Canadian company Ovatek was fianlist in two cateogories at last month''s Icelandic Fisheries Awards for the recognition of its work in the marine safety sector with its unique liferaft systems.
The Ovatek rigid liferaft consist of a double fibreglass shell filled with 3.3cm of polyurethane foam combining strength, buoyancy and installation, according to the company.
The insulated foam core of the raft provides protection from extreme cold and heat and minimises the risk of hypothermia.
According to Ovatek, the life rafts can also be used as a 'safe haven' during storms as well.
Annual inspections are also not required on the Ovatek liferafts, dramatically reducing costs over the life of the equipment. Replacement of food and internal safety packs are on an as required basis.
Ovatek's are available in a four and a seven person model. The Ovatek 4 weighs only 115kg while the Ovatek 7 weighs 182kg.
Each raft comes with a SOLAS-A approved survival kit, mounting cradle, paddles, sea anchors and pumps and hydrostatic release.
During research and testing, over 5,000kg of concrete was needed to sink an Ovatek 7. An Ovatek liferaft was also dropped from 15 meters on a concrete parking area which resulted in only minor damage.
According to the company, Ovatek liferafts have been used in a number of sinkings and in each case the rafts performed well with no injuries or loss of life.
Ovatek liferafts have Canadian and US Coast Guard/SOLAS approval on its rafts and world wide distribution of the rafts is well over way.
