Work on or near water-related projects or jobs include: industrial fishing Additional ship or boat jobs (e.g., tours, etc.) life safety Construction (e.g., working on bridges, docks, decks, piers, etc) (e.g., working on bridges, docks, decks, piers, etc.) water testing Repression / Rescue (e.g., search and rescue, coastguard, police, etc.) The activities of diving or lifeguarding are not covered specifically in this document. Beyond the fundamental information presented here, these vocations call for additional training and credentials.
Are there any rules pertaining to occupational health and safety that safeguard against drowning?
Yes. All fourteen provinces and territories in Canada have laws preventing drowning. When there is a drowning risk and no additional safety precautions are in place to avoid a fall into the water, all jurisdictions mandate the wearing of a life jacket or personal flotation device (PFD) (e.g., other fall prevention or protections measures are in place such as guardrails, full body harness and life line, safety net, etc.). In other instances, the law may address particular circumstances or specify the usage of a life jacket (a device that can right a person on its own). For exact rules, always check with your jurisdiction. Keep in mind that Transport Canada also recommends specialized gadgets for use on specific watercraft or when near water. For instance, Transport Canada specifies the kinds of life jackets or PFDs that are necessary for Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), all other vessels, small vessels, personal watercraft used for enjoyment, and human-powered vessels (including stand-up paddleboards). For additional information on life jackets and other personal floatation devices, read the OSH Answers on drowning prevention. Legislation may also address rescue techniques and equipment in addition to drowning prevention, such as: A sufficient number of workers must receive rescue operations training, for example. The rescue tasks are assigned to workers. Workers are instructed on proper rescue techniques Employees receive training in rescue techniques and using rescue tools. First aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) instruction may be required for employees. Rescue tools could include: a sufficient boat with a life buoy, boat hook, life line, and life jackets—one for each member of the rescue crew—on board, and an audible alarm. A line containing buoys or other similar floating devices that can support a person should be strung across the water downstream from the work area in the presence of strong currents and securely anchored at either end.
What do the regulations governing occupational health and safety have to say about being prepared for emergencies while working near or on water?
When working on or above water, a written emergency response plan that is appropriate for foreseeable emergencies should be used. When working near or over water, certain governments specifically demand it (e.g., British Columbia and Newfoundland). In especially for the construction and film industries, Quebec mandates that a description of the work conducted near the water, as well as a transportation plan, be discussed with interested personnel and contractors at least 48 hours before work begins. Again, for exact regulations, always check with your jurisdiction. Consider the following while creating an emergency preparation plan: location, nature, and type of task being performed type of water body (e.g., do currents or tides exist? What depth? How warm is the water? what safeguards are in place to prevent falls among employees number of employees, work schedules, and weather What boats, work platforms, etc. will be available for transferring workers and equipment? What steps should be taken if a worker falls into the water? (e.g., type of boat, equipment needed, first aid procedures, etc.)
Why is security crucial when working near or on water?
Many issues arise when working near or on water, including but not limited to: prevention of drowning Cold-water immersion and shock Outdoor work: The climate (including lightning) General Cold Environments, Working in the Cold, First Aid and Health Effects, and Cold Temperature Conditions Health Effects of Hot Environments, First Aid, Controls, and Temperature Conditions - Work and Hot Humidex Rating Radiation from ultraviolet (sunlight) Managing Stinging Insects Safely diseases spread by insect bites, such as West Nile Virus and Lyme Disease Falls, trips, and slips, especially when wading through or walking through water Utilizing body belts, harnesses, and lanyards when working at heights
What transpires during a shock and immersion in cold water?
Canada has many lakes, rivers, and oceans with frigid water. While timing may vary depending on the actual temperature of the water, the body mass of the person, and the clothing they are wearing, the body goes through several stages during cold water immersion. It is reflexive for the body to gasp for air when a body is first immersed in cold water. If you are under water, water will be breathed in. Hyperventilation follows, which is breathing at 6 to 10 times the normal rate. This phase will last about 1 minute. It is very important to concentrate on steady breathing and to not panic. Wearing a personal floatation device will help to hold your mouth above water. Within 10 to 30 minutes, the cold will make it harder to use your arms and legs. The body will lose the use of fingers, arms and legs. This change will affect your ability to grab a rescue line or to pull yourself out of the water. If you can, begin self-rescue steps as soon as possible. If not, focus on breathing while you wait for rescue. Within about 30 to 60 minutes, unconsciousness due to hypothermia may happen. Bodies lose heat much faster when in the water. Try to get as much of your body out of the water as possible. Climb on the overturned boat or other floating object. If you are with others, huddle together by interlocking your arms and legs, and press your bodies together for warmth. If you are alone, float on your back and try to hug your legs close to your body. These positions are known as the heat escape lessening position. After rescue, it is important to monitor the person’s health, handle the person gently, and begin re-warming slowly. Seek medical attention.
What are some ways to reduce the risks of working on or near water?
Steps must be taken to eliminate or reduce the risk of falling into water. Solutions include using guardrails, fall arrest equipment, and safety nets. This equipment must all be installed and used according to your jurisdiction’s requirements and to manufacturer’s instructions. To increase the survival of workers that may enter the water, use life jackets or PFDs, and thermal protection (submersion suits) where necessary. Have equipment immediately available to help a person exit the water. Life saving equipment must also be provided and maintained. Any throwing lines used with lifebuoys or similar equipment must be of suitable size and length and made of buoyant material. Other examples include fixed ladders may be provided along the dock. In British Columbia, for example, these ladders must be no more than 30 metres (100 feet) apart, extend from the top of the dock to at least 1 metre (3.3 feet) below the lowest water level, be free of barnacles and marine growth, and have their location identified with high visibility paint.
What are additional tips when working around water?
When working on a deck, dock or similar surface: Make sure all walking areas and work surfaces are clean, dry, clear of debris, etc. Keep all gear secure when not in use. Keep stairs, ladders, doorways, ramps, walkways, and gangways clear. Safely secure ramps or gangways when loading and offloading. Check for items such as loose boards or nails that stick out on docks and repair as necessary. Wear footwear with slip-resistant soles. Use a non-skid deck compound where possible. Paint the edges of the dock, etc. and any trip hazards in a contrasting colour. Where mobile equipment is used, a curb or bullrail should be installed on the open sides of each float, dock, wharf, pier or similar areas. When working beside a boat: Make sure the fenders are in place on the docking side. Check the condition of the fenders regularly. Do not allow any part of your body to be between the dock and the boat. When walking near or in water: Take care when walking into the water. Rocks can be very slippery. Be aware of your surroundings, including changing water levels and floating debris. Use the buddy system in challenging situations. Avoid currents and areas of deep water.
What should be done when transporting workers by boat?
All boats and vessels must follow Transport Canada’s marine transportation requirements. Requirements cover many areas, including lifejackets, paddles, anchors, bailer/pump, fire extinguisher, signalling device, watertight flashlight or distress signal, buoyant heaving lines, etc.""" - https://www.affordablecebu.com/
