WAT/General/TBT-WAT-007

Buddy System for Water Proximity Work

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Buddy System for Water Proximity Work

Toolbox Talk Record

Ref: TBT-WAT-007  |  Issue: 1  |  Date: March 2026
PresenterProject
LocationDate

What?

  • The buddy system pairs workers together when working near water to provide immediate emergency response.
  • A person working alone near water who falls in has no one to raise the alarm or deploy rescue equipment.
  • The buddy must maintain visual contact with their partner at all times when near water hazards.
  • Both buddies must be trained in the use of rescue equipment including throw lines and life rings.
  • The buddy system is a control measure identified in the water safety risk assessment.
  • It is required when work takes place within 2 metres of an unprotected water edge.
  • The buddy does not enter the water to rescue — they deploy equipment and raise the alarm.
  • Communication between buddies must be maintained even when carrying out separate tasks nearby.
  • The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 require effective arrangements for water proximity work.
  • If one buddy leaves the area, the other must stop work near water until the system is restored.

Why?

Immediate rescueA lone worker who falls into water may drown before anyone notices.
Alarm raisingThe buddy raises the alarm and deploys rescue equipment within seconds of an incident.
Legal dutyMHSWR requires suitable arrangements for workers near water — the buddy system fulfils this.
Cold water shockIn UK waters, incapacitation from cold shock happens in seconds — immediate response is essential.
Do Don't
  • Pair up with a designated buddy before starting any work near water.
  • Maintain visual contact with your buddy at all times when near water.
  • Know the location of the nearest rescue equipment before you start work.
  • Both buddies must be trained in throw line and life ring deployment.
  • Agree a communication method with your buddy for the duration of the task.
  • Stop work near water immediately if your buddy leaves the area.
  • Wear a personal flotation device as additional protection near water.
  • Brief each other on the emergency procedure and rescue plan for the location.
  • Report to your supervisor if the buddy system cannot be maintained.
  • Check that rescue equipment is present and accessible before starting work.
  • DON'T work near unprotected water edges without a buddy in visual contact.
  • DON'T allow your buddy to leave without stopping your work near water.
  • DON'T enter the water to rescue your buddy — use throw lines and life rings.
  • DON'T work as buddies if neither of you knows how to use rescue equipment.
  • DON'T treat the buddy system as optional — it is a required safety control.
  • DON'T lose visual contact with your buddy by moving to a different area.
  • DON'T assume your buddy can swim — cold water incapacitates even strong swimmers.
  • DON'T position yourself and your buddy where you could both fall in together.
  • DON'T rely on the buddy system alone — wear a PFD as additional protection.
  • DON'T work near water at night without enhanced lighting and communication.

See also: Drowning Prevention and Water Safety | Water Safety Risk Assessment
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