Article 98 Stowage and handling of liferafts, lifebuoys and lifejackets

In every vessel to which these Rules apply, liferafts shall be so stowed that they can be put into the water safely even under unfavourable conditions of trim and of up to 15 degrees of list either way.

In every such vessel every liferaft launching appliance shall comply with the requirements of Schedule 17 to these Rules.

In every such vessel liferafts for which launching appliances are provided, and such launching appliances, shall not be placed in the bows of the vessel and shall be so placed as to ensure safe launching having particular regard to clearance from the propeller and steeply over-hanging portions of the hull aft, and to ensure so far as is practicable that they can be launched down the straight side of the vessel.

In every such vessel means shall be provided for bringing liferafts for which launching appliances are provided, against the vessel's side and for holding them there for the safe embarkation of persons.

In every such vessel lifebuoys shall be so stowed as to be readily accessible to all persons on board, and in such a way that they can be rapidly cast loose.

In every such vessel lifejackets shall be so stowed as to be readily accessible to all persons on board. Their position shall be clearly and permanently indicated.