After boarding a raft, where should personnel position themselves?

Personnel should position themselves in the same general area as the others when boarding a raft to ensure stability and balance. Grouping together prevents the raft from tipping or becoming unbalanced, which is especially critical in turbulent water conditions. By clustering together, crew members can maintain a low center of gravity and effectively distribute their weight across the raft, enhancing safety and preventing capsizing.

Positioning towards the center also allows for better communication and coordination among the team, which is vital in emergency situations. This ensures that all personnel are within reach of one another and can assist each other effectively, facilitating organized movement and support. This practice is also in line with safety protocols that underscore the importance of teamwork in maritime operations.