Princess Cruises has placed orders with marine safety specialist Survitec Service and Distribution (SSD) for 160 Crewfit Twin 2010 SOLAS approved gas inflation lifejackets and 100 Crewsaver Cell Drysuits, as part of a commitment to provide its crews with state-of-the-art safety gear at all times.
The cruise company, which sets a high priority on crew safety, has always specified SOLAS lifejackets for use on board, even when sailors are performing routine tasks in port. SSD's Crewfit Twin 2010 was designed to meet the stringent performance criteria of the SOLAS 2010 regulations (MSC200(80)). The lifejacket features two completely independent buoyancy chambers, each providing over 275N of buoyancy, with pressure release valves venting off excess gas on inflation.
The unique shaping of the inflation chamber gives improved body angle, mouth freeboard and face plane angles when in the water. Fitted with Hammar hydrostatic automatic inflation mechanisms, the jackets are resistant to accidental firing due to spray and excessive damp, making them ideal for use in lifeboats, rescue boats or ships tenders. In use the Crewfit Twin 2010 is easy to don, light and flexible. It is ideal for wearing while working as well as for rescue or abandonment situations. The state-of-the-art design takes crew safety to a new level with the high buoyancy level providing added protection when heavy work gear and clothing is worn.
Princess Cruises has also equipped each of its vessels with a supply of Crewsaver Cell Drysuits for use by its Damage Control teams. The suits will provide protection from the wet and cold if crews need to deal with an emergency situation such as water ingress below the water line. The type of challenges that cruise ships might face at sea make it vital that crew have the necessary equipment and experience in place to be able to remedy any damage.
The Crewsaver Cell Drysuit offers total wind and water protection. 'Glideskin' neoprene neck and cuff seals make the suits easy and quick to don, while ensuring there is a tight seal against water ingress, keeping the wearer dry, warm and comfortable. Access is through a front zip for ease of use, while an engineered shape ensures excellent flexibility and freedom of movement. The suit is part of the Crewsaver leisure range, with an established reputation for durability and performance.
Princess is one of the premiere cruise lines in the world. Its fleet carries more than a million passengers each year to more worldwide destinations than any other major line and the safety of its passengers and crew is the company's number one priority. Last year the company equipped all vessels with SSD Man Over Board (MOB) Recovery Systems. The SSD MOB System can be deployed from the ship's pilot door to recover a person if difficult sea conditions prohibit the launch of a rescue boat.
