Purpose
To outline requirements for Side by Side SSVs in lifesaving operations.
Policy
All SSV drivers must be at least 17 years of age and:
- Hold a current and proficient driver’s licence (provisional or open);
- Be a financial Surf Life Saving member or employed lifeguard (on active duty).
All SSV drivers must:
- Be inducted in the operation of the specific SSV by a nominated club/service officer.
Procedure
Introduction
Side by Side All Terrain Vehicles (SSVs) enable suitably qualified lifesaving personnel to be more mobile and capable of quickly responding to emergencies both inside and outside of their patrolled area.
Operational Policy
All SSVs are to meet SLSA gear and equipment specifications. These specifications are outlined at: www.sls.com.au.
Single Seat (Quad Bikes) are no longer to be used by clubs/members for Surf Life Saving operations. Any use of ‘quads’ forfeits coverage by the association’s insurance policy for any member/club/service involved in an incident.
SSVs shall abide at all times with speed limits and all relevant laws and regulations relating to vehicles (including registration, speed, seatbelts, red-lights and parking). Speed should be minimised at every opportunity. SSVs are not exempt from any fines and infringements, including during emergencies.
Local government and/or state regulations in relation to speed must be adhered to at all times.
The SSV should not exceed 20km/h under normal operating conditions. The speed limit for heavily populated areas and between the red and yellow flags is 5km/h.
It is the operator’s responsibility to evaluate the environment to determine a safe and appropriate speed within these limits.
SSVs shall minimise speed and shall operate with headlights on at all times. Passengers should not exceed maximums set within the SSV owner/operator manual.
Flashing lights and headlights should be turned on whenever ‘underway’. If using two lights, the colours should be red and amber combinations. If using a single light, the colour should be only amber.
UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES ARE FLASHING LIGHTS TO BE USED ON ROAD.
Registration
All SSVs must be conditionally registered via Service NSW annually.
Rescue Equipment
All on-duty SSVs shall carry the following lifesaving equipment and hold the following safety items:
- Rescue board
- Rescue tube & fins
- Radio
- Loud Hailer/PA System
- Reverse beepers (shall activate whenever in reverse)
- Flashing light (shall activate whenever SSV is moving)
- SSV must have side doors/barriers
No SLS Vehicle is permitted to use a siren on a road or carriageway. Sirens and lights are strictly for beach use only.
Any modifications including roll bars, carry racks and storage containers must adhere to manufacturer’s guidelines and be carried out in consultation with the manufacturer or dealer.
Vehicle Branding
Branding for all Surf Life Saving SSVs shall comply with the SLSA Equipment and Uniform Branding Policy. This policy can be obtained through the SLSA Members Portal.
Reference
SLSA Approved Gear and Equipment Manual
SLSA Brandbox (Branding guidelines) Manufacturers guidelines