What are the UK statutory requirements for testing lifeboat and rescue boat engines?

Each lifeboat and rescue boat engine must be tested every week by being run ahead and astern for a total period of not less than 3 minutes provided that the engine can be safely run for this period when out of the water and the ambient temperature is above the minimum for starting the engine. Where lifeboats are fitted with mechanical hand-propelling gear, this gear should be examined and tested ahead and astern.