How is para rowing kept safe?
A · Advanced · Racing · 2 of 4Organisers, the technical delegate and the jury agree special safety plans for PR1 and PR2 crews, such as extra rescue boats for the PR1 single and care in weather that causes extreme body temperatures. Traffic rules should keep fixed-seat crews apart from others. The Control Commission checks access for wheelchairs and guide dogs, boat design, pontoons and strapping.
How it works
- Safety plan: agreed by organisers, TD and jury.
- PR1 single: extra rescue boats.
- Weather: watch for heat or cold stress.
- Traffic: fixed-seat crews kept apart.
- Access: pontoons for wheelchairs, guide dogs, carers.
- Inspections: boats, foot stretchers, straps, pontoons.
- Helpers: classifiers and the Para Rowing Commission.
- Kit: worn whenever on the water.
The glossary has the safety (para rowing), the umpiring a para race, the stabilising pontoons, the control commission checks (para rowing), the sanction for missing equipment and the fixed seat.
Tricky cases
Must para crews wear straps in training?
Yes, on the water at all times.
Can fixed-seat crews use the main traffic lanes?
Traffic rules should separate them.
Who checks pontoon fixing?
The Control Commission.
Is hot weather a special risk?
Yes. Some impairments affect body temperature control.
Why the rule exists
A strapped rower in a capsized boat is in danger in seconds. Extra boats and checks cut that risk.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| PR1 1x | Extra rescue boats | R14 13 |
| Fixed seats | Separate traffic | R14 14 |
| Checks | Access and kit | R14 22 |
From the rule book
World Rowing, Rules of Racing and Related Bye-Laws (March 2025), Appendix R14, regulations 13 to 15 and 22. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: World Rowing Rules of Racing, Appendices R14 and R15.