- 1 - The Highland Council and High Life Highland. Adventurous Activity Generic Risk Assessments

Transcription

1 - 1 - The Highland Council and High Life Highland Adventurous Activity Generic Risk Assessments October 2017

2 - 2 - Table of Contents Preface... 4 Watersports... 5 Canadian Canoeing / Open Boating... 5 Coastal Rowing Generic Risk Assessment... 8 River and Loch Kayaking Sea Kayaking Sculling and Rowing (on canals and rivers) Dinghy Sailing River and Loch [bank] Fishing Open Water Snorkelling Paddle Boarding Diving Surfing Powerboating including use as a Safety Boat or Towing Wildlife Cruises / Boat Trips Snow Sports Skiing & Snowboarding on an Artificial Slope Alpine Skiing & Boarding within a Ski Resort Nordic Skiing Mountain Sports Camping / Bothying Mountain Biking Cross Country Running / Hill Running Trekking and Hillwalking Summer Hillwalking - Winter Indoor and Outdoor Climbing Walls including traverse walls Rock Climbing Natural Rock Weaselling Other Activities Archery Non competition equipment Bushcraft Gorge Walking and Canyoning October 2017

3 - 3 - Orienteering Ropes Courses Caving (Horizontal) Outdoor Centre Project Work Use of Vehicle Trailers October 2017

4 - 4 - Preface These generic risk assessments are provided following the guidance contained within Going Out There. The employer and employee have a legal responsibility to ensure risk assessments are in place for off-site visits and to have a system that ensures these are being implemented. It is appropriate for the employer to provide generic risk assessments and these could be incorporated into an online recording tool (e.g. EVOLVE) where these are being used. This task may be assigned to an appropriately competent person. Generic risk assessments provide an overview of the foreseeable and significant risks that might be met on a visit with the aim of managing risks so that they are acceptable. In general 'acceptable' would be free from significant risk of death or permanently disabling injury. Leaders should take the generic risk assessment and develop their own risk assessment within their own level of competence; they should record significant and foreseeable risks specific to their visit they or the establishment are responsible for. Laying out reasonability practicable planning, management and supervision actions to reduce the risks to a position where the benefits outweigh any residual risks, posed by the planned visit. This should take into account: The aims and benefits of the visit The participants (including leaders and helpers) medical, behavioural and additional support needs The venue The activity Getting there Time of year Many visits are by their nature low risk activities and should be quick and easy to risk assess. Higher risk activities require more detailed risk assessments which record how the risks will be reduced to an acceptable level. The findings of the risk assessment and the relevant precautions/controls should be agreed with and understood by all participants including Visit Assistants (and parents where appropriate). If it is considered that something important is missing from the following generic risk assessments contact outdoor.education@highlifehighland.com Notes; All the likelihood ratings within these generic risk assessments have been given assuming the instructors / visit leaders deployed have the necessary experience and / or appropriate valid qualifications (including 1 st aid certificates). This is and should be supported by informed and competent management oversight before, during and post visit. Training in risk assessment, educational visit leading and co-ordinating is available on planned dates and by request October 2017

5 Generic risk assessment for use by Highland Council and High Life Highland staff and volunteers For Highland Council s risk assessment training click here Watersports Canadian Canoeing / Open Boating All RA s should be reviewed when changes are made to the excursion, e.g. to group, staff, transport, ratios etc. Instructors to hold relevant, evidenced current competence in the activity and environmental conditions STEP 1 STEP 2 STEP 3 STEP 4 STEP 5 List potential Hazards here: Entrapment under the canoe or in river debris/strainers List groups of people at risk from hazards. Including those most vulnerable: All participants List existing control measures or note where information may be found: Instructor to provide advice re capsize drill and sitting position Rapids and routes checked before descent, Participants taught to identify and actions to take to avoid Drowning All participants Buoyancy aids to be worn by everyone. Instructors to check that they are sized and worn correctly Being capsized by person in the water All participants Brief group to stand clear, allowing room for the instructor to effect a rescue Calculate the residual risk taking the presence and effectiveness of existing measures into account: Severity x Likelihood = Risk Rating Compiled by: Nancy Chambers BCU L5 Coach Date completed: 17 Jun 15 Reviewed: 05 Jan 17 List further control measures necessary to reduce risk to an acceptable level and date of their proposed introduction: Appropriate safety and rescue equipment carried by instructor relevant to conditions Routes checked prior to descent Communications carried appropriate to the locations /activity Hypothermia All participants Leader obtains weather information, advises the group re appropriate clothing, selects suitable area to 1 2 2

