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Singapore Sailing Federation Training Facilities Operations Safety Manual
Singapore Sailing Federation
Training Facilities
Incorporating the
National Sailing Centre and the facilities at Marina Reservoir
Operations Safety Manual
Singapore Sailing Federation Training Facilities Operations Safety Manual
Revision History
1st Edition 28 July 08
nd
2 Edition 21 April 09
3rd Edition 26 July 12
th
4 Edition 20 December 14
Copyright © Singapore Sailing Federation 2014
All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or
transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical,
including photocopying, recording, or any information storage and
retrieval system, without prior written permission from the publishers.
Copyright © SingaporeSailing 2014 2
Singapore Sailing Federation Training Facilities Operations Safety Manual
Contents
1. Foreword
2. SSF Safety Policy
2.1 Safety Objectives
2.2 Measuring Safety
2.3 Standard of Care
2.4 Responsibility of Staff, Coaches and Instructors
2.5 Overseeing Safety – the Safety Committee
Annex 2a – Terms of Reference of the Safety Committee
3. Staff Competency
3.1 Staff Competency Levels
3.2 Staff Responsibility for Competence
3.2 Ongoing Training & Simulations
4. Personal Safety for Sailors
4.1 General
4.2 Equipment
4.3 Sailing Areas
4.4 Launching and Recovery of Boats
4.5 Conduct on Water
Annex 4a - International Distress Signal
5. Safety Supervision by Coaches and Instructors
5.1 Pre-Activity Preparation
5.2 Pre-Activity Checks
5.3 First Aid Kit
5.4 Safety Briefing, Demonstration & Practice
5.5 Programme Changes
5.6 Monitoring Activity
5.7 Coaches’ Personal Safety
5.8 Operating Hours
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6. Weather
6.1 Weather Forecast
6.2 Wind & Sea State scales
6.3 Types of Adverse Weather
6.4 Criteria for Suspending and Resuming Activity
6.5 Decision Process Flow Chart
Annex 6a – The Thunderstorm Life Cycle
Annex 6b – Flag Signals
7. Lightning Safety
7.1 Lightning Information
7.2 Lightning Alert Criteria
7.3 Lightning Alert Action
7.4 Holding Area and Resumption of Sailing
7.5 Lightning Strike and First Aid
Annex 7a - General Information on Lightning
8. Haze
8.1 Monitoring PSI Readings
8.2 Haze Action Plan
Annex 8a – NEA’s Haze Action Plan
9. Training Safety
9.1 General
9.2 Boat Launch
9.3 During Sailing
9.4 Capsize & Recovery
9.5 Coming ashore & Boat Recovery
10. Training Zones
10.1 Training Zones and Boundaries at NSC
11. Emergency Response
11.1 Types of Foreseeable Emergencies
11.2 Emergency Preparedness
11.3 Emergency Response Sequence
11.4 Communications & Decision-making Flowchart
11.5 Incident Management – Roles & Responsibilities
11.6 Training Activity During and After Rescue
11.7 First Aid Support
11.8 Rescue and Towing
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11.9 Search & Rescue
11.10 Evacuation Points
11.11 Incident Report and Event Logging
11.12 Emergency Response Scenario Training
Annex 11a – Emergency Contact Details
Annex 11b – Emergency Radio Protocol
Annex 11c – Incident Event Log
Annex 11d – Incident Report Form
12. Centre Operations
12.1 Tractor Operations
12.2 Refueling and POL storage
12.3 Boat Operations
12.4 Facilities safety
12.5 Fire prevention and safety
13. Safety Inspections
13.1 Equipment Checks and Inspections
13.2 Retirement of Equipment
13.3 Facilities Inspections
14. Risk Assessment Management
14.1 Introduction to Risk Management
14.2 Risk Assessment
14.3 Risk Matrix
14.4 Likelihood of Occurrence of Accident/Incident
14.5 Determining the Risk Level
14.6 Risk Control Options and Decisions
14.7 Action for Risk Levels
14.8 Effective Supervision
14.9 Think Safe, Play Safe, Stay Safe
14.10 Step Management Process of RAM
14.11 Activity-based Risk Assessment Forms
Copyright © SingaporeSailing 2014 5Singapore Sailing Federation Training Facilities Operations Safety Manual 1. Foreword This Manual has gone through 3 reviews since it was put together in 2008 and there is probably not much that can be added to the contents. Nevertheless, it is prudent for the Federation to comb through it to ensure that the information and guidance that the Manual provides is up to date and relevant. The Manual is intended to serve all levels of personnel who are involved with the promotion of sailing in Singapore, from maintenance crew, to coaches and administrators of various facilities and services that support sailing activities. Ensuring safety is even more critical as sailing is now reaching out to a greater number of younger sailors, many of whom will be introduced not just to a dynamic sport in an Island Nation, but also to an activity that has much potential to inculcating good habits and moulding character. The sailing playground also offers a natural environment for the pursuit of a sport that is filled with adventure at sea and elements of the great outdoors. Under such conditions, the risk associated with participating in sailing is often higher than in sports which are conducted in a more sedate environment. Sailing’s challenging environment is a necessary ingredient that contributes to the process of grooming and moulding character and imbuing positive values in our young. In this particular review, the Federation has identified the need to incorporate some risk assessment contents in some of the key areas of its operations, including the training process and delivery of other services at its training facilities, in an effort to contain these risks and make sailing as safe as it possibly can be at various levels of participation. This Manual cannot cover all areas of best practices, nor can it address all concerns at our affiliated sailing clubs, marinas and centres around Singapore. Individual establishments have their own operational characteristics. So feel free to adapt any of the contents in this Manual to suit your own needs. Feel free, too, to consult us. Dialogues will be mutually beneficial and will probably also have learning points for our other partners in sailing. Towards safer sailing in Singapore! Tan Wearn Haw CEO, Singapore Sailing Federation Copyright © SingaporeSailing 2014 6
Singapore Sailing Federation Training Facilities Operations Safety Manual
2
SSF Training Facilities
Safety Policy
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2. Training Facilities Safety Policy
SingaporeSailing endeavors to protect staff, students, public and facilities by constructing,
operating and maintaining buildings and by adopting procedures, which minimize the risk of
injury or damage from known hazards.
