Cygnet Rowing Club

Code of Conduct

INTRODUCTION

This code of conduct has been compiled in accordance with the Amateur Rowing Association's published safety code and the example of similar codes at other Rowing Clubs. It is intended to help every member of the club to get the most out of rowing by:-

• Looking after equipment properly, so that it is available for use and so that it lasts - boats and blades are expensive to replace.
• Emphasising safety for you and for other river users.
• Minimising the potential for disruptive misunderstanding and problems.

In general these rules are little more than common sense and assume responsible behaviour. They cannot cover all possible situations - if in doubt ask your Captain, a committee member or your coach. Anybody acting irresponsibly can have his membership suspended. All clubs have a similar code - wherever you may be training or competing you should follow these guidelines.

This code applies to anyone using the Club's equipment, and to any Club member boating from the Civil Service or Emanuel Boathouse.

Please remember that the club has limited financial resources. This money is far better spent on additional facilities and equipment than on repairs and increased insurance premiums.

Safety is an issue involving everybody in the club irrespective of their activities. In the context of club activities it should be possible to rely upon everybody to act responsibly and safely. Safety consciousness will prevent accidents and damage, and, keep costs down. Any disregard for the safety of others is inexcusable. Any act which endangers others, including interfering with safety equipment, may be an infringement of the law. There are therefore clear financial, moral, and legal obligations, which make due regard to safety essential.

Recently, safety has become a prominent issue. This stems from increased safety awareness, the requirements of legislation, and an increase in litigation on such issues.

The ARA requires that the club appoints a Safety Officer and adheres to certain practices. The Safety Officer is not the club policeman to whom all safety matters are delegated so that club members can continue their activities regardless of the risks. The Safety Officer will promote awareness of risks and of safe practices. It is YOUR responsibility as a club member to understand and minimise those risks and to apply the necessary practices so that all can enjoy rowing without accident or disruption. If we do not take sufficient action ourselves we might find that restrictive requirements are imposed upon us.

The ARA safety code is displayed prominently on the notice board in the boathouse. You must follow its recommendations. The following points are worthy of particular emphasis:

Navigation - Refer to the map and guidelines on the notice board. You must follow the correct course for your own safety and that of other river users. Generally the rule applying to river traffic which you must observe when rowing on an inland waterway is to keep to the right (Starboard side) of the centre passing other vessels Port to Port. Follow the sweep of the river and avoid cutting across bends.

However, these rules are amended for rowing boats, and launches coaching them, between Putney Bridge and Richmond Lock, i.e. our stretch of river. Check which way the tide is flowing - if you are with the tide keep to the centre as you would on any other river, passing other vessels Port to Port when possible (it is a wide river so common sense comes into play). Remember that the larger boats have a restricted channel of deep water - DO NOT force them into shallower water by thoughtless steering, particularly when the tide is low.

When rowing against the tide keep to the Middlesex (boathouse) side between the far side of Chiswick Bridge and the far end of Duke's Meadows (by the new housing development). At these points you should cross the river and keep to the Surrey (far) side of the river as far as the Richmond Barrier or Putney Bridge respectively.

No-one unfamiliar with the "Rules of Navigation on the Tideway" should steer a boat without being briefed by an experienced club member on the salient features of the river including accident blackspots and areas where hazards may arise; these might include strong winds and currents, shoals, boats with inexperienced crews etc. An inexperienced cox should be accompanied by a launch or one crew member must take responsibility for guidance.

It is particularly important for scullers and those steering coxless boats to look ahead frequently. Apply a three stroke rule: every third stroke the bow rower should look ahead alternately to the left and to the right, more frequently when necessary. There is no excuse for hitting something that is clearly visible.

Make sure you are familiar with the sound signals used by other river users. This can be particularly important at points where the large pleasure cruisers and ferries berth and will allow their manoeuvres to be anticipated. These are:

1 blast Turning right (starboard)

2 blasts Turning left (port)

3 blasts Going astern

4 blasts Unable to manoeuvre

4 blasts, pause 1 blast Turning around clockwise(starboard)

4 blasts, pause 2 blast Turning around anti-clockwise (port)

Right of way is usually afforded to:

Slower or less manoeuvrable craft

Sailing vessels

Vessels moving downstream

Vessels in difficulty

Do not insist upon your right of way if it makes a hazardous situation worse. Having right of way does NOT mean that you may proceed without keeping a lookout or exercising due caution leaving the onus upon other craft to avoid you! The overriding consideration is that YOU must avoid a collision.

When turning a boat around, do this where the stream is moving you away from an obstacle paying particular attention to the state of the tide to avoid being swept towards it, especially as the boat becomes broadside on to the stream. For example, when returning from an outing on an incoming tide, crews MUST pass through Barnes Bridge before turning to return through the Bridge and come ashore.

Other River Users - Have respect for other river users who have an equal right to be there and to enjoy the amenities. Such users include anglers whose lines may be snagged by boats too close to the bank, other rowing craft, sailing boats, pleasure cruisers and small motor boats which are often driven by the inexperienced. Visitors to the Tideway may not know where there is water deep enough for them to navigate.

