Reach new heights on a boat with a bosun chair

The origins of the chair

Dating back to the 1700s, the Bosun’s Chair was created for sailors to use while working on ships. As the maintenance-focused boatswain (more commonly known as a bosun) was responsible for various tasks such as caulking and patching below and above the deck, this chair was aptly named after them.

Nowadays, people who need to navigate different levels of their vessels can utilise this type of chair to access them safely and securely.

Types of bosun chairs

There are two Bosun chairs to choose from: rigid and flexible. Rigid models feature lightweight metal frames with adjustable legs that allow them to stand upright when not in use and built-in footrests for added comfort.

Flexible chairs are usually made from strong nylon webbing or similar materials and include adjustable straps for a secure fit. Both offer great support and freedom of movement in all directions.

When deciding which type is best for you, it is important to consider weight capacity, stability, and other features like foam pads for comfort, padded armrests, shock-absorbing materials to reduce slippage while working at high levels, and adjustable straps that can fit any size user for extra security.

Traditional wooden chairs provide further stability due to their heavier construction and sturdier materials, whereas modern steel and aluminium chairs offer both portability and lighter weight.

When should I use It? 

There are several situations in which using a Bosun’s chair can be invaluable. As well as being useful for performing routine maintenance and repairs on boats while docked, it provides a safe way to get a better view of the horizon while sailing without climbing up the mast. This is especially important as climbing onto masts can be hazardous if not done with great caution.

Additionally, they can help provide stability for jobs such as varnishing, polishing or caulking around the deck area, ensuring that you do not lose your balance at any point during the task.

Using a bosun chair safely

When using any rigging or safety equipment, it is essential to ensure that it is securely fastened before getting into it. All lines should be inspected and double-checked for knots that have been correctly tied, with no loose ends hanging from the ropes or blocks (pulleys). It is also essential to wear protective gear such as safety glasses and gloves when working with any rope or pulley.

Ensuring the Bosun’s chair is adequately secure before using it is critical to prevent falls or other injuries. Ensure all buckles are tightened, straps are secured and adjusted correctly, and each line has been tested for strength and durability. Also, check the environment around you for any obstructions that could affect your movement while in the chair.

Benefits of using a bosun’s chair

The primary benefit of using a Bosun’s chair is increased safety when performing tasks at height on your boat, compared to traditional ladders or platforms, which often lack adequate safety features such as handholds and rails making them more prone to slips and falls. This can result in serious injuries or even fatalities depending on the environment.

In addition to improved safety, using a Bosun chair has other advantages. It eliminates the need for carrying multiple ladders up and down, as all tools can be brought straight to the seat for convenience. Furthermore, these chairs are much cheaper than buying several ladders for one job, leading to cost savings.

Beyond the safety and financial aspect, many users find that having a platform allowing easy movement within the workspace provides greater efficiency than other elevated platforms, as there is no need to climb down ladders during one task constantly.

Bosun’s chairs also offer additional benefits, such as greater visibility while working and distributing weight evenly throughout the body, reducing muscle strain.

Tips for choosing the right bosuns chair

When choosing which Bosun chair will best meet your requirements, certain aspects must be considered. The chair should have adjustable straps for different body sizes and supporting footrests for added safety. It is also essential to check the material used – durable materials such as steel are preferable over plastic.

Also, please ensure that the maximum weight capacity suits your needs, investigate any warranties offered by manufacturers and compare prices between different vendors online. 

Finally, please look at reviews by previous customers to ensure that the product quality matches its price tag before making a final decision.

Conclusion

Investing in a Bosun’s chair can save money and time while removing the risks associated with traditional ladders and scaffolds. Proper use and maintenance of your chair can ensure that you can perform essential tasks on your boat or yacht safely and securely.

When performing jobs at higher altitudes, please remember to double-check all lines before getting into the rig and wear protective gear such as gloves and safety glasses when handling ropes or pulleys. With these measures in place, you can be sure to reach new heights with confidence!