SingaporeSailing has identified the standards to which its training facilities – namely the
National Sailing Centre (NSC) & Marina Bay Sailing must be maintained and operated to
serve its end-users safely and adequately. Collectively, these standards ensure that every
activity or programme offered by these training facilities is held in what is considered to be
a relatively safe environment and is conducted in an appropriate manner.
Staff, students and other users of the SingaporeSailing premises or its training facilities
shall adhere to these standard safety practice guidelines.
Everyone has responsibility for the safety of themselves and others around them.
2.1 Safety Objectives
Ultimately, the goal of any safety programme or system is to prevent loss. It is
more challenging for an outdoor sport like sailing where risk is an inherent part of
the activity. However, with the careful design, selection and management of
programmes, equipment and facilities operated by competent staff who exercise
sound judgment, this goal is attainable. The safety objectives of SSF Training
Facilities are:
2.1.1 To prevent and eliminate foreseeable accidents that could lead to
fatalities and disabling injuries.
2.1.2 To reduce the frequency of injuries, incidents and near misses.
2.1.3 To systematically and continually identify, manage and reduce hazards
and risks in all aspects of our operations.
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2.2 Measuring Safety
How will we know if we have achieved our objectives?
How do we measure improvement in our safety management?
The objectives we have set mean that accidents, incidents and near misses need to
be reported, measured and tracked. They also imply that there is a continual
process to identify risks and hazards before they even lead to incidents/accidents.
2.2.1 An incident report must be filed with the designated CSO for every
incident that happens.
2.2.2 Incident data will be compiled and reviewed by the Safety Committee
who will analyse the mechanisms / causes behind them and implement
measures to reduce or prevent them.
2.2.3 All members of the staff are required to report previously unidentified
risks, hazards and near misses to the CSO or Safety Committee.
2.2.4 An annual safety report will be compiled to summarise the safety data
and the measures taken to improve safety.
2.3 Standard of Care
2.3.1 SSF training facilities must be able to respond in a timely manner to any
reasonably foreseeable emergency event that threatens the health and
safety of the facility users.
2.3.2 The SSF training facilities and PUB shall have an appropriate emergency
plan that can be executed by qualified personnel in a timely manner.
2.3.3 Each staff/person who has supervisory responsibility for an activity,
programme or area at SSF training facilities must demonstrate
professional competence in that activity, programme or area.
2.3.4 Appropriate signage shall be posted to alert users to the risks involved
in their use of those areas of the facility that present potential
increased risk(s).
2.3.5 The facility shall conform to all relevant laws, regulations, and
published standards.
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2.4 Responsibility of Staff, Coaches and Instructors
Collectively, the management and staff of SingaporeSailing owe a duty of care to
the students who participate in the sailing and coaching programmes at any of its
training facilities. While coaches and instructors play a vital role in carrying out
this duty, all staff, regardless of their roles, has a part to play in upholding the
standards of safety in its training facilities.
2.4.1 As leaders of their squads/groups, coaches / instructors are to make
programme decisions based on the following priorities (in that order):
a) The safety of their participants, themselves and third parties.
b) The learning objectives of the programme
c) Their participants' comfort and convenience
On no occasion should they make programme decisions based on their
own comfort and convenience without satisfying the above.
2.4.2 All staff/persons responsible for supervising / supporting an activity or
programme must be personally competent in that activity / programme
area and familiar with the training environment, including any potential
hazards / risks.
2.4.3 Where appropriate, safety briefings should be conducted on
programmes / activities where the sailors are novices operating in a
new environment, e.g. on courses where the students are learning to
sail for the first time.
2.4.4 It is the responsibility of coaches / instructors to supervise the activity
and be alert to emergencies that may arise.
2.4.5 Where possible and especially for novice programmes, coaches /
instructors should be in a position to be able to observe the sailing
activity and prevent potential accident situations from developing.
2.4.6 All staff must stop without hesitation, any dangerous activity or if there
is any doubt about overall safety.
2.4.7 Ultimately, sailing is an autonomous sport and the level of supervision
provided will depend on the average competency level of the sailors
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being supervised. Pitching the level of supervision to provide will
require experience and judgment on the part of the coaches /
instructors. If in doubt, coaches/instructors should consult the CSO.
2.5 Overseeing Safety – the Safety Committee
The Safety Committee shall comprise the following 3 levels:
2.5.1 The Chief Executive Officer/Management levels
a. These individuals will have substantially equivalent work
experience and shall be knowledgeable in the areas of
programming and operations.
b. Managers overseeing sailing operations should have a current
professional certification in the sailing industry, have earned a
valid first-aid certification and have evidence of work experience
in the sailing industry.
2.5.2 Coaches/Instructors/Operations staff
a. They are responsible for providing instruction, guidance and
motivation to the facility users.
b. They should have a current professional certification in the sailing
industry, have earned a valid first-aid certification and have
evidence of work experience in the sailing industry.
2.5.3 Support Staff (counter)
Support staff should have completed first-aid training.
