Safety on Floating Docks and Piers

Key Hazards

• Falls into water from docks, piers, or gangways
• Slippery surfaces from algae, rain, ice, mud, or spray
• Unstable movement from waves, wakes, wind, or shifting loads
• Gaps between docks, boats, gangways, and fixed structures
• Electrical hazards near wet environments
• Poor rescue planning for water emergencies

2–3 Minute Talk Script

Floating docks and piers can feel stable until weather, waves, wakes, or shifting loads cause movement. Workers must treat them as changing work surfaces near a drowning hazard.

Before work begins, workers should inspect the dock, pier, gangway, handrails, cleats, decking, floats, ladders, and access points. Damaged or loose components should be reported.

Walking surfaces can become slippery from algae, water, mud, ice, fish waste, or loose materials. Workers should wear footwear with good traction and avoid rushing.

Personal flotation devices may be required when workers are exposed to drowning hazards. The PFD should be the right type, in good condition, and worn properly.

Workers should watch for gaps and elevation changes between docks, boats, gangways, shorelines, and fixed platforms. These areas can shift as water levels or dock position changes.

Electrical equipment near docks requires special caution. Cords, lights, pumps, chargers, and shore power should be protected from water exposure and used according to electrical safety requirements.

Weather should be monitored. Wind, lightning, storms, high water, ice, and poor visibility can make dock work unsafe quickly.

Safe dock and pier work depends on footing, flotation, and rescue planning. Maintain awareness of the water, control electrical hazards, secure materials, and know what to do if someone falls in.

Safety Reminders

• Inspect docks, piers, gangways, and access points before work.
• Wear a PFD when required.
• Use footwear with good traction.
• Watch for gaps, movement, and changing water levels.
• Keep electrical equipment protected from water.
• Secure tools and materials from falling or rolling.
• Have rescue equipment and communication available.

Ask the Crew

• Is the dock or pier stable and in good condition?
• Is a PFD required for this task?
• Are surfaces slippery from algae, water, mud, or ice?
• Could gaps or movement create fall hazards?
• What is the rescue plan if someone falls into the water?