Pre Site Visits
We recommend that you do a pre-site visit ahead of your river trip. Please contact us in advance for help with planning this.
Please ring 020 8742 0057 or email info@thames-explorer.org.uk
If your school is going onto the foreshore we recommend that you conduct your pre-site visit when the tide is low. We can advise you on tide times.
We can provide you with the following information
- Directions
- A map and travel information
- Model risk assessments
- Safety guidelines
- Details of which areas of the site we will be using
Foreshore health & Safety
We are the authors of the Health and Safety guidelines of the Thames foreshore.
- Model Risk Assessments are available on request but you should write your own.
- You will be sent safety advice with your confirmation pack.
- Safety guidelines for teachers bringing a class to the foreshore can be downloaded here.
- Safety guidelines for teachers bringing a class to a riverbank programme can be downloaded here.
Waterborne disease:
Pupils may come into contact with river water. In these circumstances, our staff will give appropriate advice. River water contains various micro-organisms, so there is a small possibility of contracting disease. If you experience any unusual symptoms after working on the river seek medical advice. Weil’s disease is uncommon in the UK but can be fatal if not treated promptly with antibiotics. Indicators are flu-like symptoms, vomiting, high temperature, persistent headaches and muscle pains. If any one of your party develops these symptoms within 3 weeks of a visit (although this is true at any time), seek medical advice referencing river water and Weil’s disease.
Thames Explorer Trust, Pier House, Corney Reach Way, W4 2UG 020 8742 0057
info@thames-explorer.org.uk www.thames-explorer.org.uk
Registered charity 1010903 Company number 02396145