The Marine Accident Investigation Bureau (MAIB) has recently investigated two separate incidents of life threatening injuries, both sustained by crew members who were struck on the head by mainsheet fine-tuning blocks on 37 foot racing yachts.

There is concern that the similarity of these incidents could indicate a need to increase awareness within racing and cruising crews of the danger of all running rigging during fast gybe manoeuvres. Note to skippers/instructors: When briefing crews about potential dangers, as well as stressing the importance of avoiding the boom, especially during a planned gybe and at all times when sailing downwind, remind them that all parts of the running rigging can also become lethal projectiles, especially any sheet blocks that are hanging unsupported in the mainsheet arrangement.

Please use the link above to see the MAIB's report.