Maintaining the safety of the public and staff on coastal beaches during COVID-19

This document has been produced for coastal beach managers and landowners, including councils and private organisations, and reflects the current experience of members of the National Water Safety Forum (NWSF), and other interested parties, who seek to reduce drowning and water-related harm in the UK.   In developing this document, we have also sought the views of international colleagues facing similar challenges.

Specifically, it is concerned with the following aspects of beach safety

• Mitigating the risk of fatal and non-fatal drowning and water-related injuries.
• The challenges and practical considerations of seeking to maintain social distancing at the beach.
• Assisting duty holders with the obligation to update their risk assessments and to consult with staff/volunteers on the implications.

The current document and other Coivid-19 related advice can be accessed here