Question 47 LB01 - Lifeboat Operator

The Correct Answer is A **Explanation for Option A (Correct Answer):** If an inflatable liferaft inflates upside down, it must be manually righted. The proper procedure, often detailed in survival manuals and training, involves using the weight distribution and structural components of the raft to perform a successful roll. The CO2 bottle (or inflation cylinder) is typically attached to the lowest point on the buoyancy tube when the raft is inverted. Standing on this bottle provides necessary height and leverage. Holding onto the bottom straps (which are the grab lines or lifelines that are now facing upwards) provides a firm grip. By leaning or throwing your weight backwards, you shift the center of gravity of the entire raft/person system. This action applies significant torque, using the buoyancy of the tubes and the weight of the person to pull the high edge of the tube down and flip the raft over. **Explanation of Incorrect Options:** **B) Pushing up on one side of the raft:** This action is difficult to accomplish in the water while treading or swimming and would likely only result in the person sliding off the slick fabric or pushing the raft slightly sideways, not generating enough force or leverage to roll the entire structure. **C) doing nothing; it will right itself after the canopy supports inflate:** An inverted liferaft will not right itself automatically. While the canopy supports may inflate and stabilize the raft in its inverted position, they do not provide the mechanism or force necessary to flip the entire structure over against the water resistance. Manual action is always required. **D) Getting at least three or four men to push down on the side containing the CO2 cylinder:** This action is performed while the raft is **upright** and stable—for example, if a heavy wave threatens to capsize it. If the raft is already inverted, the CO2 cylinder is already at the bottom (or low side), and pushing down on that side would only stabilize the raft in its inverted position, making it more difficult to roll over. The goal is to pull the high side down, not push the low side lower.