Working Near Water: Drowning Prevention and Heat Risk

Working near water brings a dual risk: the threat of drowning and the dangers of extreme heat exposure. For employees in sectors such as construction, agriculture, environmental monitoring, marine services, and utility maintenance, managing these risks is essential for safe operations.

Personal protective equipment (PPE), hazard assessments, and proper training play a pivotal role in keeping workers safe while balancing comfort and protection.

Working Near Water presents unique occupational hazards, combining the deadly risks of drowning with the insidious dangers of heat stress. Whether in marine construction, bridge maintenance, environmental fieldwork, or utility services near rivers and lakes, workers must be aware and protected.

This article offers an in-depth guide on the two major threats—drowning and heat exposure—along with practical strategies to safeguard workers in these high-risk environments.

Understanding the Dual Risk: Why Working Near Water Is So Dangerous

Working near water introduces a double hazard scenario: physical submersion leading to drowning, and excessive heat exposure causing illness or injury.

The combination is especially dangerous in summer months when temperatures soar, personal protective equipment becomes heavier to wear, and fatigue is common.

• Drowning Risk is ever-present where open water, fast currents, or unguarded edges are involved. Slips, trips, falls, or sudden weather changes can lead to emergencies within seconds.
• Heat Risk intensifies due to reflective surfaces from water, limited shade, and the physical demands of outdoor labor.

Real-life incidents show that even strong swimmers are at risk if safety protocols are not followed, especially when fatigue or dehydration set in.

Drowning Prevention: Layers of Protection

Preventing drowning requires a multi-layered approach integrating hazard identification, proper training, equipment, and situational awareness.

Risk Assessment and Planning

Before any task begins near water, a site-specific risk assessment should be conducted.

This must include:

• Water depth, flow, and tides
• Entry/exit points and potential escape routes
• Local wildlife (alligators, snakes, etc.)
• Emergency response capabilities

Refer to guidelines from agencies like WorkSafeBC or Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS).

Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)

All workers operating near water should wear a properly fitted, approved PFD or lifejacket. Choose based on:

• Buoyancy rating
• Suitability for the work task
• Visibility (bright colors, reflective strips)
• Integration with harness systems if fall protection is also needed

Barriers and Signage

• Install guardrails, buoys, and physical barriers around high-risk zones.
• Use clear signage warning of swift currents, drop-offs, and slippery surfaces.

Rescue Equipment and Protocols

Place rescue gear within 10–20 meters of water work zones:

• Throw bags
• Life rings with lines
• Reach poles

Establish a rescue plan, assign watchers or spotters, and conduct mock drills regularly to maintain readiness.

Heat Risk Near Water: Not Just a Summer Concern

Heat illnesses don’t just occur on dry land. Near water, reflected sunlight, humidity, and heavy PPE increase thermal strain.

The result? Increased chances of:

• Heat exhaustion
• Heat stroke
• Dehydration
• Cramping and dizziness that may cause slips or accidents

Heat Stress Management Strategies

Hydration and Breaks

Implement hydration protocols:

• Provide cool, clean water within reach at all times.
• Encourage drinking every 15–20 minutes, even if not thirsty.
• Offer electrolyte solutions during extended outdoor shifts.

Set mandatory rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned shelters—preferably on a rotating schedule to avoid overexertion.

Clothing and PPE Adjustments

While safety gear is non-negotiable, it can be adapted for the heat:

• Use lightweight, moisture-wicking base layers under PPE.
• Choose ventilated helmets and UV-protective eyewear.
• Consider cooling vests or towels during peak sun exposure.

Monitoring and Buddy Systems

Establish a buddy system to watch for early signs of heat-related illness. Supervisors should use:

• Heat index monitoring tools
• Mobile apps (e.g., OSHA-NIOSH Heat Safety Tool)
• Color-coded flag systems to communicate risk levels

Training: Building Competence in Water and Heat Safety

Workers must be trained not only on the what but the why of each safety protocol. Training should include:

• Recognizing drowning hazards
• Donning and inspecting PFDs
• Basic water rescue techniques
• Heat illness symptoms and first aid
• Emergency communication protocols

Incorporate interactive simulations and real-life case studies to improve retention and hazard perception.

Supervision and Real-Time Monitoring

Work near water and in the heat requires active supervision.

Assign dedicated safety observers:

• Conduct visual sweeps at regular intervals
• Monitor compliance with hydration, PPE, and rest schedules
• Ensure quick access to emergency services if needed

Supervisors should keep in contact with workers via radios or communication apps, especially on remote or expansive sites.

Regulatory Compliance and Best Practices

Ensure alignment with:

• Canadian Occupational Health and Safety Regulations
• CSA Z1006 Emergency Response and Rescue
• OHSA Part VII – Environmental Conditions
• Local municipal codes and water authority rules

Staying compliant not only protects lives but shields organizations from legal and financial liabilities.

Case Study Snapshot: Lessons from the Field

Incident: A utility crew working near a fast-flowing river during peak summer experienced a double emergency—one worker collapsed from heat exhaustion, and another slipped trying to assist.

Outcome: Both were rescued in time, thanks to a vigilant spotter and accessible rescue gear. However, investigations found:

• Inadequate shade
• No heat index tracking
• Poor rescue training

Lesson: Prevention depends on preparedness, vigilance, and proper gear.

Quick Reference Table: Water and Heat Safety Essentials

Internal and External Resources

• Learn more on OHSE.ca for updated Canadian safety guidelines.
• Review CCOHS Heat Stress Info (DoFollow link).
• Refer to Life Saving Society for PFD standards and water rescue programs (DoFollow link).

Also, ensure your safety procedures are aligned with Government of Canada Occupational Health Resources (DoFollow link).

For businesses offering outdoor services, check out listings on meinca.com to connect with professional safety training providers near water-based worksites.

Conclusion: Protecting Lives While Working Near Water

Working Near Water demands a serious, dual-hazard approach—drowning prevention and heat risk management must go hand-in-hand. Through detailed planning, effective training, proper equipment, and vigilant supervision, employers can create a safe and productive environment for their teams.

Remember, it only takes a moment of carelessness to trigger a tragedy—but a culture of safety can prevent it altogether.