“Quick Release” Trapeze/Hiking Harnesses – With the increasing number of incidents and fatalities involving sailors being trapped in harnesses, in November 2003 ISAF took the decision to legislate on the use of “quick release” harnesses. ISAF will not certify the construction or choose products, but just mandate that sailors use such a system. It is ISAF’s responsibility to prevent more fatal accidents happening to sailors. Included in the ISAF Racing Rules of Sailing 2005-2008, will be the following wording:

40.2 A trapeze or hiking harness shall have a device capable of quickly releasing the competitor from the boat at all times while in use.

However, recognising that there is not yet global availability of such products, RRS 40.2 will be deferred to take effect on 1 January 2006.