MAR/General/TBT-MAR-005

Man Overboard Procedures

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Man Overboard Procedures

Toolbox Talk Record

Ref: TBT-MAR-005  |  Issue: 1  |  Date: March 2026
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What?

  • Man overboard is a life-threatening emergency requiring immediate and rehearsed response.
  • Cold water shock can incapacitate a person within seconds of entering UK waters.
  • Every person working near water must know the man overboard alarm and response procedure.
  • Rescue equipment including life rings, throw bags, and boarding ladders must be accessible.
  • The initial response is to raise the alarm, maintain visual contact, and deploy a life ring.
  • Nobody should enter the water unless they are a trained water rescue operative.
  • The casualty's position must be marked and communicated to the rescue team.
  • Personal flotation devices significantly increase survival time and must be worn near water.
  • The Merchant Shipping Regulations and CDM 2015 apply to marine construction work.
  • Regular man overboard drills must be carried out so all personnel know their roles.

Why?

Save livesRapid response is the difference between rescue and drowning — every second counts.
Cold water shockUK water temperatures cause incapacitation in seconds and hypothermia in minutes.
Legal requirementMarine safety regulations require documented man overboard procedures and drills.
Trained responseUntrained rescuers entering the water frequently become casualties themselves.
Do Don't
  • Shout 'man overboard' immediately and point continuously at the casualty.
  • Deploy a life ring or throw bag towards the person in the water.
  • Maintain constant visual contact with the casualty until rescue arrives.
  • Alert the vessel operator or site emergency controller without delay.
  • Note the time and location where the person entered the water.
  • Wear a personal flotation device at all times when working near water.
  • Attend all man overboard drills and know your assigned role.
  • Know the location of all rescue equipment before starting work.
  • Keep rescue equipment clear, accessible, and in good condition.
  • Call 999 and request the coastguard if the incident is at sea.
  • DON'T jump into the water to rescue someone unless trained to do so.
  • DON'T lose visual contact with the person in the water.
  • DON'T delay raising the alarm — shout and act immediately.
  • DON'T remove or obstruct access to life rings or rescue equipment.
  • DON'T work near water without wearing a personal flotation device.
  • DON'T assume the casualty can swim — cold water disables quickly.
  • DON'T skip man overboard drills — they are essential for effective response.
  • DON'T move the vessel without confirming the casualty's position first.
  • DON'T ignore a false alarm — always respond as if it is real.
  • DON'T use rescue equipment for any purpose other than emergencies.

See also: Marine Works Safety Awareness | Drowning Prevention and Water Safety
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