Water Rescue Training Requirements
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Water Rescue Training Requirements
Construction projects near rivers, canals, reservoirs, and coastal waters must have an adequate water rescue capability on site. Untrained rescuers entering the water to help a casualty frequently become casualties themselves. Proper rescue training, appropriate equipment, and a practised rescue plan are essential. This talk covers the water rescue training requirements for UK construction sites working near water.
- Identify the water rescue training level required based on the site water risk assessment.
- Ensure a minimum number of trained water rescue personnel are on site during every shift.
- Provide training appropriate to the environment: bankside rescue, boat-based, or swift water.
- Practise the water rescue plan on site before work near water begins each season.
- Position rescue equipment including throw bags, lifebuoys, and rescue poles at key water access points.
- Brief all operatives on the location of rescue equipment and the basic response procedure.
- Ensure trained rescue personnel are identifiable and their locations are known during each shift.
- Refresh water rescue training annually and after any changes in the water environment.
- Record all rescue training, equipment checks, and practice drill results in the site safety file.
If someone falls into water, shout for help and throw a lifebuoy or throw bag. Call 999 requesting the fire service water rescue team. Do not enter the water unless you are trained. Keep the casualty in sight and talk to them to maintain calm.
- Never enter the water to attempt a rescue unless you are specifically trained to do so
- Trained water rescue personnel must be on site during every shift near water
- Practise the water rescue plan before work near water begins and at regular intervals
- Know the location of all rescue equipment including throw bags and lifebuoys on your site
- Refresh water rescue training annually and whenever the water environment changes
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