Building a Business Brick by Brick

Two ways to prevent accidents and injuries during a marina construction project

Building a marina can be quite a challenging and potentially dangerous task. As such, it is important for those who intend to carry out this type of project to take steps to prevent their labourers from sustaining injuries. Here are two ways that they can do this.

Be prepared to perform an emergency rescue operation

During a marina construction project, labourers usually need to spend a substantial amount of time performing tasks whilst standing on boats or floating platforms. As a result of this, there is a significant risk that one of them may end up falling into the water.

It is absolutely critical for those in charge of a marina construction project to ensure that they are prepared for this type of emergency situation. If they are not, there is a chance that one of their labourers could end up drowning.

In this context, 'being prepared' means two things. Firstly, the people working on the project should have easy access to equipment that they will need to quickly rescue anyone who falls into the water.

This equipment should include a ring buoy (that the person can hold onto to stay afloat), a row boat (to enable the rescuer to reach and pull a person out of the water if the person in question is unconscious and cannot, therefore, grab hold of the ring buoy) and a lifejacket (which the rescuer should wear if they need to dive into the water in order to save the other person).

Secondly, everyone who will be performing work near the water should be involved in regular safety drills, which will teach them exactly what to do if anyone falls overboard.

Be cautious when it comes to using electrical power tools near the water

Power tools, such as drills, angle grinders, sanders and electric saws, often need to be used during the course of a marina construction project. Unfortunately, operating an electrical power tool close to water can significantly increase a person's risk of being electrocuted. 

To prevent this from happening, precautions should be taken in situations where these types of tools are required. Firstly, where possible, only waterproof power tools should be used.

In instances where non-waterproof tools have to be used, the person operating them should be provided with both insulating gloves and insulating boots, to reduce their chances of getting a shock if the tool they are holding comes into contact with water.

Thirdly, labourers should avoid using power tools close to the water on extremely windy days, as there is a chance that a gust of wind could result in water splashing onto them and the tools which could, in turn, lead to them being electrocuted.


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