Safety by the Water Since 1972

Rescue equipment should be installed where it is clearly visible, easy to reach, and positioned close to high-risk areas.

Equipment works best when it can be seen and accessed instantly, without barriers such as locked gates or obstacles. Many sites use spacing of around 50 to 100 meters, depending on the level of risk. Lifebuoys and throw lines should be mounted at a height that most people can reach easily, and rescue ladders must extend both above and below the typical waterline. Placement should focus on areas where accidents are more likely, such as narrow pontoons, busy boarding points, or locations with strong currents. Before installation, it is good practice to carry out a risk assessment and consider any local guidelines from authorities or insurers.

Most sites benefit from regular visual checks and at least one thorough professional inspection each year.

Frequent visual checks, performed weekly or monthly depending on the environment, help ensure that equipment is present, intact, and accessible. More detailed inspections should be carried out annually, or twice a year in harsher environments with saltwater, ice, or strong sunlight. These inspections look closely at corrosion, wear, UV damage, signage, and functionality. Additional checks are recommended after storms, construction work, or suspected vandalism. The exact interval depends on the site’s climate, visitor traffic, and manufacturer recommendations, but consistent and documented inspections are key to maintaining reliability.

Marine environments require corrosion-resistant metals and UV-stable plastics that can withstand long-term exposure to water, sun, and weather.

Stainless steel in marine grades, hot-dip galvanized steel, and well-designed aluminium are commonly used because they handle corrosion and harsh conditions well. Plastics such as UV-stabilized polyethylene and polypropylene are durable choices for lifebuoys and housings, while fiberglass composites offer high strength in ladders and protective cabinets. Accessories such as fixings and ropes also need to resist corrosion and UV exposure to maintain safety over time. Good design details, such as drainage, rounded edges, and non-slip surfaces, are just as important as the material itself.

A complete rescue station should include a flotation device, a retrieval aid, clear instructions, and protection that keeps the equipment ready for immediate use.

Most rescue stations include a lifebuoy with a throw line as the primary rescue tool, supported by nearby aids such as a rescue ladder or pole. Clear instructions and pictograms are essential so that anyone can use the equipment correctly, even under stress. A protective cabinet or housing helps shield the equipment from weather and vandalism while still allowing quick access in an emergency. Many stations also include location markings, emergency numbers, and optional elements such as lighting or integration with alarm systems. The exact setup depends on the environment, but the goal is always fast, intuitive use.

Responsibility usually lies with the organization that owns or operates the area, though the exact structure varies between countries and site types.

In most cases, the property owner or operator is responsible for installation, maintenance, and inspections of safety equipment. For public waterfronts, this is often handled by local or regional authorities. In marinas and ports, the harbor or marina operator may have specific duties defined through regulations or operational agreements. In some setups, responsibility is shared through leases or contracts, such as when a municipality owns a quay but a private company operates part of the area. Because rules differ across regions, each site should clearly define responsibilities, follow applicable local safety expectations, and document inspection routines as part of its safety management approach.