Return to Boating Update – Summary

Updated: 1st April 2021

These Guidelines have been produced from Guidance produced by RYA Northern Ireland and in accordance with the NI Executive Pathway to Recovery and SportNI Pathway out of Restrictions guidance. The decision to go boating lies with the individual and it is essential you are familiar with the full and current regulations.

Guidance is based on the Pathway presented in the ‘Covid 19 Framework for a return to boating activity in Northern Ireland’.

Below is our summary Guidelines for members;

From 1st April;

• The Club is permitted to operate with limited activity as outlined. Outdoor facilities may reopen.
• Kinnego Marina including Jetty and slipway access is permitted to facilitate limited activity as outlined. This includes boat upkeep and maintenance.
• Where social distancing of 2 metres can be maintained, two households (up to a maximum of 10 individuals) can be in the same boat. This may exclude certain boats where this is not possible.
• Group gatherings of 2 boats are permitted as long as they are restricted to two households and social distancing is adhered to.
• No group gatherings greater than two households are permitted. Club racing or organised social sailing is not permitted however individual boats may sail within guidelines.
• Activity should be undertaken above deck with no mixing of households below deck unless in an emergency.
• No dinghy group sailing permitted. Guidelines on group sailing in smaller crafts and dinghies (and with mixed crew where social distancing is not possible) are still to be advised.
• Staying overnight on a boat is not permitted.
• Sailing is permitted on individual multi-handed craft, above deck, from 2 households when social distancing is possible.
• Club Racing is not permitted.
• Safety cover should not be expected.
• The Club House remains closed – with the exception of the use of toilet facilities.
• Indoor facilities must remain closed, with limited exceptions, until further notice.
• Vaccination is NOT considered a mitigating factor. Mitigations are focused on methods to minimise the risk of transfer of infection – masks, distancing, hand sanitation, limiting face to face, etc.

If we are challenged by the public when participating in boating activity as long as we are operating within these published guidelines refer them to the available guidance maintained on the club website.

From 12th April;

• Racing is still not permitted.
• Changing rooms remain closed.
• The clubhouse remains closed.

In addition to the guidance offered above;

• Organised training is permitted for up to 15 participants per group (including coaches/ safety) at any one time, irrespective of age. Any 2 groups cannot mix and must be kept apart with control measures ashore to ensure this. There should be social distancing by individuals/ household group within the group of 15.
• Additional guidelines are available for working parties, committee meetings etc. but due to the limitations (10 from 2 households) LNSC deems these to be not permitted at the moment.
• Safety cover permitted when mitigated.
• The Club will further advise on any training opportunities made available on an individual course basis.

Reference documents:

FAQs On Return to Boating

RYANI Return to Boating Framework Step 2 Guidance March 2021 – 1st April

Return to Sailing Update 16th March

As announced today, restrictions for outdoor activity are set to ease from 1st April. This is very welcome news. Our understanding is that this should include boating activity, however, we await the issuing of the Regulations and guidance from the Department to understand implications in full. We have summarised the announcement below and will issue full guidance as soon as possible.

Although this announcement is welcome and further details are to follow, our current guidance remains in place, where club and watersports facilities must remain closed.

From April 1, the regulations will change to:

Permit 10 people from two households to undertake outdoor sporting activities as defined in the regulations. This allows sports such as golf and tennis to resume from this date in small groups of individuals from two households, however, clubhouses and sports facilities including changing rooms, showers, kitchens, meeting rooms must remain closed apart from essential toilet facilities.

The Executive also agreed on an indicative date of April 12 for:

Allowing for sports training to resume by sports clubs affiliated with recognised Governing Bodies, in small groups of up to 15 people but with all indoor spaces closed except for essential toilet facilities

LNSC will provide additional information on how it affects or proposed sailing activities as soon as details are clarified.

Executive announcement:

http://www.executiveoffice-ni.gov.uk/news/executive-agrees-number-early-relaxations-covid-19-regulations

LNSC Committee

LNSC Latest Guidance for the period from 26th December (inclusive).

Following updates from NI Executive, RYANI, and in consultation with the Marina, Kinnego Marina will close for a 6 week period from 26th December with a review after 4 weeks.

As a result, there should be no activity at such venues for anything other than for the purposes of carrying out essential checks on boats for the duration of the lockdown period.

Please stay safe over the holidays and we look forward to a brighter and active new 2021 sailing season.

LNSC Committee

LNSC Latest Guidance:

With recent NI Executive, Department announcements, and updates from RYANI Thursday 10th December the following update is provided.

Organised sailing activities are permitted from 11th December. This will allow racing for groups of 15 with groups over 15 permitted with suitable mitigations and risk assessment in place. Racing for those from different households may take place providing strict mitigations are followed. Relevant class mitigations are listed below.

The Clubhouse still remains closed at this stage.

