Buddy System for Water Proximity Work
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Buddy System for Water Proximity Work
When working near open water, rivers, canals, or process tanks, a buddy system ensures that no operative is ever left alone and that someone is always ready to raise the alarm if a person falls in. Drowning can happen in seconds, and a lone worker who falls into water may have no one to call for help. This talk explains how the buddy system works and the responsibilities of each person involved.
- Assign a named buddy pair for every task carried out within two metres of open water.
- Ensure both buddies maintain continuous visual contact with each other at all times during the task.
- Brief both buddies on the rescue plan, the location of rescue equipment, and the emergency procedure.
- Ensure both buddies wear automatically inflating personal flotation devices throughout the work.
- Position rescue equipment including a lifebuoy and throw line within immediate reach of the work area.
- Never allow a buddy to work alone while the other takes a break or leaves the area temporarily.
- Rotate buddy pairs on extended shifts to prevent fatigue reducing vigilance near the water.
- Record buddy pair assignments on the daily task briefing sheet and check compliance throughout the shift.
If your buddy falls into the water, shout for help and throw the nearest lifebuoy or rescue line immediately. Call 999 and raise the site alarm. Do not enter the water yourself unless trained and equipped to do so.
- No one should ever work alone within two metres of open water on a construction site
- Both buddies must maintain continuous visual contact throughout the entire work period
- Both buddies must know the rescue plan and the location of all nearby rescue equipment
- Auto-inflating personal flotation devices must be worn by both buddies at all times
- Never enter the water to rescue someone unless you are trained and properly equipped
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