Working Over or Adjacent to Water
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Working Over or Adjacent to Water
Working over or adjacent to water presents a significant drowning risk that must be specifically assessed and controlled. This includes work on bridges over rivers, construction near canals, work on river banks, and activities around open process tanks. A person who falls into water can drown within 60 seconds, and cold water shock dramatically reduces their ability to save themselves. Physical barriers, personal flotation devices, and rescue equipment are all essential where water hazards exist.
- Install physical edge protection and barriers around all areas adjacent to open water.
- Provide personal flotation devices to all workers within two metres of any water hazard.
- Position rescue equipment including throw lines and lifebuoys within easy reach of the work area.
- Ensure at least two trained water rescue personnel are available when working over open water.
- Complete a specific water safety risk assessment for every task near or over water.
- Brief workers on the water hazards, PFD requirements, and rescue procedures during the task briefing.
- Implement a buddy system so no one works alone adjacent to water at any time.
- Monitor water levels, tidal conditions, and flow rates throughout the working day.
- Provide safe access and egress that does not require workers to cross unprotected water edges.
If someone falls into water, shout for help and throw a lifebuoy or rescue line immediately. Do not enter the water unless trained and equipped for water rescue. Call 999 and the coastguard if in tidal waters.
- A person can drown in under 60 seconds and cold water shock makes self-rescue extremely difficult.
- Physical barriers are the primary control — PFDs are a secondary measure for those who must work near edges.
- Rescue equipment must be positioned, accessible, and all workers must know its location.
- Never work alone near water — a buddy system ensures someone can raise the alarm immediately.
- Water conditions change with weather and tides so continuous monitoring is essential.
- If you fall in, try to float on your back and control your breathing until rescue arrives.
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