What does "man overboard" refer to?

"Man overboard" refers to a situation where a person has fallen or been thrown into the water from the ship. This term is critically important in maritime operations because it necessitates immediate action to locate and recover the individual, as every second counts in such emergencies. The protocol for a "man overboard" incident typically involves activating alarms, deploying lifeboats, and executing search and rescue procedures to ensure the safety and retrieval of the person in the water.

Understanding this definition helps crew members recognize the seriousness of the situation, as it is different from equipment loss, personnel being away from their designated stations, or safety drills that do not involve an actual person in the water. Each of those scenarios involves distinct protocols and responses that are not as urgent or life-threatening as a person overboard.