Alberta employers whose workers operate boats — on lakes, rivers, or remote access routes — carry safety responsibilities that go beyond a life jacket. Here is what the OHS Act requires and what good practice looks like.
June 20th is just around the corner which means summer has finally arrived in Alberta! And many people like to take advantage of our warm summer days by escaping to their favorite lake for a little R&R, which often involves getting out on a boat. While this is a fun pastime, it can also be dangerous if the proper precautions are not taken.
Canadian law also requires that boats are equipped with marine safety equipment. So, we’re here to provide you with some information and tips to help you enjoy your boat in a safe way.
Avoid Close Quarters Situations!
Keep constant watch for others on the water. Always watch for others on the water and be ready to yield to other boats in the safest way – keeping in mind the water and weather conditions. Ensure to change your speed when passing a boat to avoid a potential incident.
Use this list to ensure you have all the following safety equipment on board (at a minimum):
In addition to safety equipment, the following items are suggested for boating excursions:
Every year hundreds of people die in unintentional water-related accidents and unfortunately almost 65% of these deaths resulted from the use of alcohol. Over 40% of boating related fatalities involve the use of alcohol. 37% of boaters in Canada admit to consuming alcohol every time they boat and 66% report they drink alcohol sometimes when boating.
How does alcohol consumption affect the boater?
Boating can be a fun activity for people of all ages when it’s done safely. So, stay safe, stay sober (while boating anyways) and have a great summer!!
Written by
Safety Ahead Team
Alberta-based safety consultants with decades of field experience — COR auditors, OHS advisors, and WCB specialists working with employers across the province.
About Safety AheadWe help Alberta employers build seasonal safety plans and emergency response procedures that actually get followed in the field — not just filed in a binder.
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