8.4 Boat construction and equipment

8.4 Boat construction and equipment

suitably qualified and boats should be suitably identified to alert other craft in the area that there are rowing boats on the water. Particular care is required to address risks where beginner, junior and inexperienced rowers are on the water.

Rowing Boats

▪All rowing equipment should be

kept in good order and inspected regularly.

▪Buoyancy compartments located

in bow and stern must be checked to ensure they are in good order and will function as intended. Boats should be handled carefully and correctly at all times when out of water to avoid damage to hulls or injury to crews or spectators.

Coach/safety boats should carry the following items of equipment:

▪Suitable bailer

▪Suitable inflatable pump - if an

inflatable is used as a rescue boat

▪Boats, when placed on water and

▪A throw bag with at least 10 m of

prior to crew embarking, should be checked to confirm they are safe, free of leaks and all moving parts are functioning.

buoyant line

▪A sound signalling device - air or

aerosol power klaxon

▪Thermal exposure blankets

▪Restraints and quick release

▪Lifebuoys or additional PFD/

mechanisms must be in good working order on boats equipped with fitted shoes. The use of Velcro straps on fixed shoes, as opposed to lace–ups, is recommended.

lifejackets to assist persons in the water – one for each crew member on the rowing boat

▪Suitable First Aid Kit (check

the contents regularly, at least monthly)

▪Check ventilation bungs are

▪Anchor and line

in position and that outriggers swivels, seats, etc. are secure.

▪Knife

▪Ensure all steering mechanisms

▪Engine Kill cord to be used by the

are working.

engine operator

▪Sculls and oar buttons should be

▪Paddle

checked to ensure they are secure and properly set.

▪Suitable handholds fixed to the

side of the boat – to assist persons being rescued

▪Coaching launches should be on

the water at all times when rowing craft are in use. Unescorted outings are not encouraged and, if undertaken, a designated person ashore should know the departure times, destinations and return times.

▪Give consideration to the fitting

of propellor guards to all outboard engines to protect persons in the water during recovery.