Work safely in an aquatic environment

This standard is about working safely in an aquatic environment. It covers both understanding the health and safety requirements and policies of the work site, and being able to maintain the safety of yourself and others. It covers the importance of continually carrying out risk assessments and taking the appropriate action to maintain safe working on the site.

This standard is for everyone who works in an aquatic environment.

1. ensure the ongoing health and safety of yourself and others

2. select and ensure the effectiveness of protective equipment

3. use personal protective equipment (PPE) effectively at all times, according to manufacturers' instructions, and the site's standard operating procedures

4. adjust work to take account of prevailing weather and environmental conditions

5. apply recommended safe lifting and manual handling techniques at all times

6. use equipment safely according to manufacturers' instructions and the site's standard operating procedures

7. use and operate communication devices in support of personal safety

8. follow and communicate the requirements of the site emergency plans to others

9. report accidents and incidents according to organisational reporting requirements

1. the health and safety responsibilities of employer and employees

2. common hazards associated with working in an aquatic environment

3. when risk* *assessments should be conducted, including the role of dynamic risk assessment

4. how hazards and risks relevant to the work site are documented

5. the principles of accident and incident prevention and reporting

6. health and safety legislation and organisational policies and procedures

7. the importance of protective equipment in maintaining site safety

8. the use and correct application of protective equipment

9. the risks associated with weather and environmental conditions

10. personal cold water survival techniques

11. safe lifting and manual handling techniques and their importance in avoiding injury

12. why permissions are required for equipment usage

13. the importance of equipment maintenance

14. the communication devices that are required at the work site

15. site emergency plans

16. the dangers associated with lone working and how they can be minimised

17. the hazards associated with the handling of bottled gases

hazards* *– something with the potential to cause harm

protective equipment – might include:

• life-jackets
• respirators/dust masks
• ear muffs/plugs
• hard hats
• gloves
• goggles/face shields
• safety footware
• high-visibility clothing

risk – likelihood of the hazard's potential being realised