Electric Winch and Windlass Safety

I asked several reps about this, specifically switch locations, and they all said it was left up to the common sense of the installer. Given the history of gruesome accidents, a little safety talk seems warranted. Installation safety is not well covered in the manuals I read.

Published: June 24, 2024

2. Not only is this switch too darn close to the winch, there is a silly wire drink holder near the path of the lines and a person sitting on the bench can easily fall into a running, unguarded, electric winch. Unspeakably dangerous and OSHA would just shut you down. (Photo/ Drew Frye) — Not only is this switch too darn close to the winch, there is a silly wire drink holder near the path of the lines and a person sitting on the bench can easily fall into a running, unguarded, electric winch. Unspeakably dangerous and OSHA would just shut you down. (Photo/ Drew Frye)

A decade ago a woman from Venezuela was hoisting her husband up the mast of their Amel Maramu 54. The winch was electrically powered, built by Lewmar, and became stuck in the on position. In trying to release the rope she became entrapped, losing her hand, part of an arm, and crushing her other hand (later losing fingers). A good Samaritan rushed over, also became entrapped, and lost seven fingers. In the words of one eyewitness, it was as a scene from “an abattoir, with body parts all over the cockpit.” In addition to the winch sticking on, there was also an override, interfering with her efforts to release the halyard. The winch was foot-operated, although this was not thought to be a factor.