• Complete a site-specific risk assessment for each dam inspection access route
• Wear a personal flotation device when inspecting near deep water or on embankments
• Treat valve towers and outlet chambers as confined spaces with permits and gas monitoring
• Carry communication equipment that works in the remote dam location
• Use appropriate footwear with good grip for steep, wet embankment slopes
• Check ecological constraints before accessing areas with nesting birds or protected species
• Inform someone of your inspection route, locations, and expected return time
• Position rescue equipment at spillway and stilling basin access points
• Use drones or boats for upstream face inspection where walking access is hazardous
• Record all inspection findings and access conditions for the dam safety file

• DON'T access dam structures alone without informing someone of your plan and timing
• DON'T enter valve towers or outlet chambers without confined space procedures in place
• DON'T walk near deep water on dam structures without a personal flotation device
• DON'T descend steep embankment slopes without assessing the ground stability first
• DON'T ignore overgrown access paths — clear vegetation or find an alternative route
• DON'T inspect spillway channels without checking for standing water and flow conditions
• DON'T carry out inspections during severe weather that makes slopes and structures dangerous
• DON'T enter areas with nesting birds or protected species without ecological clearance
• DON'T rely on mobile phone signal in remote dam locations — carry a satellite phone or radio
• DON'T skip the risk assessment because you have visited the dam site before

See also: Dam and Reservoir Safety Awareness | Lone Working Risk Assessment