The LifeSling: The Safest MOB Recovery Method

After multiple, well-reported incidents of failed man overboard recovery attempts, the thought leaders within the world of safety at sea are evolving their thinking regarding the best way to recover someone in the water.
The traditional side pick-up method, long the primary technique taught, is being replaced by recoveries using the LifeSling. The chances of a successful MOB recovery increases when the first recovery attempt is successful. Therefore, it is recommended to use your engine to get back to the person as fast as possible and then use the LifeSling to pull the person back aboard.
This video shows two different LifeSling recovery methods and some tricks to using the LifeSling more effectively.

[@pootsman6722]

How about if the MOB is unconscious?? What's the latest/best recommended way of retrieving then? Suppose the answer to this really depends on the number of crew, but I'm thinking in the case of a couple sailing, 1 MOB, the other on board.

[@warrenthorp]

I’d like to know the answer to this one too.

[@UK-Sailmakers-International]

There are always new and/or improved MOB recovery methods being developed. One solution for an incapacitated MOB is the use of a rescue swimmer in conjunction with a Mid-Line lift. The rescue swimmer is connected to the boat with a safety line, who will reach the MOB and get Mid-Line lifted together. This rescue swimmer needs to be trained and practiced at this manoeuvre. Otherwise, a second option which is less dangerous for the rescuer but more dangerous for the unconscious MOB is to manoeuvre the boat close enough that a rescue crew can be lowered on a halyard into the water to secure the MOB. This rescue crew should be wearing a harness and a PFD as well. Techniques to secure the MOB include using a tether, a second halyard, the LifeSling, or (if nothing else) bear-hugging the MOB. Many modern PFDs have a dedicated lifting strap built in which makes it much easier to find a secure lifting point to affix the halyard, etc. It's very important for crews to practice real world MOB drills and skills on a regular basis. It's also important to be familiar with your own PFD's features, including where the lifting strap and tether points are, and even better if you are also acquainted with your crew's equipment too for situations where they may be unable to help themselves. For anyone doing any coastal or offshore sailing, taking a reputable Offshore Personal Survival Course in your area is something I very highly recommend.

[@jonscott8586]

​@@warrenthorp there's an accessory with a coiled up line attached to the lifejacket harness. I forget the name (lifeline?). It can be pulled out with a gaff pole hook then used to lift the casualty. It is thin dyneema. That should overcome the difficulty of connecting to the casualty. The next issue is having sufficient power to lift them. Connecting to a raised 8:1 ratio block and tackle appears to be the preference. It tends to be the more experienced crew that are on deck whilst the least capable remain onboard. It is worth looking at it from that point of view.

[@kimhutlet7596]

I guess you guys don't believe in life jackets?