There are a number of activities you can enjoy on the waterfront. From swimming to boating to just lounging about on the dock, there are plenty of ways to appreciate the water. But your safety is an important consideration before going for any of these activities.
As the owner, you must stay on top of dock safety precautions to prevent injuries or mishaps. Here are some things to keep in mind.
Regular Maintenance
Maintenance is necessary to make sure your dock is safe. Waves, wind, and more can damage your dock, making it more susceptible to wear and tear. When this happens, the chances of accidents rise. To ensure your dock is not putting anyone at risk, stay on top of maintenance. Carry out inspections regularly and fix any issues promptly.
Slip & Fall Prevention
Due to the water, slip and fall accidents are quite common on docks. Not only do they create the risk of people falling into the water, but they can also injure themselves on the dock itself. It’s a good idea to have anti-slip mats on the surface, mainly when water accumulates. Also, ensure the dock has proper lighting to ensure good visibility.
Loading & Unloading
Boat docks are frequently used for loading and unloading from different water vessels. This can also be dangerous if proper care is not taken. Your dock should have handrails and guardrails installed to provide support so nobody slips and falls into the water during the loading or unloading.
Try keeping the dock as empty as possible. Of course, you don’t want to remove any safety devices or installations, but keep it as empty of equipment as possible. This can compromise stability and lead to accidents.
Anchoring & Mooring
If you have a floating dock, ensure it’s securely anchored so it doesn’t drift or get displaced. You can use different anchoring systems, such as weighted anchors or pilings. Look at the dock’s design and the water conditions to select the appropriate method.
Ensure that mooring lines and cleats are in good condition and properly attached to the dock to prevent accidental movement.
Signage & Communication
Clear and informative signs are essential for keeping your dock a safe place for people. Safety guidelines and rules should be displayed in a prominent position. This includes any prohibited activities, swimming restrictions, and designated areas.
Also, keep emergency information in a visible area. This includes location details, emergency contact numbers, and safety procedures to be carried out in an emergency situation.
Directions should also be evident for anyone to see. It may seem like these signs are unnecessary for private dock owners, but you never know what circumstances could pop up. You don’t want to compromise on safety – whether it’s your own or for any visitors.
With proper precautions in place, you can minimize the likelihood of any accidents and minimize injury in case one does occur.
EZ Dock Texas offers low-maintenance docks, such as floating docks for boats, covered floating docks, drive-on docks, etc. For more information, please call (800) 654-8168.
