Opening Boat Club Bays for Rowing
Principles
This document is intended for clubs to amend to suit their individual circumstances.
· The Government guidance on staying alert and safe (social distancing) should be adhered to.
· All athletes must take responsibility for their own wellbeing and safety.
The aim of this document is to allow athletes to use rowing as a means of exercise. The British Rowing guidance should be used to help in producing your own instructions.
Getting to the Club
· Before leaving check the weather conditions and tide if applicable. If in doubt stay at home.
· Let someone know you are going for an outing, the nature of your outing and when you expect to return.
· All athletes should arrive at the club using personal transportation. It is not advisable to use public transport.
· Athletes should arrive at the club in the clothing they will use while rowing. Changing rooms will not be available.
Arrival at the Club
· Avoid attending at the same time as other members.
· Only access parts of the club which you have to in order to get your equipment out.
· Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use the hand sanitizer available. Do not move or touch any objects in the club until this is done. Carry your own hand sanitizer if possible.
· Do a personal risk assessment. Are the weather conditions and water conditions as you expected? If in doubt do not go out.
· If any equipment in the club needs to be moved, make sure social distancing is observed.
Getting Boats Out
· Consider washing your boat and blades before using them. You do not know who might have been in contact with them.
· Sign the logbook / follow the signing in and out process
· If you need help getting your boat out maintain social distancing.
· Maintain social distancing if you are having to wait to get your boat onto a pontoon.
On the Water
· Always carry a mobile phone or other means of calling for help in a waterproof case attached to the boat or yourself.
· Whenever possible row with someone else, using the buddy system. If you get into difficulties, there is someone to give immediate assistance.
· Keep a good look out. Most incidents in rowing are caused by failing to do this.
Returning from the Outing
· Wash your boat and blades before putting them away.
· Sign the logbook.
· Once all equipment has been stored wash your hands for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer.
· Avoid using changing facilities.
· Take all your belongings away with you.
Notes for Athletes
· It has been several weeks since rowing was allowed, do not overexert yourself in the first few outings.
· The lack of boat activity on waterways has allowed nature to reclaim habitats. Take care to avoid the disturbance of nesting birds and other wildlife that may have returned to the water.
· Remember it is unlikely a coaching launch can rescue you if you get into difficulties.
Notes for Clubs
· Apart from the Boat Bays all parts of the Club should be closed
· Changing rooms and showers should not be used except in an emergency.
· Consider moving any equipment that may hinder boats being taken out. For example, can the launches be placed in a bay that currently cannot be used.
· Place hand sanitizer in easily accessed places.
· Make sure facilities for washing equipment is readily available.
· If social distancing proves difficult a booking system may need to be introduced.
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