The invalidation applies to a total of 87 inflatable liferafts on 66 vessels, twelve of which have recently been at sea. Under maritime legislation, the vessels are considered unseaworthy until a repeated inspection of their liferafts has been conducted by an approved service provider, and it has been confirmed that they meet current safety requirements. Re-inspections carried out before 1 May 2026 will be free of charge for the operators.

The vessel operators have already been informed and provided with guidance on the next steps. These measures are part of the Icelandic Transport Authority’s ongoing efforts to strengthen oversight and ensure that lifesaving equipment consistently meets safety requirements for seafarers.

Since last autumn, supervision of inflatable liferaft inspections has been intensified. Measures have included closer cooperation with service providers through regular meetings, the issuance of specific guidance, updates to the inspection manual, and the involvement of a liferaft manufacturer’s specialist to assist with on-site inspections. Increased information sharing and educational initiatives for vessel operators are currently in preparation. Safety work is a continuous process and will remain a priority.