Strapping and harnesses
Boating is an activity that takes place on water, and there are hazards (both on the shore or launching areas, and on vessels) that increase the chances a person may end up in the water with the risk of drowning as a result.
Implications for practice and procedures
- A sailor using a wheelchair should not be strapped to their chair while on a pontoon, slipway or other location where there is a risk of the chair falling into the water.
- Any strapping or equipment designed for fixing sailors to boats to maintain posture or improve control of sails / steering, or for any other reason should be very carefully risk assessed and procedures put in place because of the increased risk of entrapment.
- If it is decided that a sailor should be secured to a vessel for any reason, the method of securing should be a quick release type and those responsible for safety should be familiar with the mechanism. Buckles that require positive release using two fingers are not appropriate. For example, many side release buckles require pressure on both sides to release.
Self righting means different things for different vessels, but they can and do get knocked down, increasing the risk of inversion and entrapment. Find out more.
Next: self righting boatsAn overview of the key elements of safety systems
Providers of activity have a clear duty of care to keep those involved in the activity safe. People of all ages, with a wide range of impairments go sailing. It is important to consider the person, the situation and the staff / volunteers involved before making safety decisions.
It is important to get the choice of personal flotation device right each time a person goes afloat, particularly for people who may not be able to actively participate in their own self-righting if they were to end up in the water.
Strapping and other equipment are used for several reasons including to maintain posture and improve control of sails and steering. Straps and harnesses can be used by a person day to day (for example, in a wheelchair) or as a specific part of sailing equipment.
Self-righting means different things for different vessels. Experience shows self-righting boats can and do get ‘knocked down’ or capsize, increasing the risk of inversion and entrapment. There are known examples where through a variety of factors they have subsequently inverted, including with the keel or weighted centre board retracted.
Any modifications that deviate from the original design specification may alter the stability characteristics of that vessel and access to the full range of controls (steering and sails).
When towing vessels participants usually remain in the boat. The seating arrangements in some vessels used for disabled people, and participants’ own limited mobility, may make it harder for the crew to stay out of the way of a tow rope, particularly if multiple vessels are being towed
Explore equipment like slings or wet nets, the importance for having a plan for individuals who may not be able to fully help themselves and the role really good communication plays
Seating and posture are important for both personal safety and the ability to take an active part in sailing.