Water Safety Risk Assessment

• Complete a water safety risk assessment for every work area near water.
• Identify all water hazards including hidden features like deep silt or currents.
• Install barriers, fencing, or edge protection to prevent access to water.
• Provide rescue equipment including throw lines, life rings, and reach poles.
• Brief all operatives on the rescue plan and equipment locations.
• Issue personal flotation devices to anyone working within 2 metres of water.
• Monitor weather forecasts and water levels throughout the working day.
• Plan emergency access routes for rescue services to reach the water.
• Review the assessment whenever conditions or water levels change.
• Ensure a trained water rescue person is available when working near water.

• DON'T start work near water without a completed risk assessment.
• DON'T assume shallow water is safe — cold water shock kills in any depth.
• DON'T remove barriers or fencing around water hazards without authorisation.
• DON'T work near water alone without lone working procedures in place.
• DON'T enter the water to attempt a rescue unless trained to do so.
• DON'T ignore rising water levels or changing weather conditions.
• DON'T store rescue equipment where it cannot be reached quickly.
• DON'T rely on swimming ability as a substitute for proper controls.
• DON'T allow unauthorised visitors near water on site.
• DON'T use a generic assessment — tailor it to each specific water hazard.

See also: Drowning Prevention and Water Safety | Personal Flotation Device Use