Before any outing is undertaken equipment should be checked by the crew and coach, to ensure that it is in safe
condition and in working order.

Before an Outing

  • Check for hull damage, leaks etc.
  • Check that buoyancy compartments, seals, hatch covers and ventilation bungs are secure and watertight.
  • Check that the bow ball is securely fixed and fully covers the bow of the boat in order that adequate protection is
    given to any person or object struck by the moving boat. This check should also examine any fixing screws or
    bolts to ensure that they do not represent a further hazard in the event of accident.
  • Check that outriggers, swivels, gates, seats and stretchers are secure and operating freely.( In difficult water
    conditions are "splash boards" available and fitted?).
  • Check that heel restraints are secure and that restraints are adequate and effective, i.e. heels are positively
    restrained not to rise above the fixed point of the shoe.
  • Check that rudder lines, steering mechanisms, rudder and fin, are secure and in good working order.
  • Check oars and sculls for damage and ensure that "buttons" are secure and properly set.
  • Where "shoes" are fitted in the boat, check that the laces are adequate for their purpose. Check also, when tied,
    that they are not too tight, thereby immobilising the feet. Check also the condition of shoes and their fixing.
    Where "Velcro" straps are fitted, check for wear and replace regularly.
  • If, after risk assessment for a planned activity, it is judged that a boat, new or old, does not have sufficient
    inherent buoyancy, additional buoyancy should be added.

If any faults are found and equipment cannot be fixed there and then, it must not be used. You must tell Chris Rowley
ASAP and place an OUT OF ORDER sign on the boat. On completion of the fix, Chris Rowley will remove the sign from the
boat.

After an Outing

  • All Boats must have their hulls, foot wells, sax boards and canvases cleaned by the crew members. During
    cleaning any faults with the Boat must be reported.
  • Check oars and sculls for damage and ensure that "buttons" are secure and properly set.
  • Life Jackets and Cox Boxes must be put away properly and any faults reported.
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Boat Checks