Sailing boats warrant particular attention as they can change course and speed rapidly and unpredictably. Such boats are often racing around a fixed course marked out by temporary buoys placed in the river. Impeding their progress will bias the outcome of their race. In general try and steer close to the bank leaving the sailing boats nearer the middle where winds may be favourable. Reduce speed if necessary and be prepared to make an emergency stop if a collision looks likely. In return sailing boats should not make sudden manoeuvres which call for evasive action.

Always attempt to be courteous and try and avoid heated exchanges if an incident does occur. It is easy in the heat of the moment to act in a manner that will appear absurd when viewed coolly later on, and make it more difficult to agree a constructive resolution. In addition judgement may be affected by emotion. Try and remain in command of the situation.

Coxes - Coxes must wear buoyancy aids, always, without exception. These are kept in the Caboose within the boathouse. Coxes should know how to don, adjust and operate the lifejacket. Young Coxes may not know or forget. They should demonstrate their knowledge occasionally and ensure the inflation toggle is accessible - groping feverishly when it is needed is too late.

Capsize Drill - There is a risk of capsize even for the most experienced scullers and knowledge of the remedial steps is essential.

Hazardous Conditions - Fast stream, high winds, fog, very high or very low water levels, excessive flotsam, excessive river traffic are common conditions on the river. The club or the PLA may prohibit certain activities and these prohibitions must be observed. In addition, do not persist with an outing if one or a combination of the above conditions is likely to cause a hazard. Caution is not only preferred but essential under such circumstances.

Other safety considerations apart from those accentuated by the ARA include:

Boat Log - A board is positioned within the boatshop on which the details of each boat must be entered when that boat goes afloat on the water, whether crew-boat or single scull. The stroke of a crew boat, or the sculler, as appropriate, shall ensure that this is done. After the outing the entry is to be removed by the person who made the entry. This is an important precaution, which must be observed.

Emergency stop - All crews should regularly practise the emergency stop so that it is applied effectively when it is needed. If all members of an VIII do the same thing, the boat can be stopped within its own length from racing speed; if they do not, embarrassing chaos will ensue.

Pollution - Risks of contact with river water include Weil’s disease and the effects of green algae. Anybody having gross contact with the water or falling into the river should wash or shower thoroughly immediately afterwards. Green algae can cause skin irritations. Weil’s disease can show 'flu-like symptoms some time later, which can be the precursor to serious organ damage. Take medical advice if such symptoms occur.

Night Rowing - Rowing after dark is an established practice for many Tideway clubs and, to remain competitive, it is a practice that Cygnet will probably have to adopt. Potentially, rowing at night is hazardous and the Amateur Rowing Association believes that it should not be encouraged. By strictly adhering to the following code, risks can be reduced to an acceptable level.

1. Outings are only to be commenced, or continued, after sunset with the prior approval of the captain.
2. Night rowing is only to be conducted between Chiswick Bridge and Putney Bridge, where street lights and light from buildings help to illuminate the river.
3. Coxes/Steersmen should be familiar with the Tideway, its navigation rules and areas of potential danger; throughout the outing they should maintain a proper lookout.
4. Each crew, or sculler, rowing after dark must be accompanied by two coaches in a launch; one to watch the launch's course, and one to watch the crew. The launch must be equipped with an ARA approved safety kit and a powerful torch. It is recommended that coaches carry a mobile phone/radio to call for assistance in the event of an emergency.
5. Boats are to be clearly illuminated in accordance with PLA rules (TWO WHITE LIGHTS on racing craft).
6. Oarsmen should wear light coloured clothing. One member of each crew should wear a whistle on a cord around his neck.
7. In the event of the boat capsizing or sinking, individuals should first free themselves and then ensure the safety of crewmates. A "buddy system" should be adopted, whereby each pair in the boat (e.g. bow and 2) ensures that one another is safe. Stern pair and Cox should be responsible for one another. The crew should then "number off" as when adjusting, starting with bow and including the Cox, to ensure everyone is safe. Where possible, individuals should remain with the boat, both to make use of its buoyancy and to aid location.

The allocation of club boats to the various activities, crews, squads etc is the responsibility of the Captain, or the senior Club officer present. Do not use equipment without the express authority of the Captain or his nominee.

In general coaches will be aware of which boats are available for use by their respective squad or crews. Where boats have to be shared coaches will arrange mutually convenient schedules. Any conflict will be resolved by the Captain.

Some private equipment is available for club use. Again, such equipment may only be used with the express agreement of the owner, which the Captain will obtain.

Please treat all equipment with respect (e.g. boats, trailers, blades, launch, tools etc.)

Always check a boat before leaving the boathouse and again before leaving the landing stage. Ensure that there is no damage to the hull, that the bowball and heel restraints are in place, that stretchers are properly and symmetrically secured in their slots, that nuts are tight and there is no damage to fittings such as rudder controls. Having bits of the boat drop off midstream can be a nuisance as well as hazardous. At the end of the outing, undo the hatches where fitted to enable the boat to dry out.

