Safety

Safety at sea is of utmost concern to all who work there .
There are rules and regulations covering most areas of shipping . Everything from how many lifebuoys a vessel should carry to appropriate certification of personnel .
In recent years the introduction of ISM ( International Safety Management )
and Quality Assurance has lead to an increased awareness to
safety and added just a bit more to the paperwork .

In the UK the agency primarily reponsible for legislation , safety and certification is the Maritime and Coastguard Agency . This new name incorporates both the MSA (Marine Safety Agency) and the Coastguard
The MCA investigates and reports directly to the upper levels of the government on accidents and incidents at sea .

Small Boat Owners - advice

Here are some safety tips for the pleasure sailor that hopefully will save him / her some grief ;

Make sure your boat is sea worthy - get a survey if you are not sure .
Before setting out to sea you MUST have basic skills and knowledge in survival , seamanship , navigation and Rules of the Road
Join a sailing or boating club for training and advice . In the UK call the RYA on 01703 629962 for advice of your nearest club .
Before setting out check the forecast , the weather can change very quickly .
Listen to the local shipping forecast on the radio ,
or use BT's marinecall weather (UK)
or lookup the marine forecast on Teletext (UK)
or telephone the local Coastguard or listen to the forecast on VHF ch 67 (UK & Ireland)
Carry safety equipment and know how to use it
Carry essential repair equipment for your boat and your engines and sails
Use a radar reflector , otherwise you might be very difficult to detect from larger shipping
Check on tides and check your route for hazards
Let someone ashore know where you are going and when you will get there and how many are onboard
Do NOT overload the boat

Links to Safety Related Sites

Health and Safety
Health and Safety Executive
Maritime and Offshore Safety

MAIB
Canadian Coastguard
USCG Marine Safety and Environmental protection site
Hong Kong Marine Dept.
Rescue and Safety Coastal Lifeguards (UK) A colourful site with lots of links and information .

This page was last updated on 21 st October 1998