All units must complete a full PFD inspection and log results by 25 July 2026 following the state-wide compliance audit.
Following the state-wide lifejacket compliance audit, all Brisbane Water units are required to complete a full inspection of on-board and store PFDs, tag any unit found defective, and log results in the WHS register by 25 July 2026. Units with unresolved defects will be stood down from rostered patrols until remediated. Contact your Unit Safety Officer with any questions.
— WHS Board Secretariat
Water temperatures on Brisbane Water are currently around 15°C. Review cold-water immersion and hypothermia response procedures.
With water temperatures around 15°C this month, volunteers are reminded that cold-water immersion can cause incapacitation within minutes. Ensure thermal layers are worn under PFDs on all winter patrols, review the cold-water immersion response in SOP-014, and brief crew on early signs of hypothermia before departure.
— Operations Safety Officer
Revised manual handling guidance is now in effect for slipway and trailer operations — two-person minimum for items over 20kg.
The manual handling guidelines for vessel lift and slipway operations have been updated. A two-person minimum now applies to any item over 20kg, and mechanical lifting aids must be used where available. See SOP-014 for the full updated procedure and refer any questions to your Unit Safety Officer.
— WHS Board Secretariat
A near-miss slip was reported on Pontoon B due to algae build-up. Interim signage placed; cleaning scheduled this week.
A volunteer reported a near-miss slip on Pontoon B caused by algae build-up on the decking. Interim warning signage has been placed and non-slip matting installed. A full clean and anti-slip treatment is scheduled this week. All members are asked to use the alternate access point until works are complete and to continue reporting hazards promptly via the incident reporting procedure (SOP-030).
— Unit Safety Officer
Step-by-step guide to correctly fitting a personal flotation device and inspecting it for wear before every shift.
Demonstrates the correct technique for boarding and leaving rescue vessels safely at the pontoon, including three-point contact.
Covers correct lifting technique for fuel drums, batteries and equipment stores to reduce strain injuries.
