5.8. Sand Structures Collapse

The purpose of this guideline is to outline the hazards associated with digging sand holes at the beach, and to highlight how lifeguards can control it as a risk.
Sand structures/digging cause hazards because: -

• Sand obscures other hidden hazards such as munitions, glass, and other sharp objects
• Sand can become ‘boggy’ and unstable when nearing down towards sea level
• Sand is unstable that can’t be trusted and can collapse at any time (especially hazardous with tunnels)
• A toddler is obscured from view when digging inside a deep hole and cannot be seen in the event of a collapse
• Holes present uneven surfaces to Lifeguards when responding to an incident on foot and while operating vehicles especially at times of poor light, bright sunlight or when looking out to sea.
• Digging into the side of a dune to creates an unstable overhang that can collapse at any time
  

GUIDELINES FOR LIFEGUARDS

• Discourage sand digging where possible
• Observe best practice guidelines when advising beach patrons from participating in any dangerous activities
• The lifeguard’s observation of the water should not be compromised in this situation