Safety
Safety is the paramount consideration when considering whether to row.
The Club has made these Rules for Boating which are binding on all members
Safety Plan
A new club safety plan has been produced which combines all the club's previous safety related documents into one easy to read plan. The plan can be read here.
Rules for Boating
• Only experienced and competent crews to row on the river alone (singles should have a buddy), all others must be accompanied by other experienced boats or a launch, commensurate with prevailing conditions, or as determined by the captain (or designate, see list below)
• Always consider weather, stream and debris conditions. If in doubt go to the gym!
Visibility
1. If less than 500m (steps to pumping station), coxed boats only with experienced cox
2. If less than 300m (steps to bridge) No Rowing
• During winter and cold weather take extra precautions. Limit outing time (eg. 45mins for coxes)
• Book your boat using the online system. Ensure you cancel your booking if needed.
• Private scullers or anyone rowing outside normal club sessions do so at their own risk.
• If Green step is covered then a launch must be on the water (it can be tied to the slipway) with a person in charge ready to respond.
Risk Assessment
The Club Safety Officer has prepared a spreadsheet with a complete Risk Assessment for the risks associated with normal rowing. It is essential reading for all members.
Click on the link for access
Experience and Competence
The following list of members are deemed by the Committee to be competent to decide if prevailing conditions are suitable to allow outings (either in total or for specific crews)
James Allison
Mike Butler
Darren Cooper
Chris Cowburn
Julia Cowton
Dan Cowton
Charley Curtis
Dawn Evans
Eric Froggatt
Geoff Hitt
John Jenkins
Liz Lewis
Tim Male
Mark Stewart-Woods
Adrian Tully
Evan Whittal-Williams
updated May 2022
All members must respect the decisions made, which do not relieve individuals from making their own assessment whilst on the water.
(if none of the named members above are available to make decisions then be prepared to justify the prevailing criteria should you decide to go on the water!)