PAINS WESSEX MANOVERBOARD MK9: Comprehensive Overview
The Pains Wessex Manoverboard MK9 is a compact, SOLAS-approved lifebuoy marker designed to enhance maritime safety by marking the position of a person overboard, both day and night. Typically mounted on a ship’s bridge wing and attached to a 4 kg lifebuoy, it can be deployed automatically or manually.
Key Features:
Visual Signal: Emits dense orange smoke for 15 minutes, ensuring high visibility during daylight hours.
Illumination: Equipped with two self-contained, inversion-switched LED lights that exceed SOLAS requirements, providing 2 candela light output for over 2 hours.
Durability: Tested to withstand a drop from up to 100 meters, surpassing the SOLAS requirement of 30 meters, making it ideal for vessels with high freeboards.
Battery: Features a sealed-for-life lithium battery, eliminating the need for annual replacements.
Mounting: Comes with a universal stainless steel bracket for secure attachment.
Specifications:
Height: 375 mm (14.76 inches)
Diameter: 183 mm (7.20 inches)
Weight: 3.3 kg (7.27 lbs); with bracket: 3.85 kg (8.5 lbs)
Operating Temperature: 1°C to 30°C
Storage Temperature: -30°C to +65°C
Light Intensity: 2 candela
Flare Color: Orange
Lifebuoy Compatibility: Designed for use with a 4.0 kg lifebuoy
Attachment Line: 4 meters (13 feet)
Usage & Training:
In emergencies, the MK9 is deployed to mark the position of a person overboard. Its smoke and light signals provide clear visual cues for rescue operations. The device is safe for use on petrol or oil-covered water surfaces.
Storage & Disposal:
Store the MK9 upright in its mounting bracket within its original packaging. As a hazardous item, it must be disposed of responsibly through approved channels, adhering to local regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is the primary function of the Manoverboard MK9?
It serves as a visual marker, emitting smoke and light to indicate the location of a person overboard, facilitating prompt rescue operations.
How is the MK9 deployed?
The device can be deployed automatically when the attached lifebuoy is released or manually, depending on the situation.
Does the MK9 require regular battery maintenance?
No, it features a sealed-for-life lithium battery, eliminating the need for annual replacements.
Is the MK9 suitable for use in all weather conditions?
Yes, it operates effectively within a temperature range of 1°C to 30°C and can be stored between -30°C and +65°C.
What is the duration of the smoke and light signals?
The MK9 emits dense orange smoke for 15 minutes and provides light output of 2 candela for over 2 hours.
Can the MK9 be used on oil-covered water surfaces?
Yes, it is safe for use on petrol or oil-covered water, ensuring visibility in various marine environments.
What are the mounting requirements for the MK9?
It comes with a universal stainless steel bracket and is typically mounted on a ship’s bridge wing, attached to a 4 kg lifebuoy.
How many MK9 units are required on a vessel?
Ships are required to carry at least two MK9 units, one mounted on each bridge wing.
What is the maximum drop height the MK9 can withstand?
The MK9 has been tested to survive a drop from up to 100 meters, exceeding the SOLAS requirement of 30 meters.
How should the MK9 be disposed of after use or expiration?
As a hazardous item, it must be disposed of responsibly through approved channels, in accordance with local regulations.
