Answer
As Chief/Second Engineer onboard, this is a critical SOLAS non-compliance (LSA Code) that invalidates the vessel's Safety Equipment Certificate. The ship cannot sail with an inoperable lifeboat engine.
- Immediate Action & Safety Isolation:
- Inform the Master immediately. Post a warning sign on the lifeboat controls: "NOT OPERATIONAL - DO NOT LAUNCH".
- Technical Troubleshooting (Without New Spares):
- Organize engine room team to perform complete line troubleshooting: air-lock in fuel line, water in fuel filter, faulty solenoid, clogged injectors, low starter battery voltage, or manual hydraulic spring starter failure.
- Attempt cannibalization/refurbishment: Clean injectors/filters, clean battery terminals, or recondition old replaced parts stored in the workshop.
- Reporting & Statutory Notification:
- If technical recovery fails, the Master must inform the Company Designated Person Ashore (DPA) immediately.
- Notify the Flag State Administration and Classification Society regarding the defect.
- Inform Port State Control (PSC) and Port Authorities transparently before sailing.
- Risk Assessment & Mitigation Measures (Requesting Dispensation):
- Propose an interim mitigation plan (e.g., if vessel has two lifeboats and total crew capacity is covered by the remaining operational lifeboat + liferafts with 100%+ capacity). Only if accepted by the Administration/company:
Possible compensatory measures may include:
- additional approved liferaft capacity;
- additional approved lifesaving appliances;
- additional watch;
- crew briefing;
- enhanced emergency readiness;
- restricted voyage;
- direct passage to repair port.
- Request an Interim Dispensation / Short-Term Certificate from Flag State to sail to the next port where spares/service engineers are available. Provide flag state with:
- defect;
- risk assessment;
- proposed temporary arrangement;
- repair plan;
- next port;
- expected rectification date.
Flag Administration decides whether a legally acceptable exemption / equivalent / dispensation or condition can be issued.
- Procurement Action:
- Send an emergency requisition to the company for local shore technicians or emergency supply of parts, regardless of it being a non-working day (commercial emergency).