In the 1950s, use of inflatable life rafts became widespread in the maritime community, when large ships began to carry them as spare survival crafts. These early inflatable rafts could automatically float free of a sinking ship, inflate and be ready for use if lifeboats could not be used. By 1960, life rafts became mandatory for passenger and cargo ships. These were float-free life rafts intended to be used in the event that lifeboats were unavailable. Inflatable life rafts have also increased safety on smaller ships, which have limited space.
Most modern units have carbon dioxide cylinders that automatically inflate the raft.
Since these life rafts have no means of propulsion, these ships must carry at least one rescue boat, which facilitates man-overboard rescues, assists other ships in distress, and tows life rafts away from danger. In some cases they have even been used to replace the traditional lifeboat. Another designed by Ole Brude, a pioneer in the field, looked something like a torpedo and, instead of being lowered by wires, slid off the low side of the ship on rails. In spite of the obvious advantages of the totally enclosed lifeboat, these heavy, expensive steel boats never caught on. To battle the hypothermic effects of cold climate sea emergencies as well as to solve the dilemma of deep sea oil rig evacuations, the Totally Enclosed Motor Propulsed Survival Craft was developed to provide shelter for its passengers.