Safety

Health and safety is a prime consideration. No-one is allowed to take charge of a Club boat in the Boathouse, on the foreshore, or on the river until the Captain is satisfied that they are competent.

It is strongly recommended, as with any outdoor activity, that you keep up-to-date with Tetanus injections and are aware of the risks present from the micro biological or chemical quality of the water such as Weill's Disease which, though uncommon on the Tideway, is extremely serious. More information on Weill's Disease and other "nasties" is available on the British Rowing website.

Tideway navigation and steering

We recommend that all new members, coxes, bow-steerers, single scullers and launch drivers take a look at and learn Bristish Rowing's Tideway navigation and steering information, which outlines the minimum general navigation knowledge needed to safely control rowing outings on the Tideway.

PLA navigation rules

As of 1 May 2002 the navigation rules between Syon Reach and Putney Bridge changed. A summary, only, is shown below.

Greater detail is available from the PLA website notice. The crossover points are also shown on this PLA map.

(a) when proceeding with the tide, keep to the starboard side of the fairway;

(b) when proceeding against the tide, navigate as follows:

(i) between the Syon Crossing and the Chiswick Bridge Crossing, keep as close as is practicable to the Surrey shore;

(ii) between the Chiswick Bridge Crossing and the Chiswick Steps Crossing, keep as close as is practicable to the Middlesex shore;

(iii) between the Chiswick Steps Crossing and the Putney Crossing, keep as close as is practicable to the Surrey shore.

Note: Above the Syon Crossing and below the Putney Crossing rowers proceeding against the tide are reminded that they are to keep as near to the outer limit of the channel or fairway which lies on their starboard side as is safe and practicable.

(c) The Crossing points are established in the following locations:

(i) Syon Crossing – Syon Reach, opposite the Isleworth Ferry Gate (approximately 200 metres upstream of the PLA driftwood moorings).

(ii) Chiswick Bridge Crossing – opposite the "Ship" public house (approximately 200 metres downstream of Chiswick Bridge).

(iii) Chiswick Steps Crossing – 200 metres upstream of Chiswick Pier.

(iv) Putney Crossing – by Bishop’s Park steps approximately 100 metres upstream of Putney Road Bridge.

Important reminder

British Rowing are anxious that any incidents, dangerous situations, boats been driven dangerously etc. should be reported to the Port of London Authority; the body which oversees safety on the tidal section of the River Thames. Incidents should be reported on a PLA form 209, unless urgent, in which case they should first be telephoned to the PLA. The PLA Form is also available in the Clubhouse. Completed forms should be sent to: PLA, Bakers' Hall 7 Harp Lane, London EC3R 6LB. To avoid any duplication, please first liaise with our Safety Adviser (currently Ewen McLeod).

Night rowing

No Night rowing is permited in club boats.

Launch drivers – petrol

For insurance reasons, petrol must not be left in the launches in the boathouse. Always return petrol tanks to the padlocked store.

Quintin's safety adviser

Currently Ewen McLeod. Please contact him if you have any queries.

More information

Detailed information on safety can be found on the British Rowing (formerly ARA) website.