Construction and fitting out

Much of the work needed to build inflatable and rigid inflatable boats used by the RNLI is carried out at the Inshore Lifeboat Centre.

Hulls of inflatable D class lifeboats and those of the X, XP and Y classes, Lifeguard (Arancia) and boarding boats are either brought in from the manufacturer or made at the ILC.

Radios, first aid kits, compasses, anchors, throwing lines, grab handles, fire extinguishers, flexible fuel tanks, sea anchors, spare propellers and tool kits are fitted. Equipment must be stowed in neat compartments, each one purpose made. The lifeboats' inflatable sides are in sections, so if one is punctured, the others remain inflated.

The basic hull of the rigid inflatable B class Atlantic 75 is moulded at the ILC in a purpose-built workshop. Atlantic 85 hulls are manufactured by both outside contractors and on site at the ILC.

Petrol tanks are installed below deck and the sponson (inflatable tube) is carefully fitted to the rigid glass fibre hull. A console for the crew to sit on, incorporating a steering wheel, engine controls, batteries, electrics and instruments is fitted out and added.

The aft roll bar carries a righting system inflated by CO2 bottles as well as navigation equipment such as radar. The Engineering office at RNLI Headquarters collaborated with ILC staff to develop the righting system along with inversion proofing for engines and electrical equipment so engines will restart after the crew have righted the capsized lifeboat.

These systems are unique to the RNLI's vessels. Staff at the ILC who build and refit the lifeboats, also test and trial the vessels to ensure absolute reliability and quality prior to delivery to the appropriate station.

The work is very skilled and a team of over 80 boatbuilders, fitters and solutionists are employed, including apprentices as well as supporting office and stores persons. They give support to lifeboat stations and lifeguard units on all aspects of inflatable and rigid inflatable boat supply and maintenance. Just like RNLI crews, their work and attention to detail is vital for saving lives at sea.