survival systems international Capsules for Increased Persons on boards
Client Overview
- Client: SBM Offshore
- Sector: Offshore Oil & Gas – Floating Production, Storage, and Offloading (FPSO)
- Objective: Increase personnel capacity (POB) on existing FPSOs to meet new regulatory requirements while maintaining full operational uptime.
How New Regulations Left SBM Without Enough Lifeboat Capacity
New international regulations increased the average assumed crew weight for offshore lifeboat capacity calculations. For SBM, this created a critical issue: existing lifeboats could no longer legally accommodate the same number of personnel.
Without action:
Immediate Crew Reduction
Crew numbers (POB) would have to be reduced immediately.
Commercial Losses
Reduced manning would limit simultaneous operations and cause commercial losses.
Impossible Replacements
Complete lifeboat replacements were impossible without long downtime and expensive system swaps.
FPSOs are notoriously space-restricted. Installing larger lifeboats normally means removing existing davits and winches — an operation that causes weeks of disruption. SBM needed a solution that added capacity without sacrificing uptime, space, or safety.
The Solution:
SSI's Capsule-Based Lifeboat System
Survival Systems International proposed a compact, capsule-based lifeboat system that could increase total capacity while fitting within SBM's existing deck constraints.
Key Innovations
Single-Cable Davit System
Compact, centralised lift design allowing installation without replacing existing systems.
Single Welded Delivery
Fully welded davit and cradle units shipped as one piece, eliminating heavy lifts or scaffolding offshore.
High Capacity
Each capsule designed for up to 80 persons within a shorter, oval footprint.
Multi-Role Capability
Capsules double as rescue boats with superior in-water maneuverability.
Enhanced Safety
Proven zero-accident track record, safe-release hook systems, and integrated stretcher and rescue functions.
Minimal Deck Space Requirement
Capsules mounted on outriggers, freeing valuable deck area.
survival systems international Capsules for Increased Persons on boards
Installation Strategy: Capacity Added, Downtime Eliminated
SSI's engineering and project management approach focused on speed, safety, and minimal disruption.
survival systems international Capsules for Increased Persons on boards
Operational and Commercial Results
The outcome was immediate and measurable.
POB Capacity Restored
POB capacity restored and increased, enabling SBM to maintain and expand crew levels under new regulations.
Zero Extended Downtime
Zero extended downtime: Critical production operations continued uninterrupted.
Revenue Protection
Revenue protection: SBM avoided losses associated with reduced manning or temporary shutdowns.
Asset Value Increased
Asset value increased: FPSOs became more attractive to charterers due to higher personnel capability and long-term compliance.
Future-Proof Fleet
Future-proof fleet: Standardised 21- to 80-person capsule range enables modular upgrades without major redesigns.
"The real commercial benefit is exponential - a small installation cost multiplied across years of improved manning, uptime, and asset utilisation."
- JORDAN ROBERTSON
Long-Term Partnership and Industry Impact
SSI's collaboration with SBM demonstrated how smart design and precise execution can solve one of the offshore industry's toughest challenges - increasing lifeboat capacity without downtime.
Ongoing developments include:
Remote Monitoring
Remote monitoring and in-davit testing for compliance verification.
Continuous Feedback
Continuous feedback loop between SSI and operators to evolve lifeboat safety standards globally.
Key TakeawayS
• Increased Lifeboat Capacity.
• Minimal downtime.
• Future-Proof Compliance.
SSI's capsule solution allowed SBM to safely and rapidly expand POB limits - proving that lifeboat capacity upgrades don't need to mean operational loss.
Facing FPSO Lifeboat Challenges?
Is your offshore operation grappling with new Personnel On Board (POB) requirements and updated weight guidelines for lifeboat capacity?
Don't let potential operational disruptions, costly downtime, or regulatory non-compliance impact your safety and profitability.
Partner with Survival Systems International to implement proven, compliant, and future-proof lifeboat solutions, just like SBM Offshore. We ensure increased POB capacity, minimal operational downtime, and long-term regulatory compliance.