SOLAS III/17-1 requires all applicable ships to have practical and documented methods for recovering persons from the water. The aim is to improve preparedness for man-overboard (MOB) situations and increase survivability rates while keeping the crew safe. These plans must be integrated into the ship’s Safety Management System (SMS).
Key points:
- Applicability: All passenger ships (regardless of size) and cargo ships of 500 gross tonnage and above engaged on international voyages.
- Planning factors: Plans should consider the vessel’s design, equipment, freeboard, and recovery methods.
- Crew safety: Procedures must minimize risk to rescuers and allow for rapid recovery.
- Drills and suitability: MOB drills and recovery equipment should reflect the documented procedures.
While SOLAS III/17-1 doesn’t prescribe specific equipment or techniques, the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) supporting guidelines (MSC.1/Circ.1447) and many flag-state inspectors expect recovery plans to also address situations where the person in the water is unconscious or unable to assist themselves. During audits or inspections, reviewers often look for evidence that your vessel has a safe and practical way to lift or recover an incapacitated person without endangering the crew.