D. Partially enclosed lifeboats

i. Partially enclosed lifeboats shall comply with the requirements of section 4.4 and in addition shall comply with the requirements of this section.

ii. Partially enclosed lifeboats shall be provided with permanently attached rigid covers extending over not less than 20% of the length of the lifeboat from the stem and not less than 20% of the length of the lifeboat from the aftermost part of the lifeboat. The lifeboat shall be fitted with a permanently attached foldable canopy which together with the rigid covers completely encloses the occupants of the lifeboat in a weatherproof shelter and protects them from exposure. The lifeboat shall have entrances at both ends and on each side. Entrances in the rigid covers shall be watertight when closed. The canopy shall be so arranged that:

it is provided with adequate rigid sections or battens to permit erection of the canopy;

it can be easily erected by not more than two persons;

it is insulated to protect the occupants against heat and cold by means of not less than two layers of material separated by an air gap or other equally efficient means; means shall be provided to prevent accumulation of water in the air gap;

its exterior is of a highly visible colour and its interior is of a colour which does not cause discomfort to the occupants;

entrances in the canopy are provided with efficient adjustable closing arrangements which can be easily and quickly opened and closed from inside or outside so as to permit ventilation but exclude seawater, wind and cold; means shall be provided for holding the entrances securely in the open and closed position;

with the entrances closed, it admits sufficient air for the occupants at all times;

it has means for collecting rainwater; and

the occupants can escape in the event of the lifeboat capsizing.

iii. The interior of the lifeboat shall be of a highly visible colour.

iv. If a fixed two-way VHF radiotelephone apparatus is fitted in the lifeboat, it shall be installed in a cabin large enough to accommodate both the equipment and the person using it. No separate cabin is required if the construction of the lifeboat provides a sheltered space to the satisfaction of the Administration.