2.5.4 The Chief Executive Officer shall chair the Safety Committee and
provide overall steering and guidance.
2.5.5 Technical expertise and operational experience will be provided by the
senior and middle-management levels of the organization, in particular,
those with responsibilities for operational safety.
(The Terms of Reference of the Safety Committee is at Annex 2a.)
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Annex 2a
Terms of Reference of the Safety Committee
Purpose
The SSF Safety Committee is established to establish and review safety policies,
procedures and practices in the operations of the NSC and training facilities at Marina
Reservoir. The Committee provides oversight of the safety aspects of all sailing and
coaching programmes conducted at the NSC and the training facilities at Marina Reservoir.
Composition
The Committee shall comprise the following:
a) Chairman – CEO SingaporeSailing;
b) Management level staff
c) Coach / Instructors / Operational Staff
d) Other Support Staff
Functions
The primary function of the Committee is to make decisions and address issues relating to
the safety policies / procedures of all programmes and operations conducted at SSF training
facilities.
The following areas would fall under the purview of the Safety Committee (SC):
a. To evaluate and endorse the Design and Safety Systems of New Programmes,
Equipment, Facilities and Operational Areas.
b. To oversee regular Training Safety visits by staff and monitor ground safety
practices.
c. To analyse the incident data for significant trends and gaps for improvement.
d. To review the reports of any significant safety incidents and make procedural
changes if necessary.
e. To review and update, from time to time, the SSF Operations Safety Manual.
f. To initiate an investigation into any accident or near miss (where relevant) and
make recommendations on safety issues involved.
g. To submit an Annual Safety Report on SSF training facilities Operations to the
President.
h. To plan and test the emergency response and crisis management procedures in all
it training facilities.
i. To review the annual safety training plan for SSF staff.
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3
Staff Competency
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3. Staff Competency
The better that people know their jobs and how their jobs relate to other aspects of the
organization, the better they perform and the better the service they provide to the user.
Formal training and professional certification are vital components to ensure that the
training facilities are managed by qualified and knowledgeable staff to provide users with a
relatively safe and satisfying experience in the programmes and activities.
3.1 Staff Competency Levels
3.1.1 The Chief Executive Officer/Management levels
c. These individuals will have substantially equivalent work
experience and shall be knowledgeable in the areas of
programming and operations.
d. Managers overseeing sailing operations should have a current
professional certification in the sailing industry, have earned a
valid first-aid certification and have evidence of work experience
in the sailing industry.
3.1.2 Coaches / Instructors/ Facilities Supervisor / Operations staff
c. They are responsible for providing instruction, guidance and
motivation to the facility users.
d. They should have a current professional certification in the sailing
industry, have earned a valid first aid certification and have
evidence of work experience in the sailing industry.
3.1.3 Support Staff (counter)
Support staff shall have completed first-aid training.
3.1.4 In order to be able to respond to an emergency within an appropriate
time period, all coaches / instructors are required to possess valid first-
aid certification, though this may vary due to staff turnover or other
reasons. They will be supported by administrative staff who posses valid
first-aid certification.
3.2 Staff Responsibility for Competence
Each staff/person who has supervisory responsibility for an activity programme or
area at SSF training facilities at Marina Reservoir must demonstrate professional
competence in that activity programme or area.
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3.2.1 Training that has been identified by SSF as mandatory will be provided
for appropriate staff to carry out their respective safety responsibilities.
3.2.2 Staff should have the necessary certification and have undergone
familiarisation training or assesment with an experienced staff (to be
determined by SSF) before being cleared to operate a powered vessel,
sailing craft or vehicle.
3.2.3 Staff using new equipment should have trained on and become familiar
with the equipment, or been certified competent in it before applying
in a training session/programme.
3.2.4 Staff operating in a training area for the first time must undergo prior
ground familiarisation with an experienced staff.
3.2.5 New operational staff joining SSF, should go through an induction
programme and a series of staff attachments to understand the
operations of all its training facilities
3.3 Ongoing Training and Simulations
3.3.1 It is the responsibility of all staff to attend the necessary training
arranged for them to maintain currency in their respective
certifications.
3.3.2 All staff who have supervisory responsibility for any programmes must
also maintain currency their knowledge and skills through their own
personal training and development.
3.3.3 All staff must be familiar with SSF training facilities safety procedures
and systems, and attend all necessary safety training, simulations and
briefings.
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4
Personal Safety
for Sailors and
Participants
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4. Personal Safety for Sailors and Participants
4.1 General
4.1.1 Safety has top priority in all activities that take place at SSF training
facilities.
4.1.2 All sailors and particpants are to comply with safety instructions given
by the coaches / instructors / organising staff and the safety regulations
laid down by SSF.
4.1.3 Sailors and participants must properly don their life vests and keep
them on at all times whilst on the water.
4.1.4 Sailors and participants must be appropriately attired and take
necessary preventive measures against excessive sunburn.
4.1.5 Appropriate footwear should be used to avoid injuries from coral, rocks
and debris.
4.1.6 Sailors should be able to swim at least 50m in tidal conditions, wearing
a life vest.
4.1.7 Sailors on crafts must stay clear of swimmers and give due regard and
consideration to other watercrafts.
4.1.8 Sailors should be aware of their own limitations, the limitation of their
craft and should not venture beyond their capabilities.
4.1.9 All sailors and participants must strictly adhere to all safety regulations
set down by the relevant authorities, International Sailing Federation
and Singapore Sailing Federation.
4.2 Equipment
4.2.1 Sailors and participants must use suitable life vests approved by the
centre (e.g. approval by US Coast Guard or equivalent).
4.2.2 Sailors using the equipment belonging to any of SSF training facilities
must abide by the rules and regulations at these training facilities.