LNSC

Kevin Cushnahan
Club Covid-19 Officer

The statement above overrides the following Key points listed below (These guidelines will most likely be reinstated in two weeks time)

Key Points

• The Club designated Covid-19 Officer is Kevin Cushanhan
• Participants must be familiar with Club Covid-19 Guidelines available online at www.loughneaghsailingclub.org/coronavirus-policy/
• A pre-symptoms check is a key element of managing risk (Ask yourself should I attend?)
• Current restrictions limit gatherings to 15
• Pre-booking online for ‘contact and trace’ requirements is required visit www.loughneaghsailingclub.org/events
• Normal social distancing protocols to be followed onshore – 2m
• Sailing with someone from another household is permitted provided mitigations of risks  are in place
• Maintaining a regular ‘crew bubble’ will assist in mitigating risks, irregular crew is not permitted
• Clubhouse use NOT permitted except individual use of toilet
• Club Racing/Dinghy Racing (Single and Double-handed) and the provision of OOD/Safety Cover is permitted provided risks are mitigated – see specific guidelines
• Avoid social gathering – Sail and Go Home

Single-Handed Dinghies

• Pre-symptoms check (Should I attend)
• Participant must be familiar with Club Guidelines
• Pre-booking online for ‘contact and trace’ requirements is required. Visit www.loughneaghsailingclub.org/events
• Sanitise hands on arrival
• Rigging on ‘Yellow Dots’ required
• Maintain proper social distancing (2m) ashore and while rigging / derigging
• Clubhouse remains closed (Except individual limited use of toilet)
• Avoid social gathering – Sail and Go Home

Double- Handed Dinghies

• Pre-symptoms check (Ask yourself should I attend) If in doubt don’t attend
• Pre-booking online for ‘contact and trace’ requirements is required. Visit www.loughneaghsailingclub.org/events
• Maintain good hand hygiene – sanitise your hands upon arrival
• Rigging on ‘Yellow Dots’ required
• Sailing in double-handed dinghies is permitted provided there is adequate mitigation of risks in place
• Sailing with irregular crew is not permitted. Maintaining a regular crew (crew bubble) will assist in mitigating risks
• Maintain proper social distancing (2m) ashore and while rigging / derigging
• When sailing, if unable to maintain more than 1m separation then maintain at least 0.5m separation between crew with other non-face to face mitigation.  Face coverings may be utilised.
• Consider the use of a face covering (mask, snood) 
• Avoid face-to-face contact and avoid raised voices / shouting
• Avoid social gathering – Sail and Go Home

Keelboats

• Pre-symptoms check (Ask yourself should I attend) If in doubt don’t attend
• Participant must be familiar with Club Covid-19 Guidelines www.loughneaghsailingclub.org/coronavirus-policy/
• Pre-booking online for ‘contact and trace’ requirements is a MUST
• Sanitise hands on arrival
• Boat should be sanitised or left for 72 hrs prior to use
• Keelboat Sailing/Racing is permitted while mitigating Risks
• Maintaining a regular ‘crew bubble’ will assist in mitigating risks
• Irregular crew is not permitted
• Organise manoeuvres to maximise social distancing and avoid face to face where this would normally occur
• When sailing, if unable to maintain more than 1m separation then maintain at least 0.5m separation between crew with other non-face to face mitigation.  Face coverings may be utilised.
• When >1 person below deck limit duration to less than 5 minutes & regularly clean shared surfaces, face coverings should be worn
• Avoid face-to-face contact and avoid raised voices / shouting
• Clubhouse remains closed (Except individual limited use of toilet)
• Avoid social gathering – Sail and Go Home

Safety Boat

• Safety Boat Cover is permitted provided mitigation of risks
• Safety Boat Helm advice MUST be adhered to at ALL times
• Boat helm must ensure boat is sanitised or left 72 hrs prior to use
• Safety boat Crew is permitted providing risks are mitigated
• When operational, if unable to maintain more than 1m separation then maintain at least 0.5m separation between crew for limited periods with other non-face to face mitigation.  Face coverings may be utilised.
• Face coverings should be used for safety boat crew and rescued individuals (where appropriate)
• Avoid face-to-face contact and avoid raised voices / shouting
• A recovered sailor should be considered close contact and registered
• Avoid social gathering – Sail and Go Home

Clubhouse / Social Activity

• The Clubhouse remains closed  (Except individual use of toilet)
• No social functions or gatherings are permitted (Sail and Go Home)

Lough Neagh Sailing Club Return to Sailing Guidelines

Download the full Guidelines here.

Guidelines below are based on the assessment of risk available here.

Key Updates:

Lough Neagh Sailing Club have taken a cautious approach in its approach to Covid-19 and we continue to keep up-to-date with any regulations issued from the NI Executive, SportNI and RYA Northern Ireland. We aim to produce guidance that permits our members to sail safely and within the guidelines. We would encourage our members to do the utmost to keep themselves and others safe by restricting the spread of Covid-19

Following discussions and further clarification on the latest NI executive Guidance, RYANI has revised its latest guidance for the outlined ‘active period’ = 4 weeks from 18:00 Friday 16th October.   This is reflected in the LNSC Risk Assessment and Guidance to members. 

The following guidance is anticipated to cover the period of 4 weeks from 1800, Friday 16th October 2020

Key points are listed below with any notable updates underlined. It should be noted everyone should adhere to the recommended guidance of good hand hygiene, wear face coverings where appropriate and practice social distancing where possible.

