Flood Wall Construction Safety
Dams, Reservoirs & Flood Defence › General › Flood Wall Construction Safety
Flood Wall Construction Safety
Flood wall construction takes place alongside rivers, estuaries, and coastal areas where tidal and flood conditions can change rapidly. The work involves deep foundations, heavy concrete placement, and working near open water in locations that may flood with little warning. This talk covers the specific hazards of flood wall construction and the controls that protect every operative working on flood defence schemes.
- Monitor river levels and tidal forecasts continuously and set trigger levels for evacuation.
- Wear an auto-inflating personal flotation device when working within two metres of the water edge.
- Install edge protection along the river bank and around all open excavations near the water.
- Position lifebuoys and throw lines at regular intervals along the working bank edge.
- Assess bank stability before positioning plant or stockpiling materials near the water's edge.
- Ensure a flood response plan is in place with clear evacuation routes and assembly points.
- Brief all operatives on the flood warning signals, evacuation triggers, and escape routes each shift.
- Provide safe access down river banks using steps, ramps, or ladders rather than climbing slopes.
- Coordinate concrete pours with tidal windows to avoid work being interrupted by rising water.
If flood warnings are received or water levels reach the trigger point, evacuate all personnel from the work area immediately using the designated escape routes. Call 999 if anyone is trapped or in the water.
- Monitor river levels and tidal forecasts continuously and know the evacuation trigger levels
- Wear an auto-inflating PFD within two metres of the water edge at all times during construction
- Lifebuoys and throw lines must be positioned along the working bank at regular intervals
- A flood response plan with clear evacuation routes and assembly points must be in place
- Coordinate concrete pours with tidal windows to prevent interruption by rising water levels
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