Abstract
Inflatable Rescue Boats (IRBs) are arguably the most important rescue tool used by Australian surf lifesavers. Unfortunately, the arduous task of overcoming the powerful ocean waves has resulted in an increasing incidence of injuries to volunteer lifesavers. Thus, a project was undertaken to investigate the biomechanics of injury to explain why the injuries are taking place and to subsequently propose methods of prevention. This unique circumstance was investigated primarily using the mathematical modelling and simulation package, MADYMO. The IRB was successfully modelled in MADYMO after the structural design, the mechanical/material properties and the accelerated movement of the craft were established through in-field and laboratory experimentation. The absorptive foam on the IRB floorboard, the footstrap position and the crewing technique were all investigated using the model. This was a novel application of a mathematical modelling tool originally designed for the analysis of road vehicle accidents that may enable our volunteer lifesavers to operate with a reduced risk of injury.