As a requirement the designated Club Covid-19 Officer is Kevin Cushanhan.

Kevin Cushnahan
LNSC Committee

Key Points

• The Club designated Covid-19 Officer is Kevin Cushanhan
• Participants must be familiar with Club Covid-19 Guidelines available online at www.loughneaghsailingclub.org/coronavirus-policy/
• A pre-symptoms check is a key element of managing risk (Ask yourself should I attend?)
• Current restrictions limit gatherings to 15
• Pre-booking online for ‘contact and trace’ requirements is required visit www.loughneaghsailingclub.org/events
• Normal social distancing protocols to be followed onshore – 2m
• Sailing with someone from another household is permitted provided mitigations of risks  are in place
• Maintaining a regular ‘crew bubble’ will assist in mitigating risks, irregular crew is not permitted
• Clubhouse use NOT permitted except individual use of toilet
• Club Racing/Dinghy Racing (Single and Double-handed) and the provision of OOD/Safety Cover is permitted provided risks are mitigated – see specific guidelines
• Avoid social gathering – Sail and Go Home

Single-Handed Dinghies

• Pre-symptoms check (Should I attend)
• Participant must be familiar with Club Guidelines
• Pre-booking online for ‘contact and trace’ requirements is required. Visit www.loughneaghsailingclub.org/events
• Sanitise hands on arrival
• Rigging on ‘Yellow Dots’ required
• Maintain proper social distancing (2m) ashore and while rigging / derigging
• Clubhouse remains closed (Except individual limited use of toilet)
• Avoid social gathering – Sail and Go Home

Double- Handed Dinghies

• Pre-symptoms check (Ask yourself should I attend) If in doubt don’t attend
• Pre-booking online for ‘contact and trace’ requirements is required. Visit www.loughneaghsailingclub.org/events
• Maintain good hand hygiene – sanitise your hands upon arrival
• Rigging on ‘Yellow Dots’ required
• Sailing in double-handed dinghies is permitted provided there is adequate mitigation of risks in place
• Sailing with irregular crew is not permitted. Maintaining a regular crew (crew bubble) will assist in mitigating risks
• Maintain proper social distancing (2m) ashore and while rigging / derigging
• When sailing, if unable to maintain more than 1m separation then maintain at least 0.5m separation between crew with other non-face to face mitigation.  Face coverings may be utilised.
• Consider the use of a face covering (mask, snood) 
• Avoid face-to-face contact and avoid raised voices / shouting
• Avoid social gathering – Sail and Go Home

Keelboats

• Pre-symptoms check (Ask yourself should I attend) If in doubt don’t attend
• Participant must be familiar with Club Covid-19 Guidelines www.loughneaghsailingclub.org/coronavirus-policy/
• Pre-booking online for ‘contact and trace’ requirements is a MUST
• Sanitise hands on arrival
• Boat should be sanitised or left for 72 hrs prior to use
• Keelboat Sailing/Racing is permitted while mitigating Risks
• Maintaining a regular ‘crew bubble’ will assist in mitigating risks
• Irregular crew is not permitted
• Organise manoeuvres to maximise social distancing and avoid face to face where this would normally occur
• When sailing, if unable to maintain more than 1m separation then maintain at least 0.5m separation between crew with other non-face to face mitigation.  Face coverings may be utilised.
• When >1 person below deck limit duration to less than 5 minutes & regularly clean shared surfaces, face coverings should be worn
• Avoid face-to-face contact and avoid raised voices / shouting
• Clubhouse remains closed (Except individual limited use of toilet)
• Avoid social gathering – Sail and Go Home

Safety Boat

• Safety Boat Cover is permitted provided mitigation of risks
• Safety Boat Helm advice MUST be adhered to at ALL times
• Boat helm must ensure boat is sanitised or left 72 hrs prior to use
• Safety boat Crew is permitted providing risks are mitigated
• When operational, if unable to maintain more than 1m separation then maintain at least 0.5m separation between crew for limited periods with other non-face to face mitigation.  Face coverings may be utilised.
• Face coverings should be used for safety boat crew and rescued individuals (where appropriate)
• Avoid face-to-face contact and avoid raised voices / shouting
• A recovered sailor should be considered close contact and registered
• Avoid social gathering – Sail and Go Home

Clubhouse / Social Activity

• The Clubhouse remains closed  (Except individual use of toilet)
• No social functions or gatherings are permitted (Sail and Go Home)

Following an announcement by the executive on 14th October the Club Risk Assessment and guidance has been updated. Sailing is still permitted, with this recent update not affecting sailing but more focused on hospitality. Key points are listed below with any notable updates. It should be noted everyone should adhere to the recommended guidance of good hand hygiene, wear face coverings where appropriate and practice social distancing.

The designated Club Covid-19 Officer is Kevin Cushanhan.

Whilst sailing, there will be particular times where you will likely come into closer contact with those you are sailing with. This may be for a relatively short period of time or it may be for longer. If the interaction is relatively fleeting or short-term, the risk is relatively low.

