Lifeline Replacement
Replacing the lifelines on your boat over time is essential for ensuring the safety of everyone on board. Lifelines are designed to prevent man-overboard incidents and to act as a secure barrier between the deck and the open water. However, these critical components are subject to constant wear and tear, from the mechanical forces exerted by the movement of the boat to environmental factors such as saltwater, UV radiation, and temperature fluctuations. Over time, these influences can degrade the structural integrity of the lifelines, reducing their ability to withstand the forces they were initially designed to handle.
Failure to replace compromised lifelines could result in catastrophic consequences, including the loss of life. A lifeline failure during a crucial moment—say, during rough weather or when a crew member is leaning against it—could lead to a man-overboard situation, which is not only dangerous but also difficult to manage, especially in poor weather conditions.
There are several signs to look for that indicate it may be time to replace your lifelines. Rust spots or visible corrosion are clear indicators that the metal parts of the lifelines are degrading. For wire lifelines, fraying or kinking is a red flag, as it compromises the wire's load-bearing capacity. In the case of synthetic lifelines, look for signs of chafing, fraying, or UV degradation, usually evident by fading or a powdery residue on the surface of the line. The stanchion bases should also be inspected regularly for any signs of loosening or corrosion. If you see any of these signs or if the lifelines have reached the end of their manufacturer-recommended service life, it's time to replace them with new ones to ensure the safety of everyone on board.
When ordering new lifelines, precise measurements are crucial. Below, you'll find images that outline key measurement points for your reference. If you're unsure about taking accurate measurements yourself, you can remove the lifelines, tag each section to indicate its side and location, and then ship them to us for duplication. Please note that if you opt to measure the lifelines yourself, SendIt Sailing cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We've provided a measurement form for your convenience. Kindly fill it out accurately and email it back to us to receive a detailed estimate.
