Safety Matters
Keeping everyone safe on and off the water
Staying safe is all about taking care to avoid accidents. We should all take care of ourselves and always consider the consequences of our actions on others.
There are known hazards to avoid and we must be prepared to cope if something unexpected happens. Safety is all about what we do and the way we behave.
Our Shared Responsibility
Every member of OTRC is responsible for the safety of:
- Themselves
- Other club members
- Friends, family and visitors we welcome to our club
- Other river users including:
- Cruiser operators
- Fishermen
- Open-water swimmers
- Other water sports enthusiasts
We should never do anything that puts anyone at risk.
Safety Guidelines & Best Practices
British Rowing RowSafe Guidelines
All club activities follow the British Rowing RowSafe guidelines, the national standard for safe rowing practice that every UK club is expected to work to.
RowSafe covers everything from on-water safety procedures and equipment standards to safeguarding, cold water protocols, and incident reporting. It is the backbone of how OTRC is run.
OTRC Safety Plan
How the British Rowing guidelines affect what we do and how we do it is summarised in the OTRC Safety Plan, which every member should read and understand.
This plan outlines specific procedures, protocols, and practices tailored to our club's facilities, local conditions, and activities.
Risk Assessments
Risk assessments are reviewed regularly for the boathouse, our 3.5 km of river, and each type of session (water, erg, circuits). Assessments cover river conditions, weather thresholds, cold water response, traffic on the river, and equipment condition.
Incidents and near-misses are logged and reviewed by the committee, with control measures updated as needed.
Club Safety Adviser
Role & Responsibilities
The club has a Safety Adviser as part of the committee whose job it is to:
- Advise club members on safety matters
- Ensure the Safety Plan and Risk Assessments are kept up to date and relevant
- Promote a 'safety first' culture within the club
- Coordinate safety training and education
- Investigate incidents and implement improvements
Current Contact:
Sue Green (Safety Adviser)
Members can contact the safety adviser either directly at training or recreational sessions, or via email at: safety@oundletownrowing.co.uk
Insurance & Liability
Insurance Coverage
OTRC has comprehensive insurance cover for damage to club and third-party boats and equipment.
Our insurance policy provides protection for:
- All club-owned boats and equipment
- Third-party boats and equipment
- Damage occurring during club activities
- Public liability coverage
Quick Safety Reminders
Check Conditions
Always check weather and water conditions before going out
Equipment Checks
Inspect boats and equipment before and after use
Buddy System
Never row alone - always inform someone of your plans
Safety Equipment
Know where safety equipment is located and how to use it
Report Incidents
Report all incidents and near-misses to help us improve
Stay Informed
Attend safety briefings and keep your knowledge up to date
