The life expectancy of an IRB is dependent upon a number of factors including:
- Quality of IRB manufactured
- Hours of use
- Correct inflation
- Type of use
- Storage and handling
- Maintenance standards.
If well managed, the life expectancy of an IRB can be extended. When the IRB is left on the beach ready for a rescue operation, it should always be left on a trailer if possible or on the sand with the bow facing up the beach so that the IRB is in a natural draining position. The public, particularly children, should be kept away from the IRB where possible by using designated Powercraft signs and cones.
Diligent attention to post operational washing down and cleaning will assist in prolonging the reliability and service life of the IRB. It is also important to check the fuel bladder in the IRB on a regular basis. On a hot day the bladder may inflate due to pressure build up within the fuel bladder. This will need to be released to ensure that the pressure does not cause stretching of the bladder resulting in fuel leaking onto the floorboard.