Key Points

• The Club designated Covid-19 Officer is Kevin Cushanhan
• Pre-symptoms check is a key element of managing risk (Should I attend?)
• No restrictions imposed on gatherings for organised outside sports sessions The Club has a self imposed limit of 30
• Participant must be familiar with Club Covid-19 Guidelines
• Pre-booking for ‘contact and trace’ requirements is REQUIRED
• Clubhouse use NOT permitted except individual limited use of toilet
• Club Sailing/Racing/Safety Cover is permitted while mitigating risks
• Cruiser and Dinghy Sailing (Single and Double-handed) is permitted provided risks are mitigated

Dinghies

• Pre-symptoms check (Should I attend)
• Participant must be familiar with Club Guidelines
• Pre-booking a MUST for ‘contact and trace’ requirements
• Sanitise hands on arrival
• Rigging on ‘Yellow Dots’ required
• Clubhouse remains closed (Except individual limited use of toilet)
• Double handers permitted only while mitigating risks
• Sailing with someone from another household permitted while mitigating risks

Double- Handed Dinghies

• Sailing in double-handed dinghies will be permitted provided there is adequate mitigation of risks
• Pre-symptoms check (Should I attend) If in doubt don’t attend
• Maintain good hand hygiene – sanitise your hands upon arrival
• Sailing with irregular crew is not permitted. Maintaining a regular crew (crew bubble) will assist in mitigating risks
• When sailing with someone from another household, if unable to maintain more than 1m separation then maintain at least 0.5m separation between crew with other non-face to face mitigation. Face coverings may be utilised.
• Consider the use of a face covering (mask, snood) 
• Avoid face-to-face contact and avoid raised voices / shouting
• Maintain effective social distancing while rigging / derigging

Keelboats

• Pre-symptoms check (Should I attend)
• Participant must be familiar with Club Covid-19 Guidelines www.loughneaghsailingclub.org/coronavirus-policy/
• Pre-booking for ‘contact and trace’ requirements is a MUST
• Keelboat Sailing/Racing is permitted while mitigating Risks
• No restrictions on gatherings for organised outside sports sessions
• Sailing with someone from another household permitted while mitigating risks
• Sanitise hands on arrival
• Clubhouse remains closed (Except individual limited use of toilet)

Safety Boat

• Safety Boat Cover is permitted provided mitigation of risks
• Safety Boat Helm advice MUST be adhered to at ALL times
• Helm prepares the boat and derigs, sanitising before and after
• Face coverings should be used for safety boat crew and rescued individuals (where appropriate)
• Safety boat Crew is permitted providing risks are mitigated

Clubhouse / Social Activity

• The Clubhouse remains closed  (Except individual limited use of toilet)
• No social functions or gatherings are permitted (Sail and Go Home)

Covid-19 Guidelines (Updated 28th August 2020)

General Guidelines

• Individuals with COVID symptoms are not to enter or participate in activities/ club facilities.  Follow government guidelines for self isolation. Ask yourself the question; Do I have any symptoms? Should I attend?
• In the absence of NI- specific guidance on indoor numbers, limited access may be permitted for boating-related activity. Use of toilet: The Clubhouse is to remain closed for social use to all members excluding committee for urgent maintenance requirements and socially distanced committee meetings, Members may use the toilet facilities if essential. The Clubhouse as a setting will need to undergo an individual risk assessment and upgrade of facilities/signage prior to permitting use by members.
• Coaching of Youth Sailors requires close contact hence social distancing will not be possible. Youth Sailing coaching sessions will NOT be permitted.
• Sailing/racing is permitted on the basis that risks are mitigated. Participants are permitted to sail while minimising risk of infection and meeting current government guidelines.
• Follow government guidance at all times with respect to hand washing/sanitising guidance. Members should be encouraged to bring their own hand sanitiser. Sanitise hands on arrival and prior to touching any shared surface.
• Follow Government guidance with respect to social distancing at all times.
• Groups of 30 or more (inclusive of instructors/ group leaders) can get afloat whilst maintaining social distancing. Please follow cleaning and public hygiene advice..
• Members may visit the Jetties and Boat Park to carry out maintenance work on their boats or to retrieve boats. All social distancing measures should be adhered to.
• Local Councils (ABC Kinnego Marina) will be authorised to act as an enforcement body with regards the safe operation of the Marina – Council instruction must be adhered to AT ALL TIMES. Please refer to ABC Council website for specific guidelines to the facility.
• Limited access is permitted to (Club Toilet) small, shared facilities e.g. storage area / toilet /through-ways.  Key areas will be  disinfected regularly with sanitation products.