IF YOU TAKE SOMETHING OUT MAKE IT YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO ENSURE THAT IT IS PUT AWAY AGAIN. It happens repeatedly that those who are at the boathouse at the end of a session and are closing up are left with the task of clearing up. This can include not only putting away odd trestles and the hose but also the launch, forgotten blades, seats etc which have been overlooked by crew members.

A coxswain is regarded in any claim, litigation, inquest or criminal prosecution as the "master" of the boat. Therefore, a boat should be steered by a competent coxswain who is familiar with the "Guide To Coxing" issued by the club. An exception may be when a launch is used for coaching as the coxswain can also be under instruction. However, if the launch has to retire owing to a malfunction the Cox will have to bring the boat back alone. A minimum level of competence should therefore be achieved before a Cox goes out in a crew boat. Age and maturity will play a part and judgement should be exercised accordingly when selecting a Cox.

In any urgent need, the cox's instructions immediately override those of any crew member, coach or, if necessary, race official.

ALL INCIDENTS ON THE RIVER, ACCIDENTS, NEAR MISSES AND INCIDENTS OF DAMAGE TO EQUIPMENT MUST BE REPORTED WITHOUT EXCEPTION IN THE REPORT BOOK ATTACHED TO THE NOTICE BOARD.

For incidents on the water the stroke of the crew involved must ensure entry of the details in the report book. Other incidents must be reported by those involved. All entries should be made on the day of the incident.

Reporting is particularly important since at intervals the committee must consider the incidents which have occurred and introduce any remedial measures which are necessary. Failure to keep proper records will prevent the committee from acting appropriately. In some circumstances this might be construed as negligence and might give rise to serious consequences for the club. The maintenance of such records is also a requirement of the ARA.

Worn or damaged equipment will only deteriorate further if not repaired. This applies particularly to equipment that is still serviceable to some extent (e.g. inadequately secured stretchers, slack or frayed rudder lines etc). By reporting such damage equipment can be repaired and returned to service quickly with benefits for all.

In general do not attempt to repair something yourself unless you are sure you are competent to do so, and you have the necessary tools and materials. Damage so repaired must still be reported. Makeshift repairs should be avoided. In particular major repairs, such as serious structural defects (e.g. broken shoulder) or hull penetrations (with the possible exception of pinholes), should be left for repair by experts.

The transport of boats and equipment by trailer or on car roof racks is potentially hazardous. Some rowing clubs have suffered serious accidents which have involved uninsured loss of equipment, injury and even fatalities in trailer accidents. The following applies as a minimum to trailing of boat club equipment.

• Only approved drivers with appropriate experience and with the prior consent of the Captain may transport club boats.
• The towing vehicle must have suitable third party insurance, which the driver must ensure is in place.
• The club expects crews whose equipment is being transported to ensure such equipment is stowed and secured on the trailer in a manner acceptable to the towing driver.
• The towing driver is legally responsible for the safety of the equipment towed and must check that everything is securely fastened in accordance with good practice and conforms to all legal requirements. This will include that all lights are in working order, the loads are correctly distributed to produce the correct DOWNWARD pressure on the towing vehicle, and that projections beyond the trailer are adequately marked, especially at night.
• Copies of "The towing of Boat Trailers" and the "ARA Trailer Drivers Handbook" are attached to the notice board and all drivers must be familiar with their contents.

Coaches carry responsibilities for those in their care and coaching should not be undertaken without awareness of the extent and nature of these responsibilities. The club encourages those with appropriate experience to pass on their knowledge to other members of the club but this must be done appropriately. Begin by speaking to the Captain who will advise you. The ARA runs courses in coaching and, again, you are encouraged to undertake such courses. Also, be aware of the "Notes for Coaches" issued by the club.

Those driving the coaching launch must have prior authorisation from the Captain. The launch may be used for rowing related purposes only. All those in the launch will each wear a lifejacket, or buoyancy aid, without exception. The launch must be adequately equipped on the river in accordance with the ARA recommendations. Equipment carried must include:

• Anchor and line
• First Aid kit (including thermal blankets)
• Sound signalling device
• Throwing rope
• Paddle
• Lifebuoy or similar device

This equipment and buoyancy aids will be available in the caboose in the boathouse. Drive responsibly, keeping a good lookout.

DO NOT FILL TANKS OR TRANSFER FUEL WITHIN THE CONFINES OF THE BOATHOUSE, INCLUDING THE SURFACE IMMEDIATELY IN FRONT OF THE BOATHOUSE DOORS. THE FIRE RISK IS FAR TOO GREAT, ALSO FUEL SPILLAGE CAN AFFECT WATER PROOFING.

All race entries will be handled by the Captain or his nominee. Entries must be submitted with correct details including ARA numbers and the appropriate fee. NO FEE, NO ENTRY.

Revised December 1998