Your Thoughts on Kill and/or EStop Switches

[76SeaRay]

I am about to order a replacement custom panel to build up my new instrument console at the helm. So, I need to show the holes in the panel needed for switches etc.. My original panel (76 Sea Ray) did not have either a Kill Switch (with lanyard) or and EStop switch. The boat is a 22 foot and the helm is just inside the hardtop cabin (Engine is 5.7l and drive is Alpha One). Is it typical to use either of these switches on larger boats (as opposed to open runabouts, outboards, etc.) or just have the ignition switch only?

Thanks......

 

[alldodge]

There is probably an exact spec somewhere but maybe look at it like this;
If a wave could bounce you out of the boat, then it probably needs a kill switch (KS). My 27FT cruiser has high sides and no KS. My 23FT runabout with lower sides has a KS

 

[76SeaRay]

Sounds like mine is somewhat in the middle, that is, 22 foot with high sides and cabin... I wonder if there is a Coast Guard reg on it????

 

[dingbat]

Congress passed the Frank Lobiondo Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2018, which includes a provision requiring boat and engine manufacturers, distributors and dealers to install engine cutoff switches on new boats “less than 26 feet overall in length and capable of developing 115 pounds or more of static thrust.”

What happens if you fall out of the boat while tending fishing lines?

I installed a wireless system a few years ago for just such a scenrio

 

[76SeaRay]

Well, I was leaning that way already but also want to be in compliance. I assume the reg means Man Over Board kill switch versus EStop cutoff switch. I guess the MOB kill switch is also an EStop switch (fuel spills and the like, normally a palm switch) by just jerking the lanyard out.. Think I will look at the wireless kind..