ACC/Specific/TBT-ACC-009

Access Over Water Crossings

Access & Temporary Structures › Specific › Access Over Water Crossings

Presenter		Project
Location		Date

Temporary access over water crossings includes bridges, platforms, pontoons, and boardwalks over rivers and channels.
These structures must be designed to carry the intended loads including personnel, materials, and plant.
Drowning is the primary risk if the crossing fails, is overloaded, or lacks adequate edge protection.
Guardrails and toe boards are required on both sides of any temporary crossing over water.
The crossing surface must be non-slip and maintained free of mud, ice, and debris at all times.
Temporary bridges may require Environment Agency consent if spanning a main river or watercourse.
Vehicle crossings require structural design for the heaviest axle load and dynamic loading from traffic.
Personal flotation devices should be worn when using temporary crossings over deep or fast-flowing water.
The temporary works coordinator must approve and register all designed access crossings over water.
CDM 2015, the Work at Height Regulations 2005, and temporary works procedures all apply.

Prevent drowning	Collapse or overloading of temporary water crossings plunges workers into water where drowning occurs within minutes.
Structural failure	Underdesigned crossings fail under load, particularly when vehicles heavier than the design assumptions use them.
Legal compliance	CDM 2015 requires safe access, and temporary crossings over water need designed solutions with TWC approval.

Don't

DON'T use a temporary water crossing that has not been formally designed and approved.
DON'T drive vehicles over crossings not designed for the vehicle axle weight.
DON'T cross over water without guardrails on both sides of the walkway.
DON'T allow mud, ice, or debris to build up on the crossing surface.
DON'T remove rescue equipment from the ends of the water crossing.
DON'T exceed the displayed safe working load for any temporary crossing.
DON'T use the crossing during flood conditions without reassessing its stability.
DON'T cross fast-flowing water without wearing a personal flotation device.
DON'T modify the crossing structure without temporary works coordinator approval.
DON'T assume the crossing is safe after storms without inspecting it first.

See also: Temporary Access Safety Awareness | Working Over Water

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