Before you arrive

• An attendance register will be provided for all members attending organised Club sessions. Those participating must pre-register. Maintain records of participants’ contact details will be held for 21 days.
• While attending sailing activities, limit car sharing. Avoid travel with someone outside your household. Self symptom check before leaving home. Assess personal risk and that of your team.
• Use of council changing rooms are discouraged and limited, please arrive ready to sail.
• Club buoyancy aids and wetsuits will not be provided for sharing. However, we will consider a designated loan of equipment that must not be shared. All loaned items will be recorded and must be returned at the end of the season.
• When sailing with someone from another household, if unable to maintain more than 1m separation then maintain at least 0.5m separation between crew with other non-face to face mitigation. Face coverings may be utilised.
• As long as risks are minimised and sailing conditions are within each sailor’s ability there is no requirement for restriction on club racing.
• Use of club boats must be approved by the dinghy secretary or club committee. The decision will be based on previous experience and ability
• Shared surfaces such as Jetty Gates, Clubhouse Gate and lock, Boat Park gate and Club Container should be considered as high risk surfaces. Maintain proper hand hygiene recommendations and where available use hand sanitiser i.e. entrance to the Clubhouse and Club container. Boat Park Gates and Club container will be opened by the attending instructor or designated ‘leader’.

Preparing to launch

• Please utilise launching and recovery rigging spots (Yellow Dots)  to facilitate social distancing. Launching and recovering should minimise close contact with others.
• The rigging of boats should take place outside the Boat Park to facilitate social distancing requirements. Rigging spots are defined with Yellow Dots to facilitate social distancing.
• Sailors should be able to launch and recover their boat to the compound by themselves, with the help of members of your own household or while maintaining social distancing guidelines.
• All members are to attempt to eliminate close proximity situations with public/passers-by. Critical areas include gates, roads, pontoon, and slipway. Social distancing is to be maintained
• A recommended limit of  20 knots is applied to experienced sailors. Be considerate and conservative when deciding to go afloat. Know your limits.
• A recommended upper limit of 15 knots is applied to competent sailors. This restriction will be enforced on the use of Club boats at the discretion of an attending instructor or lead safety boat officer.  Be considerate and conservative when deciding to go afloat. Know your limits.
• Only one person is permitted at any given time in the equipment container.
• Take additional time to check likely failure points whilst rigging. Carry out repairs, and replace kit, that is identified as a likely failure point. Ensure your boat is properly rigged with shackles, pins etc. secured.

On the Water

• Greater restrictions should be placed on youth sailors wishing to sail. Only those youth sailors deemed competent to sail in restricted wind conditions will be permitted. This advice applies to use of club boats and recommended to privately owned boats
• Safety cover provided on the basis that sailors can sail within their means and within guidelines provided. However a safety boat may be present to facilitate sailing activities while keeping to restrictions outlined in this assessment.
• Individuals should sail well within their capabilities. Follow RYA advice to Sail Conservatively and Be Considerate. During Club sessions a safety boat will be available for assistance while taking the necessary precautions. Should our members decide to sail independently it is recommended that basic equipment should be carried. i.e. VHF Radio, tow rope, anchor, sailing knife, whistle, paddle
• Safety Boat Crew will provide guidance during rescue – advice MUST be adhered to at ALL times. It will be the responsibility of the safety boat helm to maintain good sanitation measures on the safety boat. i.e.  Wiping of all surfaces before and after sessions.

Derigging

• Sailors should be able to launch and recover their boat to the compound by themselves, with the help of members of your own household or 2m apart from one other person from another household
• Use of club boats will be permitted on the basis of control measures outlined in this risk assessment is implemented i.e. Potential infection from shared surfaces
• All potentially contaminated materials/surfaces are to be disinfected immediately prior and after use with disinfectant spray provided. This includes club boats, marks, gate locks etc. Club equipment should be left 72 hours before reuse.
• Boats and equipment used in sailing sessions are to be only used on Saturdays and Wednesday PM – this is to facilitate a recommended 72hrs between use of hard surfaces.
• Use of club equipment outside Wed PM and Saturday is not recommended. Should equipment be required in between sessions, all equipment must be disinfected thoroughly prior to use by the user.

Competition

• Competition is now permitted for groups of 30+ individuals. This will allow racing on the basis that suitable mitigations on safety boat, committee boat and individual participants are in place.
• During sailing sessions, individual test and trace records should be maintained for participating boats. Dinghy sailing should record any unusual contact over and above participation in sessions i.e. safety boat rescue. Keelboat racing should implement an effective contact and trace record keeping procedure.
• Ensure numbers onboard Committee Boats
• are limited dependent on size of boat to allow minimum 1m spacing. Face coverings should be considered if appropriate.

Safety Cover

• Provision of Safety cover is permitted providing certain mitigations are followed regarding social distancing, shared surfaces etc.
• Ensure Rib Driver prepares own boat with equipment eliminating use of shared hard surfaces
• Number of people in the Safety Boat is subject to Safety Boat Helm instruction.  If unable to maintain more than 1m separation then maintain at least 0.5m separation between crew with other non-face to face mitigation.
• Wear face covering. Ensure casualty is facing away from the safety boat. If able to, self-rescue using strop or ladder. If casualty conscious and able they should wear face covering once aboard the safety boat. The Club should invest in disposable safety masks.
• We may have safety cover on the water to facilitate sailing activities but towing by rope, self rescue is encouraged. In the event of a rescue being required the Safety Boat Helm advice MUST be adhered to.
• In extreme circumstances where life may be in danger fellow sailors or the safety boat may intervene as required – subject to minimising covid-19 infection risk. The Club Emergency Action Plan should be implemented should the need arise.
• Access to club first aid kits are restricted. Bring your own first kit.
• CALL 999 and ask for ‘Coast Guard’ or VHF CH16 and call a ‘mayday or pan pan’ . Carry a mobile phone with the numbers of a suitable onshore contact/onshore buddy.
• Clubhouse
• This section will be expanded upon permitted use of the Clubhouse
• Registration of  your attendance within the clubhouse is required for the purposes of test and trace. This is extended to all personnel using the toilet, Committee meetings, maintenance and any other visits. A log book is provided which should include the name and date of visitor. Hand Sanitisor will be provided.

