- Wear a personal flotation device at all times when near the water's edge
- Monitor river levels and weather forecasts throughout the working day
- Ensure rescue equipment including throw lines and lifebuoys is available on site
- Obtain all required environmental permits before starting any bank works
- Assess ground conditions before positioning plant near the river bank
- Install temporary edge protection where workers operate near the water
- Brief the team on flood warning triggers and the evacuation procedure
- Complete ecological surveys and comply with protected species restrictions
- Plan safe access routes to the work area avoiding unstable ground
- Maintain a buddy system so no one works alone at the water's edge
|
- DON'T work at the river bank without wearing a personal flotation device
- DON'T ignore rising water levels — evacuate to higher ground immediately
- DON'T position heavy plant on soft ground near the river bank edge
- DON'T start work without the required Environment Agency permits in place
- DON'T disturb protected species or their habitats without ecological clearance
- DON'T work alone at the river bank at any time during the project
- DON'T rely on fair local weather — upstream rain raises river levels quickly
- DON'T enter the river or wade through water without a specific risk assessment
- DON'T stockpile materials where they could be washed away by rising water
- DON'T obstruct the river channel in a way that could increase flood risk
See also: Flood Defence Construction Safety | Working Near Open Water
|