Buddy System for Water Proximity Work

• Pair up with a designated buddy before starting any work near water.
• Maintain visual contact with your buddy at all times when near water.
• Know the location of the nearest rescue equipment before you start work.
• Both buddies must be trained in throw line and life ring deployment.
• Agree a communication method with your buddy for the duration of the task.
• Stop work near water immediately if your buddy leaves the area.
• Wear a personal flotation device as additional protection near water.
• Brief each other on the emergency procedure and rescue plan for the location.
• Report to your supervisor if the buddy system cannot be maintained.
• Check that rescue equipment is present and accessible before starting work.

• DON'T work near unprotected water edges without a buddy in visual contact.
• DON'T allow your buddy to leave without stopping your work near water.
• DON'T enter the water to rescue your buddy — use throw lines and life rings.
• DON'T work as buddies if neither of you knows how to use rescue equipment.
• DON'T treat the buddy system as optional — it is a required safety control.
• DON'T lose visual contact with your buddy by moving to a different area.
• DON'T assume your buddy can swim — cold water incapacitates even strong swimmers.
• DON'T position yourself and your buddy where you could both fall in together.
• DON'T rely on the buddy system alone — wear a PFD as additional protection.
• DON'T work near water at night without enhanced lighting and communication.

See also: Drowning Prevention and Water Safety | Water Safety Risk Assessment