SP Hyperbaric Lifeboats (SPHL)

Self Propelled Hyperbaric Lifeboats

Self Propelled Hyperbaric Lifeboats (SPHLs) enable divers from a Dive Support Vessel (DSV) to be rescued from the diving system. They are only used, in the event of a major incident which requires the evacuation from the main diving vessel.

The lifeboats contain all ancillary equipment including engine, generator, crew facilities and life-support system, giving an independent survival capability of 72 hours. For a normal davit launched situation, the SPHL is equipped with two on-off-load lifting hooks, which are in stainless steel, conform the Solas rules and are so called “safe hooks”. For recovery and ease of handling a single point lifting arrangement is installed.

At the bow a reinforced towing point gives the possibility for the SPHL to be towed by a support vessel and alternatively for the SPHL to be towed onto the ramp of a recovery vessel.

Both towing and hoisting operations can be done from the steering dome without any dangerous operations outside of the SPHL.

The SPHL’s are built according to MED/SOLAS and the IMO Resolution A.692 (17) “Guidelines and specifications for Hyperbaric Evacuation Systems” as well as NORSOK standard for “Manned Underwater Operations”. The SPHL’s are available in different sizes, up to 24 divers per SPHL.

Thrust Maritime are aware of the following SPHL manufacturers (Please note this list does not include agents):