Safe Work Practices Around Water

• Drowning or being swept into moving water
• Slips and falls on wet surfaces, banks, docks, or structures
• Unstable soil or eroded edges near water
• Electrical hazards around wet areas
• Cold water shock or hypothermia
• Poor rescue planning for workers near water

Working around water creates hazards that can change quickly. Ponds, rivers, tanks, basins, ditches, channels, stormwater structures, wastewater areas, and flooded excavations can all expose workers to drowning, slips, unstable ground, and contamination.

Workers should evaluate the water hazard before starting work. Depth, current, access, visibility, weather, bank stability, and nearby structures can all affect the level of risk.

Slips and falls are common near water. Wet concrete, algae, mud, ice, metal grating, sloped banks, and uneven ground can cause a worker to fall into water or onto hard surfaces.

Personal flotation devices may be required when workers are exposed to drowning hazards. The correct type of flotation device should be selected for the task and worn properly.

Moving water deserves special caution. Even shallow water can knock a worker off balance if the current is strong or footing is poor.

Electrical equipment and water are a dangerous combination. Cords, pumps, generators, tools, and lighting should be protected from water exposure and used with proper electrical safeguards.

Emergency planning is critical. Crews should know how to call for help, what rescue equipment is available, and what not to do. Untrained workers should not jump in and become a second victim.

Safe work around water requires planning, footing awareness, proper PPE, and rescue readiness. The crew should control the hazard before anyone works near the edge.

• Identify drowning and fall hazards before work begins.
• Use personal flotation devices when required.
• Watch for slippery surfaces, algae, mud, ice, and wet metal.
• Stay back from unstable or eroded banks.
• Protect electrical equipment from water exposure.
• Have rescue equipment and communication available.
• Do not attempt unsafe rescue methods.

• Could a worker fall into water during this task?
• Is a personal flotation device required?
• Are banks, edges, docks, or walking surfaces stable and slip resistant?
• Is electrical equipment protected from water exposure?
• What is the emergency rescue plan if someone enters the water?