board ships. Amendments to the LSA Code ensure that survival equipment remains reliable, modern, and effective in protecting life at sea.
Periodic updates from the IMO introduce new safety enhancements, technical corrections, and performance standards to align with advances in maritime technology and lessons learned from real incidents.
This blog summarizes the latest LSA Code amendments and explains what all ship types—cargo ships, tankers, and passenger vessels—must comply with.
🔍 What Is the LSA Code?
The LSA Code (IMO Resolution MSC.48(66)) sets mandatory technical requirements for:
- Lifeboats
- Rescue boats
- Liferafts
- Lifejackets
- Immersion suits
- Emergency lighting
- Launching appliances and arrangements
- Line-throwing appliances
- Visual signals
The Code works together with SOLAS Chapter III, which defines the carriage requirements for ships.
⚓ Why LSA Code Amendments Are Important
Amendments are introduced to:
- Improve survivability during marine emergencies
- Address accidents involving lifeboat launching systems
- Integrate new materials and technologies
- Standardize testing and performance criteria
- Fix technical gaps found during audits and PSC inspections
This ensures higher safety standards across the global fleet.
📘 Key LSA Code Amendments (Recent Updates)
Below are the major amendments adopted in recent years that apply to all ships.
1. Lifeboat Release and Retrieval Systems (RRS) Requirements
One of the most critical updates is the stricter approval and testing of RRS systems.
Key features:
- Non-fault-tolerant, on-load release hooks are no longer permitted.
- New hooks must pass MSC.1/Circ.1392 testing protocols.
- Existing lifeboats must be retrofitted with compliant, fall-preventer devices (FPDs).
This amendment was introduced after several fatal accidents during drills.
2. Improved Performance Standards for Immersion Suits
Updates include:
- Better thermal protection
- Enhanced glove dexterity
- Increased flame resistance
- Testing of zippers, seams, and buoyancy materials
Ships operating in cold regions (Polar Code vessels) must comply with stricter suit requirements.
3. Lifejacket Buoyancy and Performance Enhancements
Amendments address:
- Uprighting performance
- Minimum buoyancy distribution
- Improved visibility using high-retroreflective materials
- Suitability for children, infants, and oversized persons
Lifejackets must now work effectively even when the wearer is unconscious.
4. Rescue Boat and Lifeboat Engine Improvements
New requirements ensure:
- Reliable starting in cold environments
- Spark ignition protection for tankers
- Increased corrosion resistance
- Better propulsion in rough seas
Engines must pass endurance and overload tests.
5. Liferaft Stability and Inflation Requirements
Amendments strengthen:
- Float-free capability
- Canopy water-tightness
- Boarding stability
- Dual-chamber inflation systems
- Painter line strength testing
Hydrostatic release units (HRUs) must meet SOLAS-compliant load ratings.
6. Enhanced Emergency Lighting for Survival Craft
Ships must ensure:
- Higher LED intensity
- Longer minimum burn time
- Battery pack improvements
- Water-resistant switch design
Lights must remain functional even after immersion.
7. Marking, Identification & Traceability Changes
All life-saving appliances must now include:
- Serial numbers
- Approval certificates
- Manufacturer details
- Date of production and expiry (where applicable)
These markings improve lifecycle tracking for PSC inspectors and surveyors.
8. Testing and Survey Requirements Updated
Amendments to LSA Code testing include:
- Revised prototype and production tests
- More rigorous corrosion, drop, and load tests
- Updated materials testing
- Independent verification by recognized organizations
Annual and 5-year surveys under SOLAS now include detailed checks on LSA equipment.
🚢 Impact on Shipowners and Operators
Compliance is mandatory for:
- Newbuild ships
- Existing ships undergoing major LSA upgrades
- All ships during surveys and PSC inspections
Failure to comply can result in:
- Detention
- Deficiency reports
- Insurance complications
- Crew safety risks
📋 What Ships Should Do Now
✔ Review LSA inventory against latest amendments
✔ Ensure lifeboat hooks and RRS systems are compliant
✔ Train crew on updated procedures
✔ Replace outdated immersion suits and lifejackets
✔ Conduct frequent onboard testing
✔ Maintain clear records for PSC inspections
🛟 Conclusion
LSA Code amendments continually improve the reliability and performance of life-saving appliances on all ships. By keeping pace with these changes, shipowners ensure not only compliance with international law but—more importantly—the safety of every person aboard.
Regular training, proper maintenance, and proactive upgrades remain the foundation of maritime survival preparedness.