PSS 9.7 Duty Officer Pre-Operation Checklist

Purpose

To provide a guideline for Duty Officer start-of-shift requirements.

Policy

The on-shift Duty Officer shall be contactable via radio and/or mobile phone at all times. If for unplanned or temporary reasons the Duty Officer is uncontactable the Duty Officer shall inform SurfCom of such (prior to and once back in contact).

Procedure

1. Ensure the correct uniform is worn.
2. Check radio and phone are charged.
3. Check the contents of the Duty Officer Kit.
4. Conduct radio check with SurfCom and ‘sign-on’ 15mins prior to commencement of first lifesaving services.
5. In conjunction with SurfCom:
   1. Ensure SurfCom holds correct mobile phone number.
   2. Discuss forecast weather and surf reports and expected beach patronage.
   3. Discuss possible high-risk localities, periods and contingency plans.
   4. Discuss any actual or potential service shortfalls.
6. Listen to lifesaving services morning sign-on.
7. Visit or contact lifesaving services of identified/expected high-risk locations to discuss management planning.
8. Where a lifesaving service is found in breach of their lifesaving service requirements, the Duty Officer in consultation with lifesaving service shall assist the lifesaving service to rectify the problem both immediately and long term.