• Complete a water safety risk assessment before starting works near water.
• Provide life rings, throw lines, and rescue equipment at water-side work areas.
• Issue personal flotation devices to everyone within 2 metres of water.
• Design and install excavation support appropriate for the ground conditions.
• Monitor water levels and have a flood warning and evacuation procedure ready.
• Follow environmental permit conditions for working near watercourses.
• Plan concrete pours to achieve watertight construction to specification.
• Brief all operatives on the rescue plan for their specific location.
• Maintain partial flood protection during phased construction where required.
• Inspect excavation support and dewatering at the start of each shift.

• DON'T work near water without a water safety risk assessment in place.
• DON'T enter the water to attempt a rescue unless trained to do so.
• DON'T excavate near watercourses without confirmed ground support systems.
• DON'T ignore rising water levels or flood warnings — evacuate immediately.
• DON'T discharge dewatering water into watercourses without a permit.
• DON'T remove rescue equipment or barriers from water-side work areas.
• DON'T work alone near water without lone working procedures active.
• DON'T store materials where they could be washed into the watercourse.
• DON'T compromise temporary flood protection during construction phasing.
• DON'T proceed with concrete pours if water ingress is not controlled.

See also: Flood Defence Construction Safety | Drowning Prevention and Water Safety