Working near water on construction sites presents a serious drowning risk. Open water, deep excavations with groundwater, rivers, canals, and process tanks are all potentially fatal. Cold water shock can incapacitate a person in seconds, making self-rescue impossible. Proper planning, barriers, and rescue equipment are essential wherever work takes place near water.
Key Hazards
Drowning after falling into open water or flooded excavations
Cold water shock causing incapacitation within seconds of immersion
Strong currents pulling workers under in rivers and tidal areas
Contaminated water causing illness if swallowed during immersion
Control Measures
Install edge protection and barriers around all open water and flooded excavations on site.
Provide personal flotation devices to all workers within two metres of open water.
Position rescue equipment including throw lines and lifebuoys at regular intervals near water.
Ensure at least two trained water rescue operatives are present when working over water.
Conduct a specific water safety risk assessment before any work near water commences.
Brief all workers on water hazard locations during site induction and display warning signage.
Implement a buddy system so no one works alone near water at any time.
Monitor water levels, flow rates, and weather conditions throughout the working day.
Restrict access to water-adjacent areas to only those workers with a specific task there.
Emergency / Rescue
If someone falls into water, shout for help and throw a lifebuoy or line immediately. Do not enter the water unless trained and equipped. Call 999 and guide emergency services to the exact location.
Remember
Drowning can happen in less than 60 seconds, even for strong swimmers.
Cold water shock causes involuntary gasping which leads to inhaling water rapidly.
Always wear your personal flotation device when working within two metres of water.
Know where the nearest rescue equipment is located before you start work each day.
Never attempt a water rescue unless you are properly trained and equipped to do so.
Report any missing barriers, damaged rescue equipment, or rising water levels immediately.
Applicable Legislation: CDM Regulations 2015 · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 · Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999