Frank Lanier

A bent toggle bolt, at top, will prevent the lifeline from being tightened and is a potential point of failure. Any damaged hardware item, such as this broken stanchion mounting bolt, at left, should be replaced immediately. Stern rails are often burdened with solar panels, outboard engines, wind generators, davits, barbecues, and man-overboard poles that make inspecting them difficult and add stress to the lifeline system, at right.

Lifeline security

Make inspection and maintenance your watchwords Issue 97 : Jul/Aug 2014 During the golden age of sail, old salts greeted new crewmembers with the advice, “One hand for the ship and one hand for yourse...

May 13, 2026