They are responsible to check the equipment for seaworthiness before
setting out to sea.
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4.2.3 Sailors using their own sports equipment should check their equipment
for seaworthiness before setting out to sea. All repairs of defects
should be carried out before setting out to sea.
4.2.4 Any defects or damages to equipment belonging to any of the training
facilities must be reported immediately to the Service Centre, the
facility supervisor or the respective teachers-in-charge (who must then
forward the report to the Service Centre).
4.2.5 All equipment must be thoroughly cleaned and properly stored after
use.
4.3 Sailing Areas
4.3.1 As far as possible, sailors should keep their sailing activity to within the
assigned areas of the respective training facilities and must adhere to
all instructions given by the coaches/instructors or safety personnel.
4.3.2 Sailors should avoid impeding the safe navigation of other crafts, which
because of their size or restrictions may render it necessary for small
crafts to give way to them.
4.3.3 Sailors must observe all local rules and regulations governing the
conduct of crafts when navigating in local waters and Marina Bay
reservoirs.
4.3.4 Sailors should avoid sailing in main shipping channels or fairways unless
on transit. Such crossing should be undertaken as expeditiously as
possible, at right angles to the direction of the channel of fairway, and
should not cause any obstruction to shipping traffic.
4.4 Launching and Recovery of Boats
4.4.1 Sailors training with SSF training facilities are not permitted to launch
their boats without the permission of their facility supervisor, their
coaches / instructors or teachers-in-charge. The training facility
management or supervisor is empowered to override the decision of
coaches / teachers whenever deemed necessary
4.4.2 Sailors who come late are to inform the service centre to contact their
coach on the water via VHF or mobile phone.
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4.4.3 Sailors should launch or recover their boats with care and consideration
to other users.
4.4.4 Sailors should keep clear of tractor movements when launching their
craft.
4.4.5 Sailors should take care to avoid overhead obstructions (e.g. trees)
while launching their craft.
4.5 Conduct on Water
4.5.1 Every sailor is responsible for his/her own safety and shares the
responsibility to look after the safety of fellow crew and participants.
4.5.2 Sailors must always keep a proper lookout at all times and avoid
collision.
4.5.3 Sailors should, without endangering himself/herself, render all
necessary assistance to all other crafts in difficulty.
4.5.4 Sailor must keep a lookout for changes in weather conditions, in
particular, thunderstorms, heavy squalls and/or haze, which may make
them difficult to detect by other crafts.
4.5.5 Sailors and participants must stay by their craft if they capsize or fall
into the sea. They should attempt to conduct self-recovery. When this is
not possible, they should signal and wait for assistance. They must not
abandon their craft unless facing imminent danger.
4.5.6 When in difficulty and in need of assistance, sailors should slowly and
repeatedly raise and lower arms outstretched to each side in a
deliberate manner (see diagram in Annex 4a).
4.5.7 In the event of an impending storm or lightning warning, the siren at
the NSC and Marina Barrage may sound. Upon hearing the siren, sailors
should head immediately for shore or take instructions from their
coaches or supervisor.
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Annex 4a
International Distress Signal
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5
Safety Supervision by
Coaches, Instructors &
Facility Supervisor
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5. Safety Supervision by Coaches, Instructors & Faciltiy Supervisor
All programmed activity at SSF training facilities should be supervised. While it is vital to
have good emergency plans, experience in managing outdoor and sports programmes have
shown that most of accident prevention work lies in sound preparation, anticipation of
danger and close supervision.
The level of supervision, however, may depend on the sailing abilities of the sailors and the
demand of the environment as assessed by the coaches /instructors. Autonomy may be
given to advanced level sailors to train by themselves
5.1 Pre-Activity Preparation
5.1.1 As an integral part of their instructional work, coaches / instructors
must spend time in pre-activity preparation.
5.1.2 Such preparation work would involve reviewing the lesson plans, safety
procedures, participants’ profile, training areas, weather forecast, etc.
5.2 Pre-Activity Checks
Coaches / instructors / facility supervisor must make the following checks before
the start of the training / sailing session as follows:
Equipment
5.2.1 All safety equipment to be used in their training programmes.
5.2.2 To lead students in novice programmes to conduct equipment checks on
their own equipment.
5.2.3 A 50m swim test with life vests is to be conducted for novice sailors who
are using their life vests for the first time. Participants in one off
experiential sailing programs eg. Sailfun, are need not do the swim test.
Environment
5.2.4 Check the weather forecast for the day and observe the sky, clouds,
wind direction & speed, etc.
5.2.5 Check tides tables for tide times and direction of tidal flow. This
should be compared against visual indicators like actual water level
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with reference to high and low water marks.
5.2.6 Prior to training in a new environment, a recce should be done to be
familiar with the training area, to identify hazards, etc.
5.2.7 Review maps of the training area to familiarise with boundaries, tidal
flow, possible hazards, etc.
Participants
5.2.9 Check that participants are feeling well prior to each session.
5.2.10 Check on participants’ hydration, especially on a hot day. Ensure that
they carry filled water bottles with them during the training.
5.2.11 Check that participants wear the proper attire and are adequately
protected from sunburn.
5.2.12 Check participants’ personal equipment, e.g. donning of life vests,
footwear, properly-rigged boat, etc.
5.2.13 Record participants’ names and mark them against their boat numbers
at launching time. Keep a look-out for latecomers who may join the
group on the water.
Communications
5.2.14 Coaches / instructors must equipped with VHF radios in waterproof
pouch before going on the water.
5.2.15 Conduct a radio check with the front desk/service centre/facility
supervisor.
