How long should the lifeline attached to the life buoy be?

The optimal length for a lifeline attached to a life buoy is determined by the need to ensure effective rescue operations while considering the potential height from which a person may fall into the water. The requirement that the lifeline be twice the height from the location of the life buoy to the waterline, or at least 30 meters (100 feet), whichever is greater, ensures that there is sufficient length for the lifebuoy to reach anyone in the water safely.

This consideration not only accounts for the distance from the buoy to the water surface but also adds extra length for factors such as waves and the buoy's movement in turbulent conditions. In situations where the height is significant, the requirement of twice the height helps to guarantee that individuals have enough lifeline to grasp onto the buoy and pull themselves back to safety.

Choosing a lifeline that follows this criterion ensures that it meets safety standards and effectively accommodates various circumstances that might be encountered during emergencies at sea.