Lifelines are used as a precautionary measure to yes"> aid in the rescue of persons wearing rescue breathing apparatus, hose masks, or similar equipment. Rescue, if necessary should be accomplished by having another person equipped with a breathing apparatus follow the lifeline to the person being rescued, rather than by attempting to drag the person out. Attempts to drag a person from a space may result in fouling the lifeline on some obstruction or in parting the harness, in which case it would still be necessary to send a rescue person into the space.

An important point to remember is that a stricken person must never be hauled by a lifeline attached to the waist. The victim may be dragged along the deck a short distance, but his weight must never be suspended on a line attached to the waist. If not wearing a harness of some kind, pass the line around the chest under the armpits and fasten it in front or in back.

When tending a lifeline, you must wear gloves to be able to handle the line properly. Play out the line carefully to keep it from fouling. Try to keep the lifeline in contact with grounded metal; do not allow it to come in contact with any energized electrical equipment.

Detection Devices
The detection devices used to test the atmosphere in closed or poorly ventilated spaces include the oxygen indicator, for detecting oxygen deficiency; combustible-gas indicators, for determining the concentration of explosive vapors; and toxic-gas indicators, such as the carbon monoxide indicator, for finding the concentration of certain poisonous gases. The devices are extremely valuable and should be used whenever necessary. However, they MUST BE USED ONLY AS DIRECTED. Improper operation of these devices may lead to false assurances of safety or, worse yet, to an increase in the actual danger of the situation. For example, the use of a flame safety lamp in a compartment filled with acetylene or hydrogen could cause a violent explosion.