Propeller Strikes

Boat propellers pose a risk that can too easily be ignored because they are ‘out of sight and out of mind’. A strike from a propeller can cause serious injury or even death.

Propeller-related injures are preventable and the skipper should take precautions to ensure the safety of all on board.

Spinning props a ‘hazard zone’

The skipper should consider the area around the prop as a ‘hazard zone’ and be vigilant in ensuring that no part of any person comes near a spinning prop. Being aware of this hazard zone is particularly important for people involved in tow sports like water-skiing and wakeboarding and where powerboats are used near swimmers or children such as sailing schools or surf clubs.

Propeller precautions

Maritime recommends some basic safety guidelines as follows:

• Inspect the area near the stern to ensure the area is all clear before starting the engine.
• Turn the engine off near people in the water as some propellers may continue to spin, even in neutral.
• Keep a proper lookout at all times when underway, especially when near swimmers.
• Stay out of designated swimming areas.
• Observe ‘distance off’ rules and keep clear of people in the water, passive craft and other vessels.
• Brief any person driving the powerboat on the risks.
• Keep all arms and legs inside the boat and not over the bow or sides – bowriding and ‘teak surfing’ (holding onto the stern of a boat that is underway) are illegal in NSW.
• Wear a kill-switch lanyard when boating alone. A kill-switch lanyard is attached to the arm and stops the engine when pulled out.

Skippers can also consider technology such as wireless engine cut-off switches, propeller guards and alternative propulsion systems. The best action, however, is for skippers to take care, keep a proper lookout at all times and keep people out of the ‘hazard zone’.

Divers and swimmers

Make sure you keep a good lookout for snorkellers, spearfishers, divers and swimmers. Be especially alert when you see the “Alfa” flag which means there are divers below.

If you are diving from a vessel you must display this flag and it is strongly recommended that you use the Alfa flag at all times while snorkelling, diving and ocean swimming.