Working over or near to water Checklist

*Is there a risk of drowning resulting from any number of factors?

*Is there a risk of serious injuries resulting from impact with the structure during a fall?

*If there is a risk of the person being unconscious when they enter the water, will the lifejacket automatically inflate and turn them face upwards?

*Do all lifejackets meet the relevant British Standard?

*Could leptospirosis (Weil’s disease) be contracted from ingesting contaminated water?

*Has the ingestion of other contaminants in the water been considered?

*Is there a risk of catching hypothermia from being in cold water for too long?

*Is there a risk of suspension syncope from being left suspended in a harness for too long?

*Are petrol or diesel closely controlled when refuelling rescue craft?

*Can hazardous materials (such as solvents, paints or dust) fall into the water and create pollution?

*Are procedures in place to monitor weather conditions, tidal sequences and flow rates of the river?

*Are there specific wildlife considerations in the area of work?

*Have measures been provided to prevent falls, along with secondary measures to prevent a falling person from entering the water?

*Where falls are possible, have lifejackets and training been provided and their correct use monitored?

*Has the appropriate rescue equipment been selected and maintained as necessary?

*Have the people at risk been trained in how to avoid falling into the water and what actions to take if they do fall?

*Have the workers been given general safe working at height guidance?

*Has additional training been provided for safety-boat operators and crew (Royal Yachting Association (RYA) trained)?

*Are qualified first aiders (HSE-accredited and trained) available?

*Are all site operatives trained in the use of rescue equipment (for example, lifebuoys or rescue lines)?

*Are safe working practices at height in place to mitigate the need for rescue?

*Are procedures in place to ensure the prompt location and rescue of anyone who is in the water?

*Where there is any chance that injuries have been sustained, will the emergency services be contacted immediately when someone falls into the water so that they can be on their way while the rescue is being carried out?

*If there is a risk of falling into the water while working on a mobile elevating work platform (MEWP), has a risk assessment been carried out to determine whether a harness will be worn?(Operatives attached by a harness are at greater risk of drowning.)

*Do management and workers comply with the Work at Height Regulations?

*Is personal flotation equipment and other PPE provided as necessary?

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