In this procedure, words in italic text are defined terms which have the specific meanings set out in Gowrie Victoria Policies and Procedures – Definitions and Abbreviations.

Purpose

The purpose of this procedure is to ensure that children are safe when playing in or near water and are protected from water hazards when at the service or on excursions. Children’s safety and wellbeing will be protected in or around water through effective supervision and education.

Scope

This procedure applies to all staff members, volunteers, students on placement and contractors/labour hire employees of Gowrie Victoria.

Procedure Statement

Identification and protection from water hazards at the service

The early learning manager and educators will ensure that:

• all water play activities are adequately and actively supervised taking in the age and developmental needs of the children undertaking these experiences
• all water experiences are set up in higher traffic areas where they are close to garden beds or doors if outdoors and in central areas if indoors maximising supervision and ensuring these experiences are always supervised
• measures are put in place to reduce the likelihood of the hazard being triggered, including:
  • ensuring that any water play containers and portable water troughs are emptied after use and stored in a manner that prevents the collection of water when not in use
  • ensuring that educators actively supervise children around puddles
  • ensuring that tanks and buckets have child-proof lids and are stored out of reach of children
  • checking the service premises at the start of each day to ensure management of water hazards, this includes emptying any vessels or equipment that may have pooled water from rain, sweeping paths to remove puddles etc. as per the daily safety checklist
• measures are put in place to reduce the consequences of a hazard being triggered, including active supervision
• a risk assessment is undertaken for any water-based activity and risk reduction measures are included into work practices as required.

Identification and protection from water hazards during excursions

The national regulations require that a risk assessment is carried out before any excursion. There is a specific requirement to consider any water hazards and to specify generally how identified risks will be managed and minimised.

Preparation of the risk assessment for any excursion is the responsibility of the educator who will be in charge. Water safety must be specifically addressed in the associated risk assessment.

Water safety education

Early years leaders and educators will incorporate water safety into their education programs for children. Water play is part of children’s programs throughout the year, in line with intentional teaching practices. Early years leaders will provide information to families about  safety around water.

Authorisation

Approved by the Executive Manager, Early Learning

Name	Nicole Pilsworth
Signature
Date	18 October 2024

References

NQS Quality Area              QA2 Children health and safety

Procedure Status               Mandatory

Parent Policy                       Safe Environment Policy