RWC Injuries

Operating an RWC can be high risk. All persons involved in operating RWCs have a duty of care to prevent, as far as practicable, injuries from occurring.

It is important that Operators are fit for duty by ensuring they are in a physically and psychologically fit state to perform tasks assigned to them competently and in a manner that does not compromise their safety and health, or that of others. You must report duty-related injuries, pre-existing injuries, medical conditions, and/or medical plans that will/could affect your capacity to carry out duties as soon as practicable to your supervisor.

Operators need to be able to manoeuvre the RWC and assist patients in difficulty which requires lifting, pushing and pulling. Operators may be required to be on the water of long hours requiring standing and exposure to the elements. Operating an RWC may lead to jolting and bouncing. Pre-existing injuries such as soft tissue, unstable joints due to a dislocation or previous broken bones may increase your risk of injury. High risk areas during RWC operations include legs, wrists, hands or ankles.

There are common contributing factors to most injuries including:

• Negotiating the break.
• Freak waves.
• Loss of control of the RWC.
• Mechanical malfunction.
• Collision.
• Excessive speed.
• Incorrect operation of the RWC.
• Slip and fall.

General Mitigation Strategies:

• Prioritise safety as the primary consideration for all decisions.
• Ensure correct/ appropriate operating technique is utilised.
• Ensure appropriate use of speed and urgency to suit conditions and situations.
• Take care when negotiating the surf.
• Utilise the appropriate angle when negotiating waves.
• Avoid punching curling waves where possible.
• Understand the limitations of the RWC and the Operator and ensure you drive accordingly.
• Ensure regular training and upskilling occurs and that Operators remain current.
• Avoid operating the RWC for extended periods of time (especially in adverse weather e.g. wind, rain, extreme cold, extreme heat).
• Take regular breaks.
• Take care on slippery boat ramps and wear PPE especially helmets.

Common RWC Injuries

Injury Type	Contributing Factors	Consequences	Operator Mitigation
Sprain/Strain/Overuse	Improper lifting techniques Repetitive movements such as steering the RWC in rough water conditions. Overexertion during launch/retrieval and patient handling. Slippery boat ramps. Uneven surfaces during beach landings, launch, and retrieval activities	Muscle strain, sprain and soreness Commonly occur to legs, wrist, hand and ankles	Use proper lifting techniques. Maintain good posture. Conduct regular physical conditioning.
Bruise/Contusion	Impact with RWC, equipment, debris, surfaces or patients during rescue operations.	Localised pain, bruising and possible swelling	Ensure proper Operator positioning. Avoid unnecessary contact with equipment. Wear appropriate PPE.
Inflammation/Swelling	Repetitive use of muscles. Overexertion.	Swelling, discomfort and limited mobility.	Take regular breaks. Reduce repetitive strain.
Open Wound/Laceration/Cut	Contact with equipment, sharp objects, or debris. Slip and fall especially during boat ramp launches.	Open wound & bleeding. Risk of infection.	Wear gloves and appropriate PPE. Handle equipment with care. Inspect operating environment for hazards.
Fracture	Heavy impact. Incorrect Operator position. Improper posture during high-impact situations. Becoming dislodged from the RWC.	Broken bone, severe pain and possible immobilisation.	Use correct handling techniques. Ensure proper operating position. Maintain awareness of surroundings. Reduce risk by adhering to safety protocols.
Dislocation	Incorrect lifting technique or movement during RWC operations. Impact with wave and being hit by powerful surf.	Joint dislocation, severe pain and potential long-term damage.	Use correct manual handling techniques. Avoid overexertion. Ensure proper body alignment.
Concussion	Impact with water, RWC, or other objects.	Headache, dizziness, and blurred vision. Head injury. Potential unconsciousness.	Wear a helmet. Avoid high-speed collisions. Maintain control of the RWC.
Spinal Injury	High-impact situations. Improper patient handling. Falls. Poor posture. Incorrect lifting methods when handling heavy equipment.	Severe pain. Inability to move. Risk of permanent injury.	Use proper lifting and handling techniques. Avoid unnecessary strain. Stabilise patient when needed.
Hypothermia	Prolonged exposure to cold water or air during operations, especially during extended rescues or operations in cold conditions.	Shivering, confusion and fatigue.	Wear appropriate thermal PPE. Limit exposure time. Take regular breaks in a warmer environment
Dehydration/Heat Stress	Prolonged exposure to heat or sun during extended water operations. Extended periods on the water, especially in hot conditions, can lead to dehydration or heat exhaustion if proper hydration is not maintained.	Fatigue, confusion and dizziness. Possible heat exhaustion or heat stroke.	Stay hydrated. Take regular breaks in shade. Wear sun protection PPE.