5.3 First-Aid Kit
5.3.1 Coaches / Instructors / Facility supervisor are to check that their boats
are equipped with first-aid kits before going out on the water.
5.3.2 Coaches / Instructors should check that their first-aid kits are well
stocked & waterproofed.
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5.4 Safety Briefing, Demonstrations & Practice
5.4.1 Coaches / instructors / Facility Supervisor are to conduct a safety
briefing prior to any activity that involves an element of risk.
5.4.2 Where relevant, demonstration on the use of equipment should be
conducted in addition to a safety briefing.
5.4.3 Actual practice of a capsize drill have to be carried out with
participants except in Marina Bay reservoirs.
5.5 Programme Changes
5.5.1 Programme changes may be made due to weather or other reasons but
instructors need to inform the CSO or Facility Supervisor..
5.5.2 Where programme deviation affects compliance with safety procedures
or involves additional risk, approval must be sought from the CSO.
5.6 Monitoring Activity
During the activity, coaches / instructors / Facility Supervisor are to:
5.6.1 Constantly monitor the activity, the participants and the environment
and be alert to potential emergencies.
5.6.2 Position themselves where they can properly observe and supervise the
activity and endeavour to anticipate and prevent accident situations
from developing.
5.6.3 Make regular head counts of sailors and their sail craft.
5.6.4 Stop any potentially dangerous activity, e.g. significant breach of safety
procedures, safety rules of racing, etc., that may expose participants to
the risk of injury.
5.7 Coaches’ Personal Safety
5.7.1 While monitoring the safety of participants, coaches / instructors must
also look after their own personal safety as well.
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5.7.2 All coaches / instructors are to keep their life vests on at all times
while afloat.
5.7.3 Coaches / instructors piloting powerboats should fix on the kill cord to
their thigh while the powerboat is in operation.
5.7.4 They should also set a positive example for sailors under their charge in
abiding by safety regulations and guidelines in other ways, e.g. wearing
proper attire, footwear, caring for equipment, etc. Coaches /
instructors who fail to abide by safety regulations and guidelines risk
facing disciplinary action by the Federation.
5.8 Operating Hours
5.8.1 All sailing activity is strictly confined to the daylight operational hours
and the scheduled operational hours (9.00am to 6.45pm) of the training
facilities day. In special cases, for advanced sailors or during regattas,
sailing could continue until sunset at 7.00-7.15 pm.
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6
Weather
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6. Weather
The weather is one of the critical factors that affect safety in sailing activities. Being able
to obtain and disseminate timely and accurate weather information and having a clear plan
of action is vital in managing SSF training facilities and its sailing programmes safely.
6.1 Weather Forecast
6.1.1 Daily and weekly weather forecast can be obtained from various sources:
a) NEA Meteorological Services – NEA website (www.nea.gov.sg)
b) NEA’s Weather Fax-on-demand (6542 7789)
c) Lightning Warning System (Tel No. 6282 6821)
Items a)-c) will be monitored by the NSC Front Desk and facility
supervisor for Marina Bay reservoirs.
6.1.2 Instructors / coaches can monitor the weather online but should check
against their visual assessment as local weather can change quickly
during stormy days and the weather forecast may be of limited use.
6.1.3 The CSO (or anyone assigned by the CSO) may also broadcast any storm
or lightning warnings over the radio to coaches/instructors on the water.
6.2 Wind & Sea State Scales
6.2.1 The Beaufort Scale will be used to describe wind and sea states.
6.2.2 SSF staff should familiarize themselves with the Beaufort Scale and learn
to correlate them with wind speed and sea conditions.
6.2.3 They should be used to communicate wind and sea state conditions.
6.2.4 This should be incorporated as part of the training of sailors.
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6.3 Types of Adverse Weather
6.3.1 Types of adverse weather likely to be encountered at NSC and Marina
Reservoir include: thunderstorms with lightning threat and strong winds,
heavy rain with reduced visibility, unpredictable rain squalls called
“Sumatras” during the SW Monsoon, strong winds and rough sea,
waterspouts, etc.
6.3.2 Coaches / instructors must constantly scan the environment and assess
weather conditions, especially impending weather on the horizon and
the prevailing wind.
6.3.3 Coaches / instructors on the water should relay local weather
observations to the CSO if they foresee that impending weather may
affect safety.
6.4 Criteria for Suspending and Resuming Activity
6.4.1 The following criteria will be used for assessing the suspension of sailing
activity:
a. Impending thunderstorms (Category One lightning alert) with
visual confirmation that the thunderstorm is approaching
rapidly. This can also be cross-checked by timing the flash-to-
bang intervals (See Section 7 Annex).
b. Heavy downpours or haze leading to poor visibility of less than
100m.
c. Strong winds reaching Force 5 (25 knots) or higher on the
Beaufort Scale. This criterion depends on the capability of the
fleet and the sea conditions. Advance level sailors may still be
able to operate at 25 knots while lower ability sailors may have
to return to shore at a lower wind speed. Sound judgment
should be exercised on the part of the coaches / instructors.
d. Environmental haze at unhealthy levels (PSI 100 or higher).
e. Emergence of unusual weather phenomena, e.g. waterspouts.
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f. Occurrence of oil or toxic chemical spills in the vicinity.
6.4.2 The Duty Officer will make the decision to suspend sailing activity due to
weather or safety concern and issue a recall via VHF radio.
6.4.3 Upon receiving the recall order, coaches / instructors whose fleets are
being recalled are to conduct a head count and instruct their sailors to
return to shore.
6.4.4 Some recalls may not be for all fleets and some fleets may just be
required to approach the shore while the training facility management
or supervisor assesses the situation.