Keelboat Sailing

• Keelboat sailing/racing is permitted on the basis that risks are mitigated. Participants are permitted to sail while minimising risk of infection and meeting current government guidelines.
• Maintaining a regular crew (crew bubble) will mitigate the risks but other mitigation  measures should be put in place
• Organise manoeuvres to maximise social distancing and avoid face to face where this would normally occur
• Maintain at least 1m social distancing. If unable to maintain more than 1m separation then maintain at least 0.5m separation between crew with other face to face mitigation. i.g. use of face coverings.
• Avoid more than one person below deck at any given time. When >1 person below deck limit duration to less than 5 minutes & regularly clean shared surfaces
• Maintain good hygiene on your boat. At end of day or before use by another person clean down equipment

LNSC Covid-19 Guidelines (Updated 14th August, 2020)

GENERAL GUIDELINES

• Individuals with COVID symptoms are not to enter or participate in activities/ club facilities.  Follow government guidelines for self isolation. Ask yourself the question; Do I have any symptoms? Should I attend?
•  In the absence of NI- specific guidance on indoor numbers, limited access may be permitted for boating-related activity. (Use of toilet): The Clubhouse is to remain closed to all members excluding committee for urgent maintenance requirements and use of the toilet facilities. The Clubhouse as a setting will need to undergo an individual risk assessment and upgrade of facilities/signage prior to permitting use by members.
• Coaching of Youth Sailors requires close contact hence social distancing will not be possible. Youth Sailing coaching sessions will NOT be permitted.
• Sailing/racing is permitted on the basis that risks are mitigated. Participants are permitted to sail while minimising risk of infection and meeting current government guidelines.
•  Follow government guidance at all times with respect to hand washing/sanitising guidance. Members should be encouraged to bring their own hand sanitiser. Sanitise hands on arrival and prior to touching any shared surface.
• Follow Government guidance with respect to social distancing at all times.
• Groups of 30 or more (inclusive of instructors/ group leaders) can get afloat whilst maintaining social distancing. Please follow cleaning and public hygiene advice.
• Members may visit the Jetties and Boat Park to carry out maintenance work on their boats or to retrieve boats. All social distancing measures should be adhered to.
• Local Councils (ABC Kinnego Marina) will be authorised to act as an enforcement body with regards the safe operation of the Marina – Council instruction must be adhered to AT ALL TIMES. Please refer to ABC Council website for specific guidelines to the facility.
• Limited access is permitted to (Club Toilet) small, shared facilities e.g. storage area / toilet /through-ways.  Key areas will be  disinfected regularly with sanitation products.

BEFORE YOU ARRIVE

• An attendance register will be provided for all members attending organised Club sessions. Those participating must pre-register. Maintain records of participants’ contact details will be held for 21 days.
• While attending sailing activities, limit car sharing. Avoid travel with someone outside your household. Self symptom check before leaving home. Assess personal risk and that of your team.
• Use of council changing rooms are discouraged and limited, please arrive ready to sail.
• Club buoyancy aids and wetsuits will not be provided for sharing. However, we will consider a designated loan of equipment that must not be shared and returned at the end of the season. All loaned items must be recorded.
• When sailing with someone from another household,, if unable to maintain more than 1m separation then maintain at least 0.5m separation between crew with other non-face to face mitigation. Face coverings may be utilised.
• As long as risks are minimised and sailing conditions are within each sailor’s ability there is no requirement for restriction on club racing.
• Use of club boats must be approved by the dinghy secretary or club committee. The decision will be based on previous experience and ability

PREPARING TO LAUNCH

• Please utilise launching and recovery rigging spots (Yellow Dots)  to facilitate social distancing. Launching and recovering should minimise close contact with others.
• The rigging of boats should take place outside the Boat Park to facilitate social distancing requirements. Rigging spots are defined with Yellow Dots to facilitate social distancing.
• Sailors should be able to launch and recover their boat to the compound by themselves, with the help of members of your own household or while maintaining social distancing guidelines.
• All members are to attempt to eliminate close proximity situations with public/passers-by. Critical areas include gates, roads, pontoon, and slipway. Social distancing is to be maintained
• A recommended limit of  20 knots is applied to experienced sailors. Be considerate and conservative when deciding to go afloat. Know your limits.
• A recommended limit of 15 knots is applied to competent sailors. Be considerate and conservative when deciding to go afloat Know your limits.
• Only one person is permitted at any given time in the equipment container.
• Take additional time to check likely failure points whilst rigging. Carry out repairs, and replace kit, that is identified as a likely failure point

ON THE WATER

• Greater restrictions should be placed on youth sailors wishing to sail. Only those youth sailors deemed competent to sail in restricted wind conditions will be permitted. This advice applies to use of club boats and recommended to privately owned boats
• Safety cover provided on the basis that sailors can sail within their means and within guidelines provided. However a safety boat may be present to facilitate sailing activities while keeping to restrictions outlined in this assessment.
• Individuals should sail well within their capabilities. Follow RYA advice to Sail Conservatively and Be Considerate
• Safety Boat Crew will provide guidance during rescue – advice MUST be adhered to at ALL times.

