MOB Recovery

Term from Sailing Instruction industry explained for recruiters

MOB Recovery (Man Overboard Recovery) is a critical safety procedure in sailing that involves rescuing someone who has fallen into the water. This is one of the most important safety skills that sailing instructors need to master and teach. It includes specific techniques for spotting a person in the water, maneuvering the boat safely back to them, and getting them back aboard. You might also see this referred to as "Man Overboard Drill" or "Person Overboard Recovery" in more contemporary terms.

Examples in Resumes

Certified instructor for MOB Recovery and emergency response procedures

Trained over 100 students in Man Overboard techniques and safety protocols

Led weekly MOB and Person Overboard Recovery drills for sailing school students

Typical job title: "Sailing Instructors"

Also try searching for:

Sailing Instructor Boating Safety Instructor Maritime Safety Trainer Yacht Captain Water Safety Instructor Marine Instructor

Where to Find Sailing Instructors

Example Interview Questions

Advanced Level Questions

Q: Can you describe how you would train other instructors in MOB recovery techniques?

Expected Answer: A senior instructor should discuss creating structured training programs, emphasizing different recovery methods for various conditions, and implementing safety protocols. They should mention experience in assessing instructor competency and providing constructive feedback.

Q: How do you adapt MOB recovery techniques for different vessel sizes and weather conditions?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of various recovery methods, ability to assess environmental conditions, and experience in modifying techniques based on boat type and crew capabilities.

Intermediate Level Questions

Q: What are the key steps in your MOB recovery procedure?

Expected Answer: Should be able to clearly explain the standard steps: shout 'man overboard', assign a spotter, throw flotation device, perform recovery maneuver, and safely bring person aboard. Should mention maintaining visual contact and communication.

Q: How do you teach MOB recovery to beginner sailors?

Expected Answer: Should discuss breaking down the procedure into manageable steps, emphasizing safety, using clear communication, and providing hands-on practice with proper supervision.

Entry Level Questions

Q: What is the first thing you do when someone falls overboard?

Expected Answer: Should know the immediate response: shouting 'man overboard', pointing at the person in the water, throwing flotation device, and assigning someone to keep constant visual contact.

Q: What safety equipment is essential for MOB recovery?

Expected Answer: Should be able to list basic safety equipment: life rings, throw ropes, flotation devices, and recovery aids. Should understand where these items should be stored on a boat.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic MOB recovery procedures
  • Understanding of safety equipment
  • Knowledge of basic sailing terms
  • Ability to follow emergency protocols

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Teaching MOB recovery to beginners
  • Managing recovery in various conditions
  • Emergency situation assessment
  • Group instruction techniques

Senior (5+ years)

  • Training other instructors
  • Creating safety protocols
  • Advanced recovery techniques
  • Emergency response leadership

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No formal MOB recovery certification
  • Lack of hands-on teaching experience
  • Unable to demonstrate different recovery methods
  • Poor understanding of marine safety regulations
  • No experience with emergency protocols