RLSS UK launches new and updated NWSMP awards to further support businesses with crucial water safety

The Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK), the UK and Ireland’s premier provider of water-related safety qualifications, training, and education, has launched newly revised National Water Safety Management Programme (NWSMP) awards to support organisations with employees who work in, on or near water to meet their legal obligations regarding the management of employees around water.

The revised awards have undergone months of rigorous review and developed with contributions from industry-leading experts, existing trainers, and water safety specialists to ensure that they meet the current Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) and Health and Safety Executive standards for those working on, in or near water during structured activities.

Endorsed by the Institute of Outdoor Learning, the NWSMP is structured into two levels to suit specific operational and individual needs:

Level 1 consists of a six-hour Water Safety Awareness award - designed for employees working near the water. Candidates will learn the basics of risk assessing around water and how to perform rescues from the bank. Level 2 is made up of specialist modules in Inland or Coastal Waterways - designed for those who carry out tasks in or on the water as part of their employment.

Robert Gofton, CEO of RLSS UK, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have updated and re-launched this programme, building on the success of the original NWSMP. The team has done an excellent job ensuring the revised content remains informed by the most recent guidance and legislation and that this programme continues to get recognition as the premier qualification for anyone with occupational safety management responsibilities. With water safety and risk management at the top of the agenda for protecting people outdoors, our updates make these awards an absolute must-have for anyone responsible for groups or workers operating in, on and around water.”

Upon passing any of the NWSMP 2.0 awards, the resulting certificate is valid for two years (from date of successful completion).

To learn more about the NWSMP and how it can help your business, visit www.rlss.org.uk/nwsmp.

Since 1891 we’ve been educating people in water safety, lifesaving and lifeguarding to enable families to enjoy water safely.

To download our free water safety education resources, click here.

For information on RLSS UK’s Drowning Prevention Week, click here.

Visit our Facebook page - facebook.com/RLSSUK

Call – 0300 323 0096