What safety precaution should be taken when working around water?

When working around water, wearing a life jacket is a critical safety precaution. This is especially important in environments where the risk of falling into the water is present or where the water is deep. A life jacket provides buoyancy, helping to keep an individual afloat and reducing the risk of drowning in case they accidentally fall in. Safety regulations and best practices encourage the use of a life jacket in potentially hazardous aquatic environments to protect workers and ensure safety while performing their tasks.

Rubber boots, though advantageous for keeping feet dry and protected from wet conditions, do not offer the same level of safety in the event of an unexpected fall into the water. Hard hats protect against head injuries but do not address the drowning risk associated with water. Gloves may provide grip and protect the hands, but they also do not prevent the risk of drowning or help a worker stay afloat in water. Thus, the life jacket is the most effective piece of safety equipment in this context, ensuring personal safety while working around water sources.