Working near water is pretty common in the construction industry. Is your team compliant and prepared for all scenarios?
1. Carry Out a Site-Specific Risk Assessment
Every site where work occurs near water must undergo a comprehensive risk assessment. This should examine:
- Water depth, speed, and hidden currents
- Bank and platform stability
- The presence of submerged hazards
- Potential contamination risks
Risk assessments must be dynamic — continually updated as conditions change.
2. Install Measures to Prevent Falls
Preventing falls is the first line of defence when working near water. Employers should install:
- Guardrails and barriers
- Anti-slip flooring
- Secure work platforms
Where barriers are impractical, fall arrest systems combined with buoyancy protection are essential.
3. Provide the Correct Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
All personnel working near water should wear:
- Life jackets or buoyancy aids, properly fitted and maintained
- Waterproof gloves, boots, and suits when working with contaminated water
Regular inspections and servicing of PPE are critical to ensure its effectiveness.
4. Have a Water Rescue Plan in Place
A rescue plan must be established before any work starts. This plan should include:
- Readily available rescue poles, throw lines, and flotation devices
- Workers trained in water rescue procedures
- Emergency communication protocols
Training your team to respond rapidly and correctly to water emergencies could save lives.
5. Train Employees in Water Safety Skills
Health and Safety Officers must ensure employees are properly trained for the challenges of working near water. Rescue 3 International’s Safe Working In Water and Safe Working Near Water courses teach:
- Hazard recognition
- Rescue techniques
- Self-rescue and buddy rescue skills
- Correct use of rescue equipment
Training is a legal requirement under HSG150 and significantly reduces workplace incidents.
6. Monitor Environmental and Weather Conditions
Construction and engineering activities near water must factor in environmental changes such as:
- Rainfall and flood risks
- Tidal fluctuations
- Strong winds and storms
Daily weather checks and real-time monitoring help keep workers safe.
7. Protect Against Health Risks from Contaminated Water
Exposure to contaminated water can cause serious illnesses like Leptospirosis (Weil’s Disease). To protect workers:
- Provide waterproof protective clothing
- Promote good hygiene practices (washing cuts, using gloves)
- Educate teams on early symptoms and response actions
Effective training and PPE dramatically reduce the risks associated with contaminated water.
Working Near Water: Legal and Moral Responsibilities for Employers
Working near water brings not just operational challenges but heavy legal and ethical responsibilities.
According to HSG150:
- Suitable fall prevention and rescue systems must be in place.
- Workers must be provided with buoyancy aids where there is a risk of drowning.
- Rescue equipment must be accessible, and workers trained in its use.
Employers are expected to take all reasonably practicable steps to ensure the welfare of their workforce. Failing to do so could lead to serious penalties — and irreparable human consequences.
Why Choose Land & Wave for Water Safety Training?
At Land & Wave, we deliver Rescue 3 International-accredited courses specifically designed for those working near water in the construction and engineering industries.
Our Safe Working In Water and Safe Working Near Water courses empower your employees with:
- Site-specific hazard recognition skills
- Practical rescue and self-rescue techniques
- Proper use of PPE and rescue equipment
- Full understanding of legal obligations and best practices
Training takes place in real-world conditions, building practical confidence and lifesaving ability — not just theoretical knowledge. Get your team trained up now.
Protect Your Workforce – Book Your Water Safety Training Today
When your team is working near water, you can’t afford to take chances.
✅ Book your Rescue 3 Safe Working In Water or Safe Working Near Water course with Land & Wave and ensure your people are trained, protected, and prepared.
