Buoyancy aids under dry-suits etc

Originally posted by ratface Originally posted by Chris Bridges The trapeze line for the helm is in quite possibly the most annoying place.. when will crews ever learn that boats were designed with the helm in mind and not the crew on topic i always now wear a spray top or rashie  over my BA, unless im teaching

I am the helm and its in an annoying place for the helm... less than half a metre from the back of the wing, half way into the wing as oppose to on the edge. Its best to go behind it and hook on, but the space is so small you get caught on it

Originally posted by tmoore RE harnesses, isnt it 'illegal' to use a non quick releasing harness now? that being in the sense that events should not allow them. or does this only apply to RYA teaching etc?

For racing:

Originally posted by THE RULES SUPPLEMENT- 2 to the RACING RULES OF SAILING for 2005 - 2008 - Issued December 2005 Rule 40.2 The date in the note under rule 40.2 should be replaced as follows: Note: This rule takes effect on 1 January 2006 1 January 2009. This change in the note to Rule 40.2 will apply immediately and effectively means that rule 40.2 will not take effect before the new edition of the Racing Rules of Sailing (2009-2012) will be published. ISAF continues working on safety improvements and will publish information about quick release devices in January 2006 on the ISAF Website.

As to reality: there's an ISO standard due to be published in 2010. Chances are most QR systems around at the moment will fail to comply. Just, y'know, because. If something similar to 40.2 is in the 2009 rules, it'll likely make reference to the standard.

well even if its not a requirement, what would be bad about wearing a QR trap herness with rashie over and then BA over that. this way you can release the harness and all buckles etc are covered. and you can get the BA of if needs be.

RE harnesses,

isnt it 'illegal' to use a non quick releasing harness now? that being in the sense that events should not allow them.

or does this only apply to RYA teaching etc?

Originally posted by Webmuppet Hi everyone, There seems to be a current trend to wear a buoyancy aid under, rather than over, a dry-suit or spray-top. I can understand people who wear trapeze harnesses wearing a rashy over the top of their B.A. to reduce the chances of snagging up etc. So what are the advantages (or disadvantages) of wearing one under other sailing gear... and is there a safety implication ?

I would never wear my BA under a Drysuit. Not only does it hamper things if you need to be pulled into a rescue boat but looks like you dont have one on. The issue with the Fashion Trend to this may continue down to Junior/Cadet level where things may be more crucial.

Also consider the fact that you need to do something, under your boat, but your BA is restricting you, you could remove it if necessary. If its under a rashvest, then thats still ok, cos you can get it off if needed.

so the moral really is, wear it where it can be seen, as the very top layer!