Let’s dive right in. Working near water is no walk in the park. It’s downright hazardous, and if employees aren’t properly equipped with the right knowledge, training, and gear, it can spell disaster. We’re talking loss of life here, folks. The Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK) has stepped up to offer some much-needed guidance to companies in the water sector, and it’s high time we all pay attention.
Here’s the stark reality: on average, one person every month drowns or has a near-drowning incident while at work. That’s according to data from the Water Incident Research Hub, covering 2015-2022. Employers, listen up—you’re legally responsible for your workforce’s health and safety. That means ensuring your employees’ welfare and providing a safe working environment. But here’s the kicker: too many companies are dropping the ball on water safety.
Paul Magee, principal and chief instructor of PGM Training, has seen it all. With over a decade of experience delivering water safety training, he’s noticed a glaring gap. “Many companies, particularly in the private sector, are unaware of their responsibilities,” Magee says. “They’re great at training for manual handling and working at height, but water safety? It’s just not on their radar.”
But why the disconnect? Well, climate change is throwing us a curveball. Increased flooding incidents mean more people are working in flooded conditions. Chris Eades, owner of Bristol Maritime Academy, puts it bluntly: “The impact of climate change means high-quality water safety training is more critical than ever. If you’re questioning the need to train your team to be safe by water, the chances are that you should already be investing in workplace water safety training.”
So, what’s the solution? Water safety training, plain and simple. The RLSS UK offers a variety of courses tailored to different needs. From the National Water Safety Management Programme (NWSMP) to DEFRA-aligned courses, there’s something for everyone. These courses cover everything from water safety awareness to first responder training.
But here’s where it gets interesting. The RLSS UK has been at this since 1891. They’re not just talking the talk; they’re walking the walk. Their comprehensive range of vocational water safety training courses and qualifications are designed to prevent unnecessary loss of life. And they’re not just for the big players—they’re for anyone working near water.
Now, let’s talk about the future. This news should be a wake-up call for the maritime industry. We need to challenge the norm that water safety is an afterthought. It’s time to invest in comprehensive training programs, to make water safety as much a part of the conversation as manual handling or working at height. Because at the end of the day, it’s about saving lives. And that’s something we can all get behind.
So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get to work. Download that free Water Safety at Work Guidance poster, book an RLSS UK course, and let’s make our waterways safer for everyone. The future of the maritime industry depends on it.