Scaffolding erected over water, rivers, canals, or flooded areas introduces drowning hazards in addition to the standard scaffold risks. Foundations may be unstable, platforms become slippery, and a fall from the scaffold could result in landing in deep water. This talk covers the additional controls required when scaffolding is erected over or adjacent to water and wet areas on construction sites.
Key Hazards
Drowning after falling from scaffold into water below the working platform
Scaffold foundation instability from waterlogged or submerged ground conditions
Slippery platforms and access routes from water spray, rain, or condensation
Rescue difficulties from water below making recovery of a fallen worker complex
Control Measures
Ensure scaffold foundations are designed for the waterlogged or submerged ground conditions present.
Install full edge protection including guardrails, mid-rails, and toe boards on all platforms over water.
Provide personal flotation devices for all workers accessing scaffold erected over open water.
Position lifebuoys and throw lines within reach of all working platforms over the water.
Apply anti-slip treatments or mesh panels to scaffold boards on platforms exposed to water spray.
Prepare a water rescue plan specific to the scaffold location before erection begins.
Inspect scaffold foundations for scour, undermining, or settlement caused by water movement.
Brief all users on the rescue plan and the location of lifebuoys before accessing the scaffold.
Increase the inspection frequency during periods of heavy rain, flooding, or rising water levels.
Emergency / Rescue
If a worker falls from scaffold into water, throw a lifebuoy immediately and raise the alarm. Do not jump in after them. Call 999 and deploy the rescue boat or trained water rescue team if available.
Remember
Scaffold foundations over water must be designed for the specific waterlogged ground conditions
Personal flotation devices are required for all workers on scaffold erected over open water
Lifebuoys and throw lines must be positioned within reach of every working platform over water
A water rescue plan must be prepared before scaffold erection over water begins
Increase inspection frequency during heavy rain, flooding, or periods of rising water levels
Applicable Legislation: Work at Height Regulations 2005 · CDM Regulations 2015 · TG20:21 (NASC Guidance) · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974