Sorry, I should clarify. I was referrring to winching (or hoisting) from aboard a yacht that can be dangerous. With regard to getting caught up in mast cables etc. I wasnt referring to winching in general, and yes your right, the fact they these guys practice it regularly, helps ensure that when they do it for real in poor weather conditions, on high seas, that its a safe as they can make it.
Regards
Gus