For Paul-Henri Dubreuil, president of the Dubreuil group, the boat’s sponsor, it was not a question of having his sailor sail around the world without significant changes in terms of safety. The two ergonomic seats, modeled on Sébastien’s body, equipped with seat belts and mounted on shock absorbers to absorb the vertical shocks of the monocoque, replaced the folding seats. This allows the muscles to relax.
Interview: Enhancing Safety and Ergonomics in Ocean Racing
Editor: Today, we are thrilled to have Paul-Henri Dubreuil, the president of the Dubreuil Group, with us. He has spearheaded innovative changes in ocean racing by focusing on safety and ergonomics for sailors. Welcome, Paul-Henri!
Paul-Henri Dubreuil: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to discuss the advancements we’ve made in the sailing industry.
Editor: Let’s dive right in. You mentioned the need for significant changes in terms of safety for sailors tackling the challenges of the ocean. Can you elaborate on those changes?
Paul-Henri Dubreuil: Absolutely. We recognized that for sailors like Sébastien to safely navigate around the world, their seating and overall ergonomic setup needed to improve. We’ve replaced traditional folding seats with two ergonomically designed seats that are modeled on Sébastien’s body. This customization enhances comfort and security, allowing sailors to focus on their performance rather than their physical discomfort.
Editor: That sounds like a game changer! What specific features do these new seats offer that improve safety and comfort during such intense voyages?
Paul-Henri Dubreuil: The new seats are equipped with seat belts, which are crucial for preventing injuries during unpredictable conditions at sea. Additionally, they are mounted on shock absorbers to help absorb vertical shocks from the monocoque. This reduces strain on the body, allowing the muscles to relax, which is vital during long races where fatigue can be a major issue.
Editor: It sounds like these innovations were designed with both safety and performance in mind. How do you see these ergonomic advancements impacting the future of the sailing industry?
Paul-Henri Dubreuil: We are at a pivotal moment in sailing. As the sport evolves, so do the technologies that support it. By prioritizing safety and comfort, we not only protect our sailors but also enhance their ability to perform at their best. These advancements can set new industry standards and encourage other sponsors and teams to invest in similar innovations.
Editor: That’s an important perspective. For aspiring sailors or teams looking to enhance their ships, what practical advice can you offer when it comes to selecting ergonomic solutions?
Paul-Henri Dubreuil: The key is to understand the specific needs of the sailor and the conditions they will face. Customization is essential—ergonomics is not one-size-fits-all. Evaluate features like adjustable seating positions, shock absorption capabilities, and secure harness systems. Collaborating with experts in ergonomics and safety can also help you make informed decisions that improve both comfort and performance.
Editor: Thank you, Paul-Henri. It’s clear that your commitment to enhancing sailor safety and ergonomics is paving the way for a new era in ocean racing. We appreciate the insights you’ve shared today!
Paul-Henri Dubreuil: Thank you! It’s been a pleasure discussing these pivotal changes. I hope we can inspire more innovation within the sailing community.
Editor: We certainly believe so! Stay tuned for more updates on the latest trends and insights in the sailing industry.
