Like Stephen's job was, my job is Survival Equipment and have at least 26yrs experience and am presently with Qinetiq at Boscombe Down and still in the trade. It was good to read your forum articles regarding the servicing of liferafts and agree that there are a few 'cowboys' out there who probably think they can service there own. I bought an container Avon liferaft a couple of years ago as I was going to start my own service station when I left the RAF, but finances was the main issue. I asked one of the guys who has a yacht if he wanted it of which he said yes, but could we service it of which we have. (For those who are thinking of doing there own servicing) when we opened the liferaft the smell was unbearable as the painter had acted as a wick and the Liferaft had to be inflated with the cylinder off and was thoroughly washed and aired for about 3-5 days. The cylinder needed hydro-testing and refilling (of which was sent away and done) also the Pyro's were out of date. The seal around the container has to be replaced of which again has been done. Prior to re-packing the liferaft we re-inflated the raft to make sure that the inflation valves (where the cylinder is fitted) were working and also the pressure relief valves worked of which did. The raft will be packed and the survival aids stowed in a professional manner, and will work if and when required.
