All participants must have read or be aware of:
Session Leads
All club water activities must have a Session Lead. If there is no club members available that have been named as a Session Lead, any on-water activity must be cancelled.
Session leads are named club members that have sufficient rowing experience, knowledge of the River Tay, knowledge of club policies, knowledge of water safety practices, and a suitable attitude to support club members during on-water activity in a safe and encouraging manner. Session Leads will be identified in TeamApp.
Visibility
On-water activity must have a minimum visibility of 200m.
On-water activity must only take place during daylight hours – defined as Civil Twilight. All boats must launch after civil twilight begins and must be off the water before it ends. The minimum visibility requirement still applies, so it is the responsibility of rowers to ensure there is sufficient visibility before boating.
Condition of equipment
Members should inspect equipment before each session including (but not exclusively); Bow-ball integrity, buoyancy of the boat (sealed hatches or buoyancy bags), heel restraints. Any issues with equipment should be raised with the session leader.
Incidents & accidents
All incidents including near misses, must be reported within 24hrs of the event. This includes a written report in the log book (in the container) and an email to the club safety officer – safety@tayrowingclub.com.
In the event of an emergency please refer to the club emergency action plan.
Launches
Launches must only be operated by RYA level 2 accredited drivers or drivers with appropriate prior experience.
Before taking to the water the driver must check the launch for buoyancy, fuel level, kill cord and safety pack (containing flares, blankets, throw line and first aid). The driver and all passengers must wear appropriate clothing and a buoyancy device.
The driver must be familiar with local navigation rules and hazards before taking to the water.
Coxswains & steering
Coxswains must wear a buoyancy device while on the water. If coxing in a ‘bow-loader’ the cox may not wear a buoyancy aid but a life jacket, so that they can safely escape the boat in the event of capsize.
The cox or, in coxless boats, the steersman is responsible for the safety of the boat and crew when on the water. In novice boats this responsibility will transfer to the coach/ supervisor. Coaches should ensure all athletes are aware of the navigation pattern and any hazards to expect.
All water users should be familiar with local navigation rules and hazards before taking to the water.
Coaches
All coaches should be UKCC level 2 (or equivalent) accredited.
Coaches are expected to assist with crew safety and in instruction of rowing. Safety should be the foremost aim of the coach above performance.
Each session should begin with a briefing of crew(s), any concerns and questions should be raised here. The coach should discuss both the session plan and water conditions. Water users should also be reminded to wear appropriate clothing.