DERIGGING

• Sailors should be able to launch and recover their boat to the compound by themselves, with the help of members of your own household or 2m apart from one other person from another household
• Use of club boats will be permitted on the basis of control measures outlined in this risk assessment is implemented i.e. Potential infection from shared surfaces
• All potentially contaminated materials/surfaces are to be disinfected immediately prior and after use with disinfectant spray provided. This includes club boats, marks, gate locks etc. Club equipment should be left 72 hours before reuse.
• Boats and equipment used in sailing sessions are to be only used on Saturdays and Wednesday PM – this is to facilitate a recommended 72hrs between use of hard surfaces.
• Use of club equipment outside Wed PM and Saturday is not recommended. Should equipment be required in between sessions, all equipment must be disinfected thoroughly prior to use by the user.

COMPETITION

• Competition is now permitted for groups of 30+ individuals. This will allow racing on the basis that suitable mitigations on safety boat, committee boat and individual participants are in place.
• During sailing sessions, individual test and trace records should be maintained for participating boats. Dinghy sailing should record any unusual contact over and above participation in sessions i.e. safety boat rescue. Keelboat racing should implement an effective contact and trace record keeping procedure.
• Ensure numbers onboard Committee Boats are limited dependent on size of boat to allow minimum 1m spacing. Face coverings should be considered if appropriate.

SAFETY COVER

• Provision of Safety cover is permitted providing certain mitigations are followed regarding social distancing, shared surfaces etc.
• Ensure Rib Driver prepares own boat with equipment eliminating use of shared hard surfaces
• Number of people in the Safety Boat is subject to Safety Boat Helm instruction.  If unable to maintain more than 1m separation then maintain at least 0.5m separation between crew with other non-face to face mitigation.
• Wear face covering. Ensure casualty is facing away from the safety boat. If able to, self-rescue using strop or ladder. If casualty conscious and able they should wear face covering once aboard the safety boat. Club should invest in disposable safety masks.
• We may have safety cover on the water to facilitate sailing activities but towing by rope, self rescue is encouraged. In the event of a rescue being required the Safety Boat Helm advice MUST be adhered to.
•  In extreme circumstances where life may be in danger fellow sailors or safety boat may intervene as required – subject to minimising covid-19 infection risk. Consideration should be given to using the emergency services.
• Access to club first aid kits are restricted. Bring your own first kit.
• CALL 999 and ask for ‘Coastguard’ or VHF CH16 and call a ‘mayday or panpan’ . Carry a mobile phone with the numbers of a suitable onshore contact/onshore buddy.

CLUBHOUSE

This section will be expanded upon permitted use of the Clubhouse

•  Register your attendance with the club for test and trace. Maintain record of participant contact details for 21 days.

KEELBOAT SAILING

• Keelboat sailing/racing is permitted on the basis that risks are mitigated. Participants are permitted to sail while minimising risk of infection and meeting current government guidelines.
• Maintaining a regular crew (crew bubble) will mitigate the risks but other mitigation  measures should be put in place
• Organise manoeuvres to maximise social distancing and avoid face to face where this would normally occur
• Maintain at least 1m social distancing. If unable to maintain more than 1m separation then maintain at least 0.5m separation between crew with other face-to-face mitigation. i.e. use of face coverings.
• Avoid more than one person below deck at any given time. When >1 person below deck limit duration to less than 5 minutes & regularly clean shared surfaces
• Maintain good hygiene on your boat. At end of day or before use by another person clean down equipment

For further information or clarification please email: info@loughneaghsailingclub.org and we will do our best to clarify.

LNSC Committee

STEP 1 – Guidelines for Observing COVID-19 Restrictions

Current Situation

• Sailing activities are permitted during which social distancing can be maintained for individuals who do not share a household contact and where there is no shared contact with hard surfaces
• Outdoor gatherings of up to six people not from the same household will be allowed but everyone must adhere to social distancing and public health guidelines.
• Local Councils (ABC Kinnego Marina) will be authorised to act as an enforcement body with regards the safe operation of the Marina – so Council instruction must be adhered to AT ALL TIMES
• The NI Executive is also encouraging people to ‘stay local’.

Return to Boating

We will, as a boating community, encourage a considerate and conservative approach to our sailing activities

• Be considerate: be mindful of the potential impact that you could have on other water users and do not place unnecessary extra strain on Lough Neagh rescue and the emergency services.
• Be conservative: help to minimise risk by taking an extra conservative approach to your boating.