6.4.5 Fleets that have been approved by the Duty Safety Officer (DSO) are
cleared to launch under coach supervision when the yellow flag is raised.
Depending on the capability of the fleet and sea conditions. (See Annex
6b)
6.4.6 The yellow flag will be lowered when adverse weather conditions
subside and training for all fleets can resume subject to the coaches’
and instructors’ decisions.
6.4.7 In the event of poor visibility due to a sudden downpour or bad haze
situation, a white flashing strobe light may be positioned at the
breakwater to signal the location of NSC for returning sailors training at
sea.
6.4.8 Coaches / instructors should assist to guide the sailors in towards NSC or
other training facility.
6.4.9 Coaches / instructors are to conduct a roll call after all sailors have
returned to NSC or other training facility.
6.4.10 The staff at the service centre are to standby on the beach to assist the
recovery of all sailors once they’re back to shore.
6.4.11 The CSO, with the assistance of the SC, will ensure that there are no
more sailors on water by visual checking and checking with attendance
file.
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6.4.12 CSO will activate the emergency response plan to rescue any sailor
caught in bad weather.
6.4.13 A black flag is to be raised and kept flying while the suspension on
sailing is still in effect.
6.4.14 Decision to resume sailing activity will be made by the Duty Officer after
adverse weather has subsided.
6.4.15 CSO will broadcast an “All Clear” over the VHF radio to all coaches /
instructors upon the decision to resume sailing activity. The black flag
will be lowered.
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6.5 Decision Process Flow Chart
Weather Weather Local
forecast instruments Observations
Suspend activity:
CSO consults with /
informs GM
End
Suspend
CSO issues weather
sailing? No advisory
Yes
CSO broadcasts
recall
Coaches / instructors
bring sailors back to
shore safely
Coaches / instructors
conduct roll call and
report to CSO
Coaches / instructors
conduct roll call and
report to CSO
Activate Emergency Need for
Response Plan Yes rescue?
No
Resume activity:
CSO consults with /
informs GM
End
Resume
Maintain watch on
sailing? No weather
Yes
CSO broadcasts
all clear
End
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Annex 6a
The Thunderstorm Life Cycle
All thunderstorms, whether or not they become severe, progress through a life cycle which
may be divided into three main stages. The developing stage, called the cumulus or
towering cumulus stage, is characterized by updraft. As the updraft develops, precipitation
is produced in the upper portions of the storm. As the precipitation begins to fall out of the
storm, a downdraft is initiated.
At this time, the storm enters its mature stage. The mature stage is marked by a co-
existence of updraft and downdraft within the storm. When the downdraft and rain-cooled
air reach the ground, the rain-cooled air spreads out along the ground and forms the gust
front. Usually the winds associated with the gust front are not severe, but in extreme
cases, a downburst can develop and produce severe wind gusts.
Eventually, a large amount of precipitation is produced and the storm becomes dominated
by downdraft. At the ground, the gust front moves out a long distance from the storm and
cuts off the storm's inflow. This begins the dissipating stage of the thunderstorm. Even
though this thunderstorm has dissipated, its gust front may trigger new thunderstorms as it
lifts warm, moist, unstable air.
(http://www.tsgc.utexas.edu/stars/tslife.html Texas Weather Network)
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Annex 6b
Applicable to NSC only
A. “No Sailing” Signal
The “Black” flag will be raised
followed by 3 (Three) long sirens.
Black Flag
B. “All Clear” Signal
The “Black” flag will be lowered
followed by 1 (One) long siren.
Black Flag
C. Launching for selected Fleets only
The ‘Yellow” flag will be raised
followed by 3 (Three) long sirens.
Yellow Flag
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7
Lightning Safety
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7. Lightning Safety
Singapore experiences about 180 thunderstorm days per year and has one of the highest
incidence of thunderstorms and lightning in the world. Thunderstorms occur more
frequently in the months of April to May and October to November. They happen most
frequently from 2-6 pm but may occur at any time of day.
Lightning is a significant environmental danger not only for sailors on the water but also for
people out in the open on land. The most important strategy to deal with lightning hazards
is to have early warning, avoid lightning-prone areas and objects; and seek shelter. The
response to lightning warning follows the same steps as those for impending severe
weather.
7.1 Lightning Information
7.1.1 Information on lightning alert status for various sectors in Singapore
may be obtained from the Lightning Warning System (Tel No.
62826821). The surrounding golf courses are also equipped with local
lightning warning systems which provide early warning for the vicinity.
7.1.2 On a clear day, the Front Desk shall check lightning alert status if any
coach / instructor on the water visually observes and reports a change
of weather conditions over the VHF.
7.1.3 When build up of thunderclouds are visible (cumulonimbus), updating of
lightning alert status shall be made hourly or twice hourly.
7.1.4 Coaches / instructors must constantly scan the environment and assess
weather conditions, especially impending weather that may bring
lightning.
7.1.5 Coaches / instructors on the water should relay any sightings of
lightning to the CSO even in the absence of a lightning warning. They
should be on standby mode in the event that the lightning is
approaching rapidly.
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7.2 Lightning Alert Criteria
7.2.1 The following are situations that may activate a lightning alert and
suspension of all sailing activity:
a) Category One alert (from lightning warning system)
b) Visible lightning that is fast approaching.
7.2.2 When in doubt, CSO should double-check with visual observations,
coaches / instructors on the water and exercise judgment.
(CSO should be experienced in sailing and weather reading in order to
make good judgment call utilizing all available data.)
7.3 Lightning Alert Action
7.3.1 Upon activation of lightning alert, CSO will broadcast lightning warning
to all coaches / instructors on the water and activate sirens for the
LWS.
