Health and Safety

Health and Safety for Outrigger Paddling

Outrigging is a water sport, hence there is every chance that you WILL get wet. Be aware of your own limitations and don’t attempt to do anything on the water that could place you or any other crew member in danger.

Here are a few things to think about:

• Be aware of the water conditions – Newcastle Harbour is fed by the ocean and the Hunter River, so water conditions can vary considerably even within the Harbour.
• After periods of rain (either in the City or further inland) debris of all sizes can be found floating in the Harbour – this can impact ALL watercraft on the Harbour.
• Newcastle can be affected by those pesty East Coast Lows, so wind is another thing to take into consideration (AOCRA forbids the use of outriggers in areas where Gale Force wind warnings are in place).
• It is a salt water environment, and we all know what lives in the ocean. Stockton Bight is rumored to be a great breeding ground not only for prawns, but lot bigger creatures with lot bigger teeth.

So keep your eyes open, listen to the steerers/coaching staff and be aware of others – we all want to enjoy the sport.

At all times we must respect our environment and keep safe.

Personal Requirements and Responsibilities

Fitness test
AOCRA regulations state that each paddler must be able to swim 400m and tread water for 10mins. Each paddler must be tested annually to ensure compliance. NOCC conducts swim/huli tests annually to ensure our paddlers meet this requirement. Until a paddler achieves these requirements they may continue to paddle but will be required to wear a PFD (Personal Floatation Device). NOCC has a supply of PFDs for training sessions and races, but most paddlers prefer to use their own. Ask the coach about what PFDs are suitable  for outrigging.

Drug and Supplement Usage
The use of performance enhancing drugs is strictly prohibited by NOCC. The AOCRA website have full details on anti-doping policies.
Alcohol is not advised to be consumed prior or during a paddling session. Boating rules apply the same as a car license.

New or Pre-existing Medical Conditions
If you have a new or pre-existing medical condition you must get written approval from your GP indicating that Outrigging will not impact or worsen your medical condition.

Pregnancy
If you are pregnant and wanting to continue training,  you must go to your GP and obtain a medical clearance listing any restrictions/limitations to your training schedule.

Sun protection
As we are on the water during daylight hours NOCC recommends wearing:

• sports water sunblock;
• a long sleeve rash shirt;
• hat; and
• sunglasses.

You should see medical advice for any sun spots that have appeared or you are concerned about.

Hydration
Hydration is very important in our sport. Before training or a regatta race, we recommend you start hydrating 2 hours prior. Depending on the weather, drink a minimum of 1-2 litres of water. It is also a very good idea to wear a camelpak hydration hose system during a race to top up your water levels (approx 600ml per hour). After a race it is optional to drink some Hydralyte to increase your electrolytes and salt within the body.

Hypothermia
Hypothermia is a concern when paddling in cold/windy conditions or when your body cools down after a race. Wear warm protective thermals or a wind jacket.