Construction work on quays, jetties, and wharves puts operatives at risk of drowning, being struck by vessels, and working on structures exposed to tidal and weather conditions. Edge protection may be limited, surfaces are often wet and slippery, and rescue from water can be extremely difficult. This talk covers the hazards specific to quayside working and the controls required to keep everyone safe.
Key Hazards
Drowning after falling from quay edges into deep or tidal water
Slips on wet, algae-covered, or oil-contaminated quayside surfaces
Crushing between vessels and quay walls during berthing or mooring
Exposure to severe weather and wave action on open waterfront structures
Control Measures
Install edge protection along all working edges of quays, jetties, and wharves where practicable.
Wear an automatically inflating personal flotation device whenever working within two metres of the water edge.
Ensure rescue equipment including lifebuoys and throw lines is stationed at intervals along the quayside.
Brief all operatives on the location of rescue equipment and the man overboard response procedure.
Keep walkways and working surfaces clear of algae, oil, and debris to reduce slip hazards.
Establish exclusion zones during vessel berthing and mooring operations to prevent crush injuries.
Monitor weather and tidal conditions and cease work when conditions exceed safe working limits.
Ensure a rescue boat or trained water rescue team is available when working over deep or tidal water.
Use non-slip footwear rated for wet marine conditions on all quayside work activities.
Emergency / Rescue
If a person falls into the water, raise the man overboard alarm immediately. Throw a lifebuoy or rescue line to the casualty. Do not jump in after them. Call 999 and deploy the rescue boat or trained water rescue team.
Remember
Wear an auto-inflating personal flotation device within two metres of any water edge
Lifebuoys and throw lines must be stationed at regular intervals along the quayside
Know the man overboard procedure and the location of all rescue equipment on site
Never position yourself between a berthing vessel and the quay wall structure
Weather and tidal conditions must be monitored and work stopped when limits are exceeded
Applicable Legislation: CDM Regulations 2015 · Docks Regulations 1988 · Work at Height Regulations 2005 · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974