Guard Rail

A protective barrier fitted around exposed parts of a vessel’s deck to reduce the risk of people falling overboard.

On small craft, the guard-rail system commonly consists of stanchions supporting one or more tensioned wires or rails between the bow and stern pulpits. Openings or gates may be provided for boarding, and safety netting is sometimes added for a particular operating need.

A guard rail is not an absolute restraint. Stanchion bases, terminals, wire, gates and attachment points should be inspected for looseness, corrosion, damage and inadequate tension, and crew should use suitable handholds and personal safety equipment when conditions require them.