Quick Summary: A man overboard (MOB) emergency demands immediate, disciplined action. This guide explains the full man overboard response procedure that every seafarer must know, from the first shout to recovery and post-rescue care.
The Urgency of a Man Overboard Situation
Few emergencies at sea generate the same instant shock as the words “Man overboard.” It is a moment where seconds matter. The ocean is unforgiving, and a person in the water loses heat, strength, and visibility far faster than most people expect. The ship cannot simply stop. Its momentum, size, and turning radius mean it may take hundreds of meters to slow down or turn back.
Because of this, the man overboard response procedure is built on immediate reaction, coordinated teamwork, and a blend of practiced instinct and calm decision-making. Every seafarer trains extensively for this scenario, knowing that one day, those drills may determine whether a crewmate lives or dies.
The First Critical Seconds
A man overboard response begins the instant someone sees or hears the fall.
Raising the Alarm
The person who witnesses the incident must shout, “Man overboard, starboard side!” or “Man overboard, port side!” as loudly and clearly as possible. This shout triggers the entire response. At the same time, they must point continuously toward the person in the water. This simple action keeps visual contact and guides others toward the casualty.
Throwing a Lifebuoy
The nearest crew member should throw a lifebuoy fitted with a light and smoke signal toward the casualty. The purpose is twofold: to provide flotation and to mark the position so the bridge team can keep track of where the person entered the water.
Maintaining Visual Contact
One crew member must remain dedicated solely to keeping visual contact. In rough seas, even strong swimmers disappear between waves, and visibility can be lost in seconds. Pointing continuously helps ensure the casualty is never forgotten in the ship’s movement.
Immediate Actions on the Bridge
When the alarm reaches the bridge, the officer on watch initiates the vessel’s formal man overboard procedure.
Sounding the General Alarm
The general alarm alerts the entire ship and signals that emergency roles must be activated. Crew members proceed to assigned stations, and communication channels open immediately.
Marking the Position
Using the GPS MOB button, the bridge team records the exact position where the casualty fell. This becomes vital if visibility is lost or if the ship must circle back during the search.
Maneuvering the Ship
The officer on watch orders the appropriate maneuver based on conditions and vessel type. The three most common maneuvers are:
- Williamson turn
- Anderson turn
- Scharnow turn
Each maneuver has strengths for different speeds, wind directions, and sea states. The goal is always the same: return the ship safely and efficiently to the casualty’s position.
Communication and Coordination
Clear communication ensures the response unfolds smoothly. The bridge informs the master, who usually takes command of the situation. Engine control is notified, and propulsion adjustments are made promptly.
The crew prepares rescue equipment, including heaving lines, lifebuoys, rescue boats, and recovery devices. In many cases, a rescue boat is readied for launch, though sea state and vessel type may dictate whether launching is possible or safe.
Visual Tracking and Search
Maintaining sight of the casualty is essential. The designated lookout communicates with the bridge, describing the person’s position relative to the ship. If visual contact is lost, the smoke signal and light become the primary markers.
As the ship approaches the area, speed is reduced to avoid passing too close or creating dangerous propeller wash. The crew positions themselves strategically along the rails, watching for any sign of the casualty in the water.
Preparing for Recovery
Once the ship reaches the vicinity of the casualty, recovery procedures begin. Recovery depends on sea state, ship type, casualty condition, and available equipment.
Heaving Lines and Lifebuoys
If the casualty is conscious and near the ship, a heaving line may be thrown to pull them toward the vessel’s safe recovery point. Lifebuoys may be deployed as additional flotation.
Pilot Ladders or Accommodation Ladders
Some vessels lower a ladder if the conditions allow. However, climbing is difficult for someone cold, exhausted, or injured.
Rescue Boat Deployment
When weather permits, the rescue boat provides the safest and most controlled means of recovery. The rescue boat crew must be trained, equipped, and ready for immediate launch. They approach the casualty from downwind to avoid drifting over them.
Recovery Devices
Ships may also use recovery slings, Jason’s cradles, or specialized nets that allow the crew to lift the casualty onto the deck with minimal strain or risk.
Handling the Casualty Once Recovered
Recovery is not the end of the emergency. A person retrieved from the sea may be hypothermic, injured, unconscious, or suffering from shock.
Initial Assessment
Trained personnel assess breathing, pulse, bleeding, and responsiveness. Wet clothing is removed to prevent further heat loss, and the casualty is insulated with blankets.
Treating Hypothermia
Hypothermia is one of the most common and dangerous conditions following immersion. Gradual warming is essential. Rapid heating can cause shock or cardiac complications.
Administering First Aid
If injuries are present—such as fractures, cuts, or head trauma—they must be stabilized immediately. The master may request medical advice via radio, satellite, or telemedicine services.
When Visual Contact Is Lost
Losing sight of the casualty escalates the emergency into a search-and-rescue operation.
Expanding Square or Sector Search
Depending on drift, wind, and current, the bridge team may initiate search patterns designed to cover the area methodically.
Use of Searchlights
At night, searchlights trace the water surface. The light from the lifebuoy’s beacon may assist in relocating the casualty.
Coordination With External Authorities
If necessary, the ship contacts nearby vessels, coast guards, or rescue coordination centers. Commercial ships often assist one another during emergencies, knowing that the same help may one day be needed in return.
The Psychological Impact on the Crew
A man overboard emergency affects everyone onboard. The suddenness of the event, the urgency of the response, and the fear of losing a shipmate create emotional strain.
After the rescue—whether successful or not—the crew often experiences heightened stress. Debriefings help the team process the event, discuss what went well, and identify areas for improvement. Training strengthens technical skills, but emotional readiness develops through experience and open communication.
Building a Culture of Readiness
The man overboard response procedure is only as strong as the crew that practices it. Regular drills ensure that every seafarer knows their role. These drills emphasize speed, coordination, and calm execution.
A culture of readiness means that safety procedures become second nature. The crew trusts the system because they have rehearsed it many times. When a real man overboard incident occurs, the ship responds not with panic but with practiced precision.
Conclusion
A man overboard emergency is one of the most time-critical situations at sea. Lives depend on rapid communication, clear commands, coordinated teamwork, and accurate ship handling. From the first shout to the moment the casualty is safely on deck, each step in the man overboard response procedure reflects the discipline and professionalism of the crew. When everyone understands their role and trains with seriousness, the ship becomes a safer place for all who serve aboard her.
