MAN OVERBOARD

Code No: 644

Video Running Time: 26 minutes

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Man overboard is not a common emergency at sea. Its infrequency means that without good training personnel are unlikely to know how to respond correctly - and acting quickly is essential for an effective rescue.

This package deals with all aspects of the man overboard situation. It starts by pointing out that prevention is better than cure so everyone needs to make sure they don't fall overboard themselves. Good personal protective equipment helps. And if work involves any risk at all of falling over the side, then a life jacket, a safety harness and someone to supervise safety are all obligatory. The video describes and shows what must be done if you see a person fall overboard. We also explain what anyone who falls overboard should do once they are in the water. The issues of cold shock and heat loss are clarified.

As far as the bridge is concerned a response is shown in detail. This includes: releasing a lifebuoy and smoke float, altering course, recording the position, notifying the master, getting help to the bridge, notifying the engineers, sounding the general alarm, notifying nearby traffic on the VHF and sounding three blasts on the ship's whistle.

In the rescue boat itself correct procedure is crucial in recovering the person from the water. Depending on conditions, the casualty may be suffering from near drowning, hypothermia and dehydration. In a cold sea they may well be too weak to hold a line. A variety of equipment that can be used to aid recovery is shown. The principle is to keep the casualty as horizontal as possible to avoid post rescue collapse.

Once aboard the rescue boat, the casualty should be laid flat with their head to the stern. If the victim is cold they need to be kept warm with the TPAs. If they are not breathing, then mouth to mouth resuscitation must be started. Whether they are unconscious or not, first aid, based on the ABC principle will be needed.