4.7 Group Safety at Water Margins

Overview

Water environments can provide valuable learning opportunities but may also present significant hazards. Careful planning and effective supervision are essential.

This guidance applies to activities that take place near or in water such as walking along a river bank or beaches, fieldwork near ponds or streams or paddling or walking in gentle*, shallow** water. It does not apply to swimming and other activities that require water safety or rescue qualifications and equipment, or water-going craft (boats etc.).

*Gentle means hardly moving at all. **Shallow typically means up to the knees of participants.

If the activity exceeds the above definition, then this is classed as a water-based adventurous activity needing employer approval.

Careful preparation and active supervision help ensure that learning experiences at water margins remain safe, engaging and educational for all participants.

Planning and Risk Management

Before visiting a water-margin location, you should identify hazards and plan appropriate control measures.

A pre-visit is strongly recommended, as water conditions can change quickly due to factors such as rainfall, tides, storms or freezing temperatures. Previous experience of a site should not be relied upon.

You should also:

• Check weather forecasts and tide times where relevant
• Look for warning notices or safety information at the site
• Seek advice from local authorities, lifeguards or other knowledgeable sources where appropriate
• Be prepared to implement a pre-planned alternative activity (Plan B) if conditions become unsafe

Site and Water Hazards

When assessing a location, you should consider:

• Safe access and exit points
• Slopes, unstable ground or slippery surfaces
• Mud, vegetation or loose rocks
• Hidden hazards beneath the water such as rocks or debris
• Wildlife
• Water depth and current strength

Moving water deeper than knee height can easily cause loss of footing. Downstream hazards such as weirs, waterfalls or fallen trees should also be identified.

At coastal locations, additional risks may include rising tides, rip currents, waves or unstable sand.

You should also consider water quality. Pollution from sewage, agricultural runoff or algal blooms may present health risks. Participants should never drink untreated water from natural sources.

Supervision and Group Management

Activities near water margins normally require direct supervision.

You should:

• Set clear boundaries and safety rules
• Brief participants before approaching the water
• Conduct regular headcounts
• Divide larger groups into smaller supervised teams where appropriate

Activities should remain structured, and you should intervene promptly if behaviour becomes unsafe. Plans should be adapted or stopped if environmental conditions change.