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Practical Seamanship / Boat Systems

Propeller hazard

Technical visualPropeller hazard
Propeller hazardA stern-view propeller danger diagram: control the engine, prevent accidental engagement, and keep swimmers and recovery operations clear of propulsion machinery.vesselpropeller danger areaswimmers clear
Propeller hazardA stern-view propeller danger diagram: control the engine, prevent accidental engagement, and keep swimmers and recovery operations clear of propulsion machinery.1CONTROL ENGINE2PREVENT ENGAGEMENT3KEEP PEOPLE CLEAR4VERIFY PROPULSION SAFE
Stop the boat and shut down propulsion before someone enters the propeller danger zone or is brought alongside; neutral is not enough.

Before anyone enters the water near the vessel:

control the engine

know where the propeller is

prevent accidental engagement

keep swimmers away from propulsion machinery

For boarding, recovery or person-overboard operations, stop the boat and shut down propulsion before the person enters the propeller danger zone or is brought alongside. Do not rely on neutral; a propeller may continue to spin.

Use the engine cut-off switch link where federal requirements apply.

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