Before Visiting

Are you fit to visit? Please do not attend Lough Neagh Sailing Club if you, or anyone in your household, are feeling unwell or experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19. Before travelling: Please check the Club website and Facebook for the latest information; if changes in Government guidelines require activities to be restricted again, this information will be communicated by these methods.

STEP 2 – Guidelines for Observing LNSC Restrictions

Use of Club and Marina Facilities

The following guidelines are to be observed by ALL club members considering boating activities.

• Groups actively sailing should not exceed 6 boats (this will be reviewed as updates are provided)
• The Club House remains closed and should not be used
• Do not travel or sail with someone outside your household

• Individuals should sail well within their capabilities. Higher risk water-based activities are discouraged as they may lead to increased pressure on emergency services
• Personal buoyancy aids should not be shared
• Club buoyancy aids will not be provided for sharing
• Wetsuits will not be provided by the Club
• Shared contact with equipment is not permitted
• Club equipment and surfaces should be disinfected after each session (including boats, storage facilities etc.)
• The clubhouse and changing rooms will remain closed, please arrive ready to sail and note toilet facilities will not be available
• At all times please show consideration for others by respecting the social distancing requirement of 2 metres
• Those coming to the Club may engage in cruiser sailing, single-handed sailing or double-handed sailing but only with members of your own household
• Youth sailing – as safety cover will not be available at this time we would recommend that Youth Sailors request permission to sail club boats. Access will be granted to those who have demonstrated a level of competence in previous sessions. We will require a parent or adult family member to remain within the vicinity of the club whilst on the water
• Ensure hands are thoroughly washed and bring hand sanitiser for personal use
• The rigging of boats should take place outside the Boat Park to facilitate social distancing
• Members may also visit the Jetties and Boat Park to carry out maintenance work on their boats
• Club Boats may only be used by those who have previous experience and coaching during previous sailing sessions

If you suspect any equipment has been exposed to the virus, clean thoroughly and immediately advise Kevin Cushnahan on club communication channels. This equipment must not be used for a period of 72 hours. Please bring your own drinks with you, especially if the weather is warm and do not share water bottles or food. Please do not spend any longer on site than is necessary. Please give careful consideration to prevailing conditions and the condition of your equipment, when taking the decision to go afloat.

STEP 3 – Guidance for On-the-Water Activities

On the Water Guidelines

The following advice is recommended as we start on our return to water programme:

• If possible, arrange to go out with another similar boat and watch out for each other and for other boats afloat.
• Check the weather forecast.
• Avoid sailing in a dying wind – you may have to paddle back.
• Double-check your boat’s buoyancy, equipment, rigging and fixings.
• Dress appropriately for the conditions – it is easier to take off a layer than put it on.
• Ensure you are wearing a personal buoyancy aid or lifejacket when afloat.
• Consider wearing head protection.
• Carry a mobile phone in a waterproof bag/container or a VHF radio. Tell your contact ashore that you are going out on the water and when you should be expected back.
• Dinghies that cannot be self-propelled should carry a paddle for self-rescue.
• Make sure you have long painters, righting lines and masthead floats if necessary.
• Realistically (and honestly) assess your ability, your crew and your boat’s capability to sail in the conditions. Sail well within your comfort zone and don’t take unnecessary risks.
• Don’t go out or return to shore if you have any doubts!
• Have a plan B for the unexpected.
• If you capsize and are unable to right the boat, always remain with the boat. Never try to swim to shore.
• Contact someone ashore if you or another sailor get into difficulties. Provide them with information as to your status and location, and, if available an alternative means of contact.
• Be vigilant of your surroundings, particularly for other vessels/craft and obstacles.
• Don’t stay out alone after your sailing partner/s come in.

Coronavirus (Covid-19) – Update – 17 Mar

Dear all,

In line with recommended guidelines and advice, we will be suspending LNSC organised activity until 30th April.

This includes all organised sailing activities including the Ice Breaker Series, Discover Sailing Taster Sessions and any proposed club social activities. We will directly contact all individuals already signed up to these events.

We will of course be monitoring developments and updating our members as necessary. We remain engaged with local statutory organisations and will share any relevant information with our members.

Should you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at
info@loughneaghsailingclub.org

Dear members,

Lough Neagh Sailing Club as an affiliated member of the RYA and are following guidelines issued as the situation regarding Cornavirus (Covid-19) arises. It is a developing situation and we recommend seeking updated advice as the situation changes (see links below).

RYA Northern Ireland is following the official guidelines set by the Northern Ireland Assembly and UK Governments and advice provided by Public Health Agency Northern Ireland. Clubs and Training Centres should refer to the advice below and continue to encourage individuals to be diligent with personal hygiene and especially hand washing.

Advice from the Public Health Agence can be found at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-information-for-the-public

All the latest advice from RYA can be found at: https://www.rya.org.uk/newsevents/news/Pages/rya-guidance-coronavirus.aspx

Prevent infection where possible

Recognise the symptoms

Based on current evidence, the main symptoms of COVID-19 are a cough, a high temperature and, in severe cases, shortness of breath.