When working near open water, rivers, canals, or process tanks, a buddy system ensures that no operative is ever left alone and that someone is always ready to raise the alarm if a person falls in. Drowning can happen in seconds, and a lone worker who falls into water may have no one to call for help. This talk explains how the buddy system works and the responsibilities of each person involved.
Key Hazards
Lone workers drowning after falling into water with nobody to raise the alarm
Delayed rescue response because no witness saw the person enter the water
Hypothermia reducing a casualty's ability to self-rescue in cold water
Buddy losing visual contact allowing unnoticed entry into water hazard zones
Control Measures
Assign a named buddy pair for every task carried out within two metres of open water.
Ensure both buddies maintain continuous visual contact with each other at all times during the task.
Brief both buddies on the rescue plan, the location of rescue equipment, and the emergency procedure.
Ensure both buddies wear automatically inflating personal flotation devices throughout the work.
Position rescue equipment including a lifebuoy and throw line within immediate reach of the work area.
Never allow a buddy to work alone while the other takes a break or leaves the area temporarily.
Rotate buddy pairs on extended shifts to prevent fatigue reducing vigilance near the water.
Record buddy pair assignments on the daily task briefing sheet and check compliance throughout the shift.
Emergency / Rescue
If your buddy falls into the water, shout for help and throw the nearest lifebuoy or rescue line immediately. Call 999 and raise the site alarm. Do not enter the water yourself unless trained and equipped to do so.
Remember
No one should ever work alone within two metres of open water on a construction site
Both buddies must maintain continuous visual contact throughout the entire work period
Both buddies must know the rescue plan and the location of all nearby rescue equipment
Auto-inflating personal flotation devices must be worn by both buddies at all times
Never enter the water to rescue someone unless you are trained and properly equipped
Applicable Legislation: CDM Regulations 2015 · Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974