6 - 6 - operate in, and checks the wellbeing of the group at regular intervals. Exhaustion All participants Provide opportunities for the participants to eat drink and rest. Where necessary provide shelter Drink water and food at regular intervals Sunburn / eye strain All participants Use caps / sunglasses as required Encourage participants to bring and use an appropriate cream/spray Seek shade where required Injury caused by lifting and carrying canoes Impact injury from paddles during games Entanglement in tow lines or fishing lines/nets Impact to the head during a capsize, river bed or descending rapids Jamming hands between boats (gunwales) All participants Instructor to brief the group on lifting techniques, team lifting, use of trollies for long portages and supervise as necessary All participants Guidance and rules of the game to be provided by the instructor e.g. keeping hands on the paddle shaft t grip Helmets to be worn where appropriate All participants All participants All participants Instructor to have a suitable knife readily accessible Helmets to be worn where appropriate Swimming technique taught along with movement to avoid entrapment Make all participants aware of this hazard and instruct them to be careful when coming close to another canoe

7 - 7 - Lyme s disease From Tick bites All participants When in an area with ticks advise all participants to wear long trousers and or put on an insect repellent Remind everyone to check for ticks that evening Guide on how to remove them Tell participants what the signs and symptoms of Lyme s disease are and emphasise that they should to go to the doctor if they appear Weil's disease All participants When in a suspect environment; Advise everyone not to ingest any water Advise everyone to wash their hands before eating food Notify of system to watch for and to seek medical help if unsure Avoid known poor/ stagnant water areas

8 - 8 - Generic risk assessment for use by Highland Council and High Life Highland staff and volunteers For Highland Council s risk assessment training click here Watersports Coastal Rowing Generic Risk Assessment All RA s should be reviewed when changes are made to the excursion, e.g. to group, staff, transport, ratios etc. Instructors to hold relevant, evidenced current competence in the activity and environmental conditions Compiled by: Topher Dawson (Ullapool HS) Fixed Seat Rowing Coach Date completed: 23 Jun 15 Reviewed: WMcL STEP 1 STEP 2 STEP 3 STEP 4 STEP 5 List potential Hazards here: Incident through difficult weather or water conditions. Lightning Collision with shore or object List groups of people at risk from hazards. Including those most vulnerable: Pupils, Staff, Instructors Pupils, Staff, Instructors List existing control measures or note where information may be found: Weather and water / tide conditions assessed by competent person Ensure competent crew or cancel activity. Find out if there are any weather warnings and using the 30/30 rule to delay or cancel as advised in ARA (Amateur Rowing Association) document Pupils, Staff Competent cox All crew briefed to be vigilant Crews informed of navigation rules. Calculate the residual risk taking the presence and effectiveness of existing measures into account: Severity x Likelihood = Risk Rating List further control measures necessary to reduce risk to an acceptable level and date of their proposed introduction: If it takes less than 30 seconds to hear thunder after seeing the flash, lightning is near enough to pose a threat; after the storm ends, wait 30 minutes before resuming outdoor activities Cox and crew must know the activity area, sea/loch bed and shore hazards

9 Collisions with other water craft Pupils, Staff Cox and crew to be aware of Rules of the Road at Sea Drowning resulting from a capsize Pupils, Staff All leaders and participants will wear a correctly fitting lifejacket / buoyancy aid Safety launch on hand to pluck participants out of the water or method of gaining emergency support All participants must be competent in water Hypothermia Pupils, Staff Conditions assessed by competent person before embarking on journey All participants briefed on conditions and recommended clothing Incidents requiring first aid. Incident requiring assistance Pupils, Staff, Instructors Leader of the group will hold a current relevant 1 st Aid Certificate and always have an appropriate 1 st Aid Kit on board Pupils, Staff A waterproof VHF radio and mobile phone will always be taken The operator will have a VHF operator s license The safety launch will also have a VHF radio and trained operator Sunburn, dehydration Pupils, Staff Drinking water and sun cream carried in boat. Crew briefed to bring and wear sunhats and long sleeved tops as necessary A throw bag will be carried on all craft to aid bring swimmer to craft in the event of falling out Cox to ensure spares are carried as appropriate Cox to carry a knife in the event of fishline/net entanglement on access and egress As appropriate to the location marine flares should be considered and carried. cox/competent adults aware of their effective safe use 1 1 1

10 Boat forced on to a rough windward shore by weather Injury from oar catching the water Weil's disease / Blue Green algae Pupils, Staff Activity will take place in a suitable sheltered location and crew will not be asked to row against stronger wind than they have the strength for. If overcome by weather, will request a tow from safety boat. Boat will carry anchor and warp so as to lie safely off shore if waiting for a tow. Pupils, Staff Crew trained and practiced in appropriate conditions Crews will be briefed about catching crabs. All All briefed to avoid consuming water (water play) Advise everyone to wash their hands before eating Proximity of safety boat should be dictated by PEA risk assessment (people / environment / activity) All advised to seek medical advice if feeling unwell after activity

