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Horseshoes & MOB Rescue Systems

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HORSESHOE - LIFEBUOY RING - MOB SYSTEMS

The regulations

All lifebuoy rings intended for use in commercial ships must follow SOLAS regulations (96/98/EOK). As far as horseshoe lifebuoys and Lifelinks are concerned there is no standard commonly accepted by all countries. In this case each country sets its own requirements for the construction, the design and the durability of such products. Depending on the model, Lalizas Horseshoe Lifebuoys are approved according to Greek and French regulations.

Use

The main use for these products is the rescue of M.O.B (Man Over Board). In order to facilitate the rescue of those  who have fallen over board, retro reflective tapes and bright colours are used to increase visibility.

Instructions for use
When someone falls over board, a series of actions must take place in the shortest time possible in order to effect a rescue. If you have a lifebuoy ring or horse shoe lifebuoy on board, you must throw it towards the person in the sea and notify the person in charge of the vessel. The person in the water must hold tightly and securely on to the lifebuoy in order to stay afloat. (See illustration). Please keep in mind that the above-mentioned products are effective only when the person is able to swim and can assist in their own recovery. Consequently if you have children or non swimmers on board make sure  they wear the appropriate lifejackets at all times.

Prevention is  better than cure!
You should ensure that you have taken all possible action  and safety precautions in order to prevent someone from falling overboard.

• Practice the MOB procedure by day and by night in all weather and sea conditions simulating a casualty using a fender with a bucket attached. Instruct a member of the crew to watch the person in the water and point continuously.
• Always wear a lifejacket and harness that is correctly clipped on when on deck, at night  or in bad weather.
• Make sure that you hold on to a stable part of the boat at all times. One hand for you and one for the boat.

Maintenance / Replacement

These products are designed to withstand most weather conditions and exposure to sun light. however, in order to keep this equipment in good condition,  contact  with flame, extreme temperatures and any sharp edges must be avoided. LALIZAS suggests that you check the products and their straps thoroughly for any sign of wear, especially after use. If any signs of wear are detected, the items  must be replaced.

What can the casualty  do?

Firstly, the casualty must remain as calm as possible and look for the lifebuoy that may be floating close by. Taking into account that the greatest threat to survival is cold, the casualty should  cross their legs and hold the arms tightly together to restrict any movement and consequently the loss of heat. Also, all wrist, ankle and neck fastenings must be closed tightly. A light and a whistle on the lifejacket can be used to attract attention. In most cases, the casualty should not attempt to swim to the boat, as this will promote the rapid loss of heat and cause exhaustion . In severe conditions it is better for the casualty to turn their back to the waves in order to keep airways clear of spray.

Recovering the casualty

This is probably the most difficult part of the whole MOB procedure:

• If there is a boarding ladder on your boat and the casualty has the ability to help themself, this method is probably the safest and most obvious method of  recovery.
• You should be prepared to give immediate first aid, as the casualty may be suffering from shock and hypothermia. It is also suggested that you check whether the casualty needs professional medical attention.
• In case the casualty is exhausted or unconscious, an improvised lifting gear will be needed. A short strop with a block and tackle rigged on the end of a halyard will help you get the casualty on board.

All lifebuoy rings intended for use in commercial ships, must follow the SOLAS regulations (96/98/EOK). As far as horseshoe lifebuoys and Lifelinks is concerned there is no standard commonly accepted by all countries. In this case each country sets its own requirements for the construction, the design and the durability of such products. Depending on the model Lalizas Horseshoe Lifebuoy is approved according to Greek and French regulations.

This is a simple way to recover a man overboard. However, you do need to practice often to ensure success. Steer yacht into an 'apparent' beam reach (burgee across the yacht). Allow sea room to manoeuvre and get organised to recover the casualty. Tack and sail on the opposite beam reach so the casualty is now on the weather bow.  Approach on a close reach, easing the sheets in the final stages. Remember that leeway will increase as the yacht slows down.  It is often easier to come alongside to windward of the casualty.

Maintenance / Replacement
Since these products are designed to withstand most weather conditions and exposure to sun light. However in order to keep this equipment in good condition, you must avoid any contact with flame, extreme temperatures, and any sharp edges. LALIZAS suggests that you check the products and their straps for any sign of wear, especially after being used. If there are any signs, you will need to replace them.

Information

   

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