Table of Contents #8.2 The operator is able to:
A: Make physical contact with and secure man overboard... B: by taking action without injury to the person.
Understanding the Element • “Make physical contact” means contact with a boat hook, or a line has been made to the man overboard (MOB).
• “Secure” means the line has been secured to the MOB, the operator and/or passenger have hold of the MOB, and the MOB has been bought aboard the boat.
• The MOB faces significant risks during the process of retrieval. The good intentions of a boat operator can turn into injuries or fatalities during the retrieval process. Contacting the MOB with the boat or propulsion unit or taking too long to retrieve the MOB can cause significant risk to the MOB. This skill is included to ensure the operator can actually retrieve a MOB once the boat has returned to the MOB.
• This element is for a MOB who is conscious and uninjured.
Designing Instruction • This maneuver contains other, more specific skills. Therefore, teach it after students have learned specific skills such as turning the boat, stopping the boat, etc.
• This may not be an easy task, depending upon the condition (e.g., conscious or not, the person’s weight) of the MOB and the design of the boat (e.g., having a swim ladder).
• Making physical contact needs to take into consideration the condition of the MOB. Plan for different procedures based on condition of the MOB (e.g., injuries, temperature exposure, and level of consciousness).
• Avoid grabbing onto a person by the life jacket unless it is equipped with leg straps. A weakened person may easily slip out of a properly fitting life jacket. Use a swim or removable ladder if available and wind/water conditions permit.
• Use a mannequin or simulated MOB to teach this skill.
• Instruction should teach critical thinking skills for assessing the boat, equipment available, and best methods and location for retrieval.
• Instructions should reference the importance of post recovery actions.
• When making physical contact with the MOB, be on guard against injury by contact from the propulsion unit or the hull.
• Account for varying conditions such as wind and surrounding objects that may affect the performance of this skill. • If securing the MOB aboard the boat is not possible, ensure the MOB has adequate floatation and call for assistance.
Assessing Performance Level
Successful Performance
3 Falling
overboard is the first event in accidents that cause over 170 deaths per year.
Proficiency description
The operator: Throws line to simulated MOB or reaches with a boat pole and makes secure contact with MOB on the first attempt. Turns off engine once physical contact is made with the person. Securely assists MOB alongside the boat’s gunwale to transom or appropriate boarding area. Secures MOB aboard the boat. Retrieves throwable flotation aid. Maintains proper lookout throughout maneuver with an eye on the MOB. Gives appropriate and timely orders to passengers (if present) in the process of making physical contact with and securing the MOB.
This Technical Support Document was produced in part through USCG grant funds to develop National On-Water Skills Standards. 57 ©2022 United States Sailing Association. Facilitated by Think First Serve.
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