The new international regulation ISO 9650, published on March 1st 2005, foresees two different models of liferafts according to the type of navigation: liferafts of Type 1 and Type 2.
The choice between the two types of raft (and safety equipment) is left to the captain, under his responsibility.

Concerning the type of navigation conceived for the rafts of Type 1, the ISO 9650 text quotes as follows:

Type 1 (from 4 to 12 persons)

are designed for extended voyages, where strong wind and significant wave heights may be experienced, but excluding abnormal atmospheric conditions such as the hurricanes. They can be thrown over board from the max height of 6m from the level of the water.

Type 1 rafts are divided into two groups:

• GRUOP A: (-15°C/+65°C) are equipped with a double floor for thermal insulation.
• GRUOP B: (0°C/+65°C) are equipped with a single floor.

The raft ISO 9650 Type 1, produced by Eurovinil, belongs to GROUP A.

As far as the safety equipment there are two options, depending on the time that it is expected to remain on board before being rescued (less or over 24 hours). The main difference between the two types of equipment is that the one >24h includes also food and water rations.

TYPE 1 LIFERAFTS (GROUP A)
WITH AN EQUIPMENT < 24H ARE ACCEPTED BY THE ISAF OFFSHORE SPECIAL REGULATIONS.