The History of the IMRF

The IMRF: Our Story

Founded as the International Lifeboat Federation at the first-ever International Lifeboat Conference in London in 1924, the IMRF has evolved to become the world’s leading charity that focuses on the development and improvement of global maritime SAR capacity in order to further reduce loss of life at sea. A lot has happened in maritime SAR over the last 100 years and during that time the IMRF and its predecessor organisation, the ILF, and their membership have been at the centre of the development and sharing of knowledge relating to rescue craft design, life-saving technologies and SAR training, as well as promoting the establishment of new maritime lifesaving organisations worldwide.

The IMRF has brought together the world's leading maritime SAR organisations from around the world to provide a critical forum for the development of some of the biggest issues impacting maritime SAR operations, including vessel design and operation, lifesaving equipment and training, and personnel safety. In 1985 it was granted non-governmental consultative status with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in recognition of the good work being undertaken and the growing need for an organisation to act as a global focal point for maritime SAR. In 2003, it was registered as an independent charity and in 2007 the organisation was renamed the IMRF, reflecting the broader scope of modern maritime SAR activity.

In July 2024 the IMRF celebrated its 100th anniversary since its founding in July 1924. As part of the celebrations, we delved into our archives to bring you a selection of images showing the evolution of maritime SAR and the IMRF over the last 100 years. We hope you enjoy looking at these. Here’s to the next 100 years of working together to further enhance maritime SAR!

For the IMRF's history series, click here.

Latest

IMRF Maritime SAR Academy launches first modules

The IMRF Maritime SAR Academy is launching its first e-learning modules, marking a major milestone in the development of a new global learning platform for maritime search and rescue (SAR) personnel.
IMRF leads industry-wide forum on tackling battery fires in search and rescue

Alongside the University of Queensland, the IMRF led a day of discussions that explored the risks and responses to the growing issue of battery fires on board car carriers, ferries, fishing vessels, tugs and leisure craft and small work boats.
The Maritime SAR Academy: A Global e-Learning Platform

Thanks to a major three-year grant from The TK Foundation, the IMRF has launched the Maritime SAR Academy for maritime SAR personnel and commercial seafarers. It is a modern, accessible e-learning programme designed to strengthen lifesaving capability worldwide.
Our Members

Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) and SAR

Commercial MASS and remotely operated vessels could play a significant part in future maritime SAR operations to help improve capabilities and operations.
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IMRF Members around the world support each other and share knowledge, experience, expertise and innovations.
Our Members
Basic Rescue Boat Operator Manual & Search Cards

This manual, together with the accompanying Rescue Boat Operator Search Cards, provides recommended best practice for any organisation looking at introducing basic training in Rescue Boat SAR operations.
SAR Matters: Defining Distress Continued ...

People known to be in distress need to be rescued, of course – and the SAR community knows that this concept must also be extended to those believed to be in distress, and to those who, while not yet in distress, will become so if help is not provided to them in the meantime.
MRO (Mass Rescue Operations Guidance)

The IMRF has developed the most comprehensive guidance available for planning and preparing for Mass Rescue Operations (MROs) in the maritime environment.
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The IMRF: Our Story

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