Hazard analysis of a yacht designed for people with disabilities

Introduction: In connection with the design of a seaworthy yacht for persons with disabilities, authors conduct a risk analysis and consider the safety aspects arising from these risks. In the context of tourism and recreation for people with disabilities, this represents a new issue in the literature. Aim: The aim of the analysis was a multi-aspect evaluation of the hazards that occur when sailors with disabilities carry out typical activities on a yacht. The recommendations arising from the conducted research were used when designing the structure of a staysail schooner intended to be sailed by people with disabilities. Methods: Two methods of risk analysis were adopted. A preliminary hazard analysis (PHA) was carried out with the purpose of identifying and evaluating the possibility of people with various types of disabilities carrying out activities on a yacht. A process hazard analysis (PRHA) was based on a four-degree structure of functions with 31 component operations, relating to both sailing and living on a yacht. This methodology was used by the authors in sailing for the first time when the yacht’s equipment was designed for persons with disabilities. Results: The evaluation covered the adaptation of the yacht for sailing by people with disabilities and considered the various functions that would need to be carried out by these people. A PRHA matrix was created, consisting of 1,116 fields. Authors found that safe execution of many of the relevant functions by people with various types of disabilities was indicated. Conclusions: Based on the results of the PRHA, a set of new guidelines was created for permanent and temporary adaptations of a yacht in the context of the degrees and causes of disabilities.