SOLAS Regulation III/17-1: Recovery of Persons from the Water
"All SOLAS ships are now required to have clear arrangements for the recovery of persons from the water, in line with IMO guidelines. While this does not mandate additional equipment, vessels must have documented plans and procedures for using recovery systems safely and effectively. The guidance also encourages non-SOLAS vessels, including fishing boats, small craft, and pleasure vessels, to follow the same best-practice measures where practicable." (GOV.uk)
SOLAS Regulation III/17-1 requires ships to have planned procedures and suitable equipment for recovering a person from the water, ensuring that crews can carry out a safe and effective man overboard (MOB) recovery operation.
Introduced to address gaps in recovery capability across the maritime industry, the regulation focuses on preparation rather than mandating a single type of equipment. Instead, vessels must identify and document how recovery will be carried out using equipment appropriate to the vessel’s design, freeboard, and operational environment.
For operators, safety managers, and procurement teams looking for guidance on suitable recovery equipment, understanding this regulation is essential when selecting and implementing MOB recovery systems.
What SOLAS Regulation III/17-1 Requires
SOLAS Regulation III/17-1 applies to all passenger ships and cargo ships of 500 GT and above. The regulation requires ships to:
Have ship-specific plans and procedures for recovering persons from the water.
Identify equipment available onboard that can be used during recovery operations.
Ensure the recovery method minimises risk to both the casualty and the crew.
Take into account the physical condition of the person being recovered, including the possibility that they may be unconscious or unable to assist.
Rather than prescribing equipment, SOLAS requires operators to demonstrate that effective recovery arrangements exist and that crews are familiar with
Recovering a person overboard is one of the most critical emergencies at sea. This article explains the types of man overboard (MOB) recovery equipment and procedures used to safely lift casualties aboard vessels of any size or freeboard. From low freeboard ladders and scramble nets to high freeboard rescue slings, lifting strops, and cradles, we cover horizontal and vertical recovery methods, including parbuckling techniques for limited crew operations.
Learn how to select the right equipment based on vessel type, casualty condition, and sea conditions, whilst complying with SOLAS and IMO MSC.1/Circ.1447 guidance for safe, efficient, and medically ready recovery.
The SB Davit Product Booklet is now available for download, providing a clear, visual, and informative guide to the SB Davit system. Designed for crews, safety teams, procurement teams, and stakeholders, the booklet covers the davit’s operation, installation options, compatible recovery attachments, winch systems, and deployment procedures. Whether you’re using the equipment on board, managing safety planning, or making purchasing decisions, this easy to follow, visual guide booklet helps your team stay informed, prepared, and confident in their MOB recovery operations.
The SB Rescue Sling Product Booklet is now available for download, providing a clear, visual, and informative guide to the SB Rescue Sling system. Designed for crews, rescue teams, procurement teams, and stakeholders, the booklet covers how the system works, its attachments, setup options, and compatible products. Whether you’re using the equipment on board, managing safety planning, or making purchasing decisions, this guide helps your team stay informed, prepared, and confident in their MOB recovery equipment.
Download the SB Rescue Sling booklet today - in the Datasheets and Approvals section on the product page.
This article takes you into a live demonstration with the Norwegian Coastguard, where the SB Rescue Sling is shown in action. Made in Norway by Sula Vekst AS and distributed worldwide by I.C. Brindle & Co Ltd, the sling has become trusted for man overboard recovery. The video captures how quickly it can be deployed, how easily one person can use it, and how safely a casualty is brought back on board. Beyond the demonstration, the article explores how the sling adapts to different vessels and environments, meets international safety standards, and why navies and fleets across more than 60 countries continue to rely on it.
As the maritime industry grows, including sectors like commercial fishing, recreational boating, and offshore operations, the need for reliable rescue equipment becomes crucial. The SB Rescue Sling is a key tool designed to enhance rescue operations with advanced features suited for demanding maritime conditions. In this article, we detail the SB Rescue Sling and its packages: the Mounting Kit, PVC Cover, Forensic Bundle, and Training Bundle. Each package is tailored for specific rescue needs, offering versatile attachment options, added protection, precise operational tools, and training support.
In this article, we'll explore how these packages address various scenarios, highlighting the SB Rescue Sling’s value for professionals like you.
In this article, we discuss the use of pilot ladders – essential tools for safe vessel transfers. Going into detail about their crucial role as maritme personnel / crew transfer equiment, the rules they follow, and the challenges they face. We'll explore pilot ladder operations, analyise potential incidents, and offer strategies to enhance crew safety whilst using pilot ladders. Drawing on information set out by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), SOLAS Convention , the International Organisation for Standardization (ISO), SOLAS, and more.
Discover everything you need to know about the SB Rescue Sling MOB Retrieval System with our comprehensive Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) article. From understanding how the SB Rescue Sling works to learning about maintenance and compatibility with other life-saving equipment and accessories.
This article delves into the significance of enhancing safety at sea through the utilisation of innovative MOB equipment such as Cradles, Ladders, and Slings; exploring various reliable and approved solutions designed specifically to address the risks linked with MOB incidents. By prioritising safety, fostering a culture of preparedness, and investing in suitable MOB equipment, you can help to promote best practices, safety training programs, and awareness initiatives within the maritime community.
The SB Rescue Sling: MOB & Body Recovery System ((MCA & SOLAS accepted) for vertical recovery with rapid rescue - Full range of SB Rescue Sling & Accessories available!
