Safety When Working Above Water

• Falls from docks, bridges, platforms, tanks, or structures
• Drowning or being swept away after falling into water
• Slippery surfaces from algae, rain, ice, mud, or spray
• Cold water shock or hypothermia
• Dropped tools or materials striking people below or entering water
• Poor rescue planning for water-related emergencies

Working above water creates a fall hazard and a drowning hazard at the same time. The work may happen on docks, bridges, piers, tanks, basins, platforms, barges, dams, or utility structures.

Before work begins, crews should identify where a worker could fall and what would happen if they entered the water. Water depth, current, temperature, access, weather, and rescue options all matter.

Personal flotation devices may be required when workers are exposed to drowning hazards. A PFD only helps if it is the right type, in good condition, properly worn, and suitable for the work.

Fall protection may also be required depending on the work location. Guardrails, harnesses, lifelines, anchor points, and controlled access should be evaluated before workers move into exposed areas.

Walking surfaces above water can be slippery. Wet concrete, algae, metal grating, mud, ice, fish waste, spray, or loose materials can cause a worker to lose footing quickly.

Tools and materials should be controlled to prevent drops. Dropped objects can injure workers below, damage equipment, contaminate water, or create retrieval hazards.

Rescue planning is critical. Crews should know how to call for help, what rescue equipment is available, and how to avoid making an unsafe rescue attempt that creates a second victim.

Safe work above water requires planning for both the fall and the water exposure. Control the edge, use the right PPE, maintain footing, secure tools, and have a rescue plan before the work starts.

• Identify fall and drowning hazards before work begins.
• Wear a personal flotation device when required.
• Use fall protection when required.
• Watch for slippery surfaces, algae, spray, mud, and ice.
• Secure tools and materials from falling.
• Keep rescue equipment available when needed.
• Do not attempt an unsafe rescue.

• Could a worker fall into the water during this task?
• Is a PFD required and properly worn?
• Is fall protection required for the work location?
• Are surfaces slippery from water, algae, mud, or ice?
• What is the rescue plan if someone falls into the water?