7.3.2 Once the alert is sounded, all sailing activity should cease. All coaches /
instructors are to conduct a headcount and instruct sailors to return to
shore.
7.3.3 Coaches / instructors are to conduct a roll call after all sailors have
returned to NSC.
7.3.4 The staff at the service centre are to standby on the beach to assist the
recovery of all sailors once they are back to shore.
7.3.5 The CSO, with the assistance of the SC, will ensure that there are no
more sailors on water by visual checking and checking with the
attendance file.
7.3.6 If there are still coaches on water and unable to hear the LWS
activation, information should be transmitted via VHF.
7.3.7 CSO will activate the emergency response plan to rescue any sailors
caught in bad weather.
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7.4 Holding Area and Resumption of Sailing
7.4.1 After coming ashore, all sailors are to proceed under shelter indoors,
within the multi-purpose hall or a designated safe structure.
7.4.2 No one is to walk around outdoors or de-rig their boats until the All
Clear is sounded.
7.4.3 The black flag is to be raised while the suspension is still in effect.
7.4.4 Decision to resume sailing activity will be made by the CSO after the
lightning risk has subsided. Wait a minimum of 30 minutes from the last
observed lightning or thunder before resuming activities.
7.4.5 CSO will broadcast an “All Clear” over the VHF radio to all coaches /
instructors upon the decision to resume sailing activity. The black flag
will be lowered.
7.5 Lightning Strike and First Aid
7.5.1 See Annex 7a for a list of lightning do’s and don’ts.
7.5.2 In the event of a lightning strike near or at the centre, CSO will
determine if anyone has been hit or any property damaged or set on
fire.
7.5.3 In the case of power failure or trip, action to be taken to reset the
circuit breakers.
7.5.4 People who have been struck by lightning do not carry an electrical
charge and are safe to handle.
7.5.5 Apply first aid immediately and contact emergency services.
7.5.6 In the event of multiple casualties, treat those who appear dead first.
7.5.7 Immediately administer CPR to restore breathing and continue until
medical help arrives. Eighty percent of lightning strike victims survive
the shock.
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7.5.8 Common lightning after effects include impaired eyesight and loss of
hearing. Electrical burns should be treated as other burns.
7.5.9 To ensure rapid response to lightning victims SSF shall strive towards a
target of 100% coaching staff and 70% other staff to be trained in first-
aid (which includes CPR and the use of the AED).
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Annex 7a
General Information on Lightning
A. Lightning Do’s and Don’ts
• Seek shelter in a "hard top" vehicle (with windows up) or solid building. These provide
protection by conducting the lightning to earth around you.
• Avoid small structures or fabric tents. These lack sufficient mass to conduct a lightning strike
safely around you, and depending on the method of construction, may attract lightning.
• Never shelter under a single tree or a small group of trees. As the highest point in that area,
the tree is likely to be struck. Being near the tree increases the risk of step potential.
• If far from shelter, crouch alone with feet together, preferably in a hollow. This will keep
you as low as possible without creating a step potential risk. Remove metal objects from
your head and body.
• Don't lie down (step potential) and avoid being the highest object.
• Don't fly kites or model aeroplanes with control wires.
• Don't handle masts of boats, fishing rods, umbrellas or golf clubs, etc.
• Stay away from metal poles, fences, clothes lines, etc.
• Don't ride horses, cycle or drive in open vehicles.
• If driving, slow down or park away from trees, power lines, etc. Stay inside metal-bodied
(hard top) vehicles or caravans but don't touch any metal sections.
• If swimming, surfing, etc., leave the water immediately.
• If boating, go ashore to shelter as soon as possible. A bridge or high jetty may offer
immediate protection.
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B. Facts and Myths
• When struck, people do not glow or "fry to a crisp", but the heart and breathing are often
affected.
• Only about 30% of people struck actually die, and the incidence of long term disability is low,
particularly when first aid is applied promptly.
• If your clothes are wet, you are less likely to be seriously injured if struck, as most of the
charge will conduct through the wet clothes rather than your body.
• Lightning can and does strike in the same place more than once!
• Worldwide, thunderstorms are producing approximately 6,000 lightning strikes every minute!
(Source: Oberon SES Resources - Outdoor Lightning Safety Page 2 of 3
http://oberon.ses.nsw.gov.au/resources/LIGHTNIN.HTM 2/2/2008)
C. Estimating the distance of lightning
The time between seeing a lightning flash and hearing the thunder it produces is a rough guide to how
far away the lightning was. Normally, thunder can be heard up to 10 miles (16km) from the lightning
that makes it. Lightning heats the air around it to as much as 60,000 degrees, producing sound waves
by the quick expansion of the heated air. Since light travels at 186,000 miles per second, you see the
lightning the instant it flashes. But sound, including thunder, travels about a mile (1.6km) in five
seconds near the ground. If 15 seconds elapsed between seeing a lightning bolt and hearing its
thunder, the lightning was about three miles (4.8km) away. Lightning closer than about three miles
away is a warning to take shelter immediately. Successive lighting strikes are often two to three miles
apart (3.2 – 4.8km). If the first stroke is three miles away, the next one could hit you.
(Source: Ronald Holle, National Severe Storms Laboratory)
If you feel your hair standing on end, and/or hear "crackling noises" - you are in lightning's electric
field. If caught outside during close-in lightning, immediately remove metal objects (including
baseball cap), place your feet together, duck your head, and crouch down low in baseball catcher's
stance with hands on knees.
Teach this safety slogan:
"If you can see it, flee it; if you can hear it, clear it."
