The Special Regulations for snap hooks on safety lines and tethers have been amended allowing boat owners more time to effect the change phasing out the flat plate type.

Boat owners and sailors can now change their safety lines and tethers to those with snap hooks with a metallic moulded hook with side-wall support as the equipment is replaced through age or wear and tear, rather than by the 1 July 2023 date. This will gradually phase out the weaker flat plate snap hooks.

Special Regulation 5.02.1(c) for categories 1, 2, 3 and 4 races now states “The safety line shall have a snap hook at each end. All new safety lines shall use snap hooks that are metallic with cast, forged or moulded side-wall support. New safety lines shall not use stainless steel plate type snap hooks.”

An example of a tether with snap hooks that are metallic with cast, forged or moulded side wall support.

Special Regulation 5.02.1(e) which stated “From 1 July 2023 safety lines shall no longer use stainless steel plate type snap hooks and must be a metallic moulded hook with side-wall support” has been deleted.

Ultimately, the safety position is still the same. Flat plate snap hooks still carry a higher risk of deformation and failure, and boat owners and sailors are now encouraged to make the change as soon as possible. The change, however, may now be made when the boat or sailor upgrades or renews their safety equipment.

Past advice has been given here and here explaining the risks concerning flat plate snap hooks. The Marine Accident Investigation Branch in the United Kingdom have advised here that "When loaded longitudinally, the tether can withstand a load of over 1 tonne. However, when loaded laterally a tether hook will deform at much less load. It is important that tether hooks remain clear of obstructions and are free to rotate to align the load longitudinally." 

Boat owners, sailors, clubs and Equipment Auditors are reminded though, that a snap shackle is not a snap hook. Australian Sailing's Special Regulations have, since 1997, required safety lines and tethers to be fitted with snap hooks. World Sailing hold the same position, requiring safety lines to be fitted with “self-closing hooks”. An interpretation was issued by Australian Sailing and published here reiterating the mandatory carriage of tethers with snap hooks.

The amendment concerning safety lines and tethers can be viewed here.
To view the Special Regulations, click here.

For more information, please contact Glen Stanaway.