West Coast Groundfish Observer Program Manual, Part2 - NOAA

CHAPTER 8 CHAPTER 8
Illness and Accidents
Observers must contact a coordinator and AOI any
time an injury occurs or any time illness or injury
prevents sampling!
If you become ill on board, such as coming down with a
severe cold or flu or seasickness that inhibits work, you
must inform your coordinator of the situation. If the
illness gets worse or continues to affect your work for more
than three days, your assignment may need to be changed.
If you are hurt on board, contact AOI and your
coordinator. If the accident is serious, the captain will
contact the USCG who will respond as necessary.
V. Emergencies on Board
Cold-Water Near Drowning
Cold-water near drowning is a phenomena that has been
observed in cold waters. Victims have been revived using
CPR after being immersed in cold water for up to one
hour. CPR is an exhaustive activity that requires more than
one caregiver. The compression rate should be about 80
beats per minute in series of fifteen compressions, followed
by two breaths. It has been said that bad CPR is better
than no CPR. Keep in mind that although a victim looks
dead, s/he may be revived by this technique
Man Overboard
Everyone has an active role in a man overboard emergency.
If you witness someone falling over, you must notify the
person at the vessel controls and keep the victim in sight.
According to the station bill, crew members are assigned
specific tasks; for example, donning an immersion suit to be
the rescue swimmer, launching a life boat, or throwing a life
ring. As an extra set of eyes, the best role for the Observer is
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