(Lightning Safety for Campers and Hikers - National Lightning Safety Institute
http://www.lightningsafety.com/nlsi_pls/ploutdoor.htm)
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8
Haze
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8. Haze
Haze is an environmental problem caused by air pollution due to smoke from the burning of
forests and fossil fuels. Past smoke haze episodes happened largely within the period of
May to October. Singapore is likely to be impacted by smoke haze when there are
forest fires in the region and the prevailing Southwest Monsoon winds blow the smoke from
the fires in our direction.
Haze affects sailing activity through its impact on visibility and health. Reduced visibility
at severe haze levels compromise our ability to manage safety out on the water. Haze also
affects the health of those involved, causing breathing difficulties, with earlier onset for
those with pre-existing medical conditions.
8.1 Monitoring PSI Readings
8.1.1 During a period of moderate haze (PSI 51-100) the CSO will monitor the
PSI readings at 3-hourly intervals.
8.1.2 Haze advisory and PSI readings can be obtained from the NEA website:
http://app2.nea.gov.sg/anti-pollution-radiation-protection/air-
pollution-control/psi/psi-readings-over-the-last-24-hours
8.1.3 CSO will update current PSI readings via VHFs to coaches / instructors
and sailors on water. Announcement may be made via PA system.
8.2 Haze Action Plan
A) At moderate haze levels: (PSI 51-100)
8.2.1 Coaches /instructors are to screen the sailors for pre-existing
respiratory illnesses – e.g. asthma, etc. and look out for signs of
difficulty during training (breathing problems, skin or eye irritation,
coughing and sneezing, etc.).
8.2.2 Coaches / instructors are to check that any participant with a history of
asthma have their inhalers with them. Participant need to inform his /
her friend or the coach / instructor where the inhaler is placed.
Coaches / instructors should offer to safe-keep the inhaler or be aware
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of where it is kept so that they can locate it in the event of an
emergency.
8.2.3 Any sailors experiencing problems, regardless of the PSI level, are to be
returned to shore. Those with acute respiratory symptoms must be
evacuated immediately.
B) When haze reaches unhealthy levels (PSI 100 or more):
8.2.4 ALL sailing activity must stop.
8.2.5 A single long siren will be sounded and CSO will recall all sailors via VHF
radio to coaches / instructors.
(Refer to the NEA’s Haze Action Plan at Annex 8a)
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Annex 8a
NEA’s Haze Action Plan
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9
Training Safety
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9. Training Safety
The following are the safety procedures for normal sailing training off NSC:
9.1 General
9.1.1 Coaches / instructors should do all required pre-activity checks before
the sailing training session.
9.1.2 Squad Coaches are to do an operational check on their respective
crafts’ condition, safety lines and their portable marine VHF radio
before setting out to sea.
9.1.3 Service Center / facility supervisor is required to monitor and record
the number of rescue and training boats available at all times and to
standby at least ONE operationally ready safety boat at the pontoon
during peak sailing activity.
9.1.4 Radio communication must be maintained at all times. Cellular phone
may be used as a secondary means of communication.
9.2 Boat Launch
9.2.1 Sailors are to launch their boats at the designated stretch of beach
supervised by their respective coaches. National Squad sailors may be
permitted to launch their boat unsupervised.
9.2.2 All sailors are to be briefed to stay clear of tractor traffic and overhead
obstructions while launching their boats.
9.2.3 Boat trolleys must be kept in a safe and orderly manner to prevent
obstruction to other sailors.
9.2.4 Except for National Squad, coaches should endeavour to have their
coach boat in the water before any sailboat launches.
9.2.5 In rough water conditions (big waves & surf), coaches or service centre
staff should be on hand to supervise or assist in the launch of sailboats.
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9.3 During Sailing
9.3.1 All Squad Coaches must conduct regular headcounts of sailboats in the
water.
9.3.2 Any dangerous activity or horseplay that may lead to accidents must be
stopped immediately.
9.3.3 Coaches of novice and learn-to-sail programmes should try to keep their
sailboats from straying out of the designated sailing area.
9.4 Capsize & Recovery
9.4.1 All Squad Coaches must ensure that all sailors under their charge are
conversant with capsize & recovery procedures.
9.4.2 Squad Coaches must be vigilant to keep a look out for capsizes,
especially in strong wind conditions, and check that the sailor(s) surface
immediately.
9.4.3 Squad Coaches must take action immediately if a sailor does not surface
from a capsize.
9.4.4 Sailors having difficulty up-righting their boats should signal for rescue.
9.5 Coming Ashore & Boat Recovery
9.5.1 Squad Coaches must escort the last sailboat to shore before going
ashore.
9.5.2 Coaches are to conduct a headcount or roll call after the training
session to verify that all sailors have returned to shore.
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10
Training Zones
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10. Sailing / Training Zone Area
National Sailing Centre
The sailing training area in front of the NSC has been segmented into eight zones to
facilitate management of increasing training activities. These zones are further subdivided
in 4 sectors each. This is overlaid on the sea chart displayed on the Safety Information
Board and at Service Centre which will be updated from time to time.
Marina Bay / Barrage
The sailing training area in Marina Bay is demarcated with yellow buoys. Sailing activities
are restricted withning the zone.
(Please refer to Annex 10a)
10.1 Training Zones and Boundaries
10.1.1 Coaches / instructors should become familiar with the layout of the
various zones.
10.1.2 Novice and learn-to-sail programmes should endeavour to stay within
their designated zones.
10.1.3 To avoid congestion, fleets may be assigned certain zones within which
to conduct their training.
10.1.4 During emergencies, location information can be conveyed with
reference to the zone layout.
10.1.5 Environmental hazards to avoid may also be mapped onto the zone
layout.
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