DAM/Specific/TBT-DAM-012

River Bank Reinforcement

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River Bank Reinforcement

Toolbox Talk Record

Ref: TBT-DAM-012  |  Issue: 1  |  Date: March 2026
PresenterProject
LocationDate

What?

  • River bank reinforcement protects banks from erosion using techniques such as gabions, sheet piling, and revetments.
  • Work takes place at or near the water's edge, creating constant drowning and slip hazards.
  • Water levels in rivers can rise rapidly due to upstream rainfall, even when local weather is dry.
  • Soft and waterlogged ground near river banks may not support plant without temporary ground improvement.
  • Environmental permits from the Environment Agency are required for all works affecting river banks.
  • Ecological surveys may be needed for protected species such as water voles, otters, and kingfishers.
  • Access to river bank work sites is often restricted, requiring temporary haul roads or pontoon access.
  • Plant working near the water's edge must be assessed for stability and overturning risk.
  • Workers near the river must wear personal flotation devices and have rescue equipment available.
  • Flood warnings must be monitored throughout the works with agreed trigger levels for evacuation.

Why?

Drowning riskWorking at the water's edge in wet and slippery conditions creates a constant and serious drowning hazard.
Environmental lawUnauthorised works affecting river banks or habitats can result in prosecution by the Environment Agency.
Ground instabilitySaturated river bank soils are inherently unstable and can collapse into the water without warning.
Do Don't
  • Wear a personal flotation device at all times when near the water's edge
  • Monitor river levels and weather forecasts throughout the working day
  • Ensure rescue equipment including throw lines and lifebuoys is available on site
  • Obtain all required environmental permits before starting any bank works
  • Assess ground conditions before positioning plant near the river bank
  • Install temporary edge protection where workers operate near the water
  • Brief the team on flood warning triggers and the evacuation procedure
  • Complete ecological surveys and comply with protected species restrictions
  • Plan safe access routes to the work area avoiding unstable ground
  • Maintain a buddy system so no one works alone at the water's edge
  • DON'T work at the river bank without wearing a personal flotation device
  • DON'T ignore rising water levels — evacuate to higher ground immediately
  • DON'T position heavy plant on soft ground near the river bank edge
  • DON'T start work without the required Environment Agency permits in place
  • DON'T disturb protected species or their habitats without ecological clearance
  • DON'T work alone at the river bank at any time during the project
  • DON'T rely on fair local weather — upstream rain raises river levels quickly
  • DON'T enter the river or wade through water without a specific risk assessment
  • DON'T stockpile materials where they could be washed away by rising water
  • DON'T obstruct the river channel in a way that could increase flood risk

See also: Flood Defence Construction Safety | Working Near Open Water
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