Working on a ship isn’t just about steering, finding your way, or running engines. It’s a full-on team effort where everyone needs to be in sync. Teamwork skills training shows up for every maritime c...
Preventing oil spills from ships is crucial for protecting the marine environment, local economies, and human health. Oil spills can cause lasting damage, but with the right preparation, crew training...
Managing ballast water management systems (BWMS) is a critical responsibility for modern ships. Ballast water management ensures vessel stability while preventing the spread of invasive marine species...
Safety drill training for seafarers helps crews react appropriately when real danger strikes. Seafarers have jobs that put them directly in environments where quick decision making and being ready for...
Lifeboat and life raft procedures form the backbone of emergency response at sea. Knowing how to use these lifesaving tools and understanding the steps involved during an evacuation can make all the d...
Man overboard drills play a really important role in Emergency Response Training on board any vessel. Whether I’m responsible for a yacht, a large commercial ship, or a small workboat, knowing exactly...
2 responses to “Man Overboard Drills: Preparation And Execution”
What really stood out to me in your Man Overboard Drills article was how clear and practical everything is; my son is joining the Merchant Marine next year, and this piece has been incredibly helpful for us in understanding the drills he’ll be practicing so he feels confident and safe before his journey. I do have one question: what’s one common mistake people make during man-overboard drills that you’d warn learners to watch out for, especially under pressure? That insight could spark great discussion and help others train smarter. Overall, it’s a reassuring, well-organized guide that’s already made a real difference for us as we prepare him for life at sea!
Thank you so much for sharing this, it truly means a lot to hear that the article has been helpful for your family as your son prepares for such an important next step. The Merchant Marine is a demanding path, and being mentally prepared for safety drills is a huge confidence booster.
One of the most common mistakes during man-overboard drills, especially under pressure, is losing clear communication and role discipline. In the moment, people may all rush to “help” at once, skip calling out “Man overboard,” or forget to maintain constant visual contact with the person in the water. That breakdown can slow the response more than any technical error. Emphasizing calm, loud communication and sticking to assigned roles, no matter how urgent it feels, makes a real difference in real-world outcomes.
I’m glad this sparked conversation and preparation for you both, and I wish your son a safe, confident start to his life at sea. Thank you again for the thoughtful comment and kind words.