ACC/Specific/TBT-ACC-009

Access Over Water Crossings

Access & Temporary Structures › Specific › Access Over Water Crossings

All Categories/Access & Temporary Structures/Specific/Access Over Water Crossings

Access Over Water Crossings

Toolbox Talk Record

Ref: TBT-ACC-009  |  Issue: 1  |  Date: March 2026
PresenterProject
LocationDate

What?

  • 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.

Why?

Prevent drowningCollapse or overloading of temporary water crossings plunges workers into water where drowning occurs within minutes.
Structural failureUnderdesigned crossings fail under load, particularly when vehicles heavier than the design assumptions use them.
Legal complianceCDM 2015 requires safe access, and temporary crossings over water need designed solutions with TWC approval.
Do Don't
  • Ensure temporary crossings are designed for the actual loads they will carry.
  • Install guardrails and toe boards on both sides of every water crossing.
  • Maintain the crossing surface clean, non-slip, and free of ice and debris.
  • Register the crossing in the temporary works register with TWC approval.
  • Wear a personal flotation device when crossing deep or fast-flowing water.
  • Inspect the crossing daily and after heavy rain or high water events.
  • Obtain Environment Agency consent if the crossing spans a main river.
  • Display the safe working load for any crossing used by vehicles or plant.
  • Position rescue equipment including throw lines at both ends of the crossing.
  • Brief all users on the crossing load limits and emergency procedures.
  • 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
ebrora.com

RAMS Builder

Generate professional Risk Assessment and Method Statements in minutes. 10 document formats, site-specific content, instant Word download.

Learn More