Graduate Programs Handbook

Appendix I

Personal Safety Policies on Center Boats

Personal Safety Policies on Center Boats

The goal of the following policies is to prevent the occurrence of serious accidents to persons aboard one of the Center's boats. Individuals aboard or using the SoMAS boats are expected to adhere to these policies. Responsibility for developing and revising policies governing personal safety aboard the SoMAS boats lies with the SoMAS Ships Committee.

ABOARD THE R/V Seawolf

  1. While at sea, the Captain of the R/V SEAWOLF is solely responsible for all matters relating to the safe operation of the vessel and the personal safety of members of the vessel's crew and science party. The Captain is responsible for implementing the following policies. In consultation with the chief scientist, he/she can require additional safety precautions to be taken if circumstances so warrant.
  2. When required by the Captain, all persons on deck must wear a USCG-approved personal flotation device (PFD).
  3. For those members of the science party who have not been aboard the SEAWOLF for at least six months, the Captain will provide a brief safety lecture before the cruise.
  4. Under no circumstances will a member of the science party pilot the vessel. In special circumstances, a member of the science party may operate the deck gear under supervision of the Captain or Mate. The Captain and Chief Scientist must both agree to such an arrangement.
  5. The permanent Captain and Mate of the SEAWOLF will hold American Red Cross certification in CPR and first aid.
  6. While the vessel is underway, the Chief Scientist will notify the Captain of any members of the science party working or otherwise on deck.

SMALL BOAT OPERATION

  1. Any individual operating one of the SoMAS small boats must have the explicit approval of the Small Boat Captain. Such approval will be granted when the individual demonstrates that he/she is familiar with the fundamentals of small boat handling and basic safety at sea.
  2. The Small Boat Captain will arrange for adequate instruction in small boat handling and personal safety at sea for SoMAS personnel requiring such instruction.
  3. An individual aboard any of the SoMAS small boats will wear a USCG-approved personal flotation device (PFD) at all times.
  4. Users of the SoMAS small boats are to operate the craft in a safe manner, reporting any mishaps, mechanical or equipment failures, or personal accidents to the Small Boat Captain either immediately by radio or upon return to SoMAS. Use of the SoMAS small boats is restricted to legitimate research and teaching activities of SoMAS. Private use of these boats is prohibited.
  5. Discretion should be exercised when using one of the small boats in adverse or threatening weather conditions. The Small Boat Captain has the final say as to whether or not a cruise will occur in such circumstances.

 

Page last modified on Sunday, September 30, 2007 by George E. Carroll