The new international regulation ISO 9650, published on March 1st 2005, foresees two different models of liferafts according to the type of navigation: liferafts of Type 1 and Type 2.
The choice between the two types of raft (and safety equipment) is left to the captain, under his responsibility.
Concerning the type of navigation conceived for the rafts of Type 2, the ISO 9650 text quotes as follows:
are designed for voyages, where moderate conditions may be met, in areas such as, but not limited to, coastal waters, large bays, estuaries, lakes and rivers.
They can be thrown over board from the max height of 4m from the level of the water.
Type 2 rafts must inflate in a range of temperature between 0°C and 65°C and are equipped with a single floor.
The ISO 9650 raft Type 2, produced by Eurovinil, exceeds the prescriptions of the ISO 9650 regulation, as it is equipped with a double floor for thermal insulation and can inflate in a range of temperature between -15°C and 65°C.