11 Generic risk assessment for use by Highland Council and High Life Highland staff and volunteers For Highland Council s risk assessment training click here Watersports River and Loch Kayaking All RA s should be reviewed when changes are made to the excursion, e.g. to group, staff, transport, ratios etc. Instructors to hold relevant, evidenced current competence in the activity and environmental conditions Compiled by: Nancy Chambers BCU L3 Coach (Inland) Date completed: 17 Jun 15 Reviewed: WMcL STEP 1 STEP 2 STEP 3 STEP 4 STEP 5 List potential Hazards here: Entrapment in the kayak Entrapment in strainer List groups of people at risk from hazards. Including those most vulnerable: List existing control measures or note where information may be found: All participants Where spray decks are used (the client should have been trained to use them) they should be easy to remove especially with beginners and those that are less strong suitable footwear Identification of hazards and actions to take to avoid entrapment in strainers Drowning All participants Buoyancy aids to be worn by everyone. Instructors to check that they are sized and worn correctly All buoyancy aids should be visually Calculate the residual risk taking the presence and effectiveness of existing measures into account: Severity x Likelihood = Risk Rating List further control measures necessary to reduce risk to an acceptable level and date of their proposed introduction: Rescue equipment appropriate to the route and conditions carried by the instructors. Knife carried (by instructor/s) to aid release from line entrapments 3 1 3

12 inspected before being issued Drowning / injury due to capsize by a person in the water All participants Brief group to stand clear, allowing room for the instructor to approach and effect rescue Group briefed on what ifs prior to activity Group could be briefed to carry out a rescue if competent to do so Hypothermia All participants Leader obtains weather information, advises the group re appropriate clothing, selects suitable area to operate in, and checks the well-being of the group at regular intervals. Exhaustion All participants Provide opportunities for the participants to eat drink and rest. Where necessary provide shelter Sunburn / eye strain All participants Use sun hats /glasses as necessary Encourage participants to bring and use an appropriate cream/spray Injury caused by lifting and carrying kayaks Impact injury from paddles during games Head Injury Capsizing in shallow water surf, white water or coastal rock hopping All participants Instructor to brief the group on safe lifting techniques and also safe loading of kayak trailers All participants Guidance and rules of the game to be provided by the instructor Helmets to be worn where appropriate All participants Helmets should be worn where there is such a risk Participants briefed on movement over rough terrain and swimming in rough water, rips and rapids

13 Lyme s disease From Tick bites Weil's disease / Blue Green algae All When in an area with ticks advise all participants to wear long trousers and or put on an insect repellent Remind everyone to check for ticks that evening Provide guidance re how to remove them Tell participants what the signs and symptoms of Lyme s disease are and emphasise that they should to go to the doctor if they appear All All briefed to highlight any possible sightings of blooms (not just green / blue) Advise everyone to wash their hands before eating All advised to seek medical advice if feeling unwell after activity

14 Generic risk assessment for use by Highland Council and High Life Highland staff and volunteers For Highland Council s risk assessment training click here Watersports Sea Kayaking All RA s should be reviewed when changes are made to the excursion, e.g. to group, staff, transport, ratios etc. Instructors to hold relevant, evidenced current competence in the activity and environmental conditions Compiled by: Nancy Chambers BCU L3 Coach (Sea) Date completed: 17 Jun 15 Reviewed: 05 Jan 17 2 Nov 17 - WMc STEP 1 STEP 2 STEP 3 STEP 4 STEP 5 List potential Hazards here: List groups of people at risk from hazards. Including those most vulnerable: List existing control measures or note where information may be found: Capsizing All participants Instructor must be able to carry out a deep water rescue All participants skills and competence to be assessed prior to journeys and crossing Entrapment in the kayak All participants Participants should be briefed on how to use a spray deck before going on the water Spray decks which are easy to remove should be used with Calculate the residual risk taking the presence and effectiveness of existing measures into account: Severity x Likelihood = Risk Rating List further control measures necessary to reduce risk to an acceptable level and date of their proposed introduction: Appropriate safety and rescue equipment carried by instructor relevant to conditions Routes checked prior to descent

15 Head injury due to contact with rocks (close shore paddling) beginners and those that are less strong Participants are to ensure that the release handle is visible and practice releasing the spray deck All participants Instructor to assess requirement and carry / wear helmets Select route to match competence of paddlers Drowning All participants Buoyancy aids to be worn by everyone. Instructors to check that they are sized and worn correctly Hypothermia All participants Leader obtains weather information and so advises the group re appropriate clothing, selects suitable area to operate in Checks the wellbeing of the group at regular intervals. Exhaustion All participants Provide opportunities for the participants to eat drink and rest. Where necessary provide shelter Leader/s to carry tow lines Sea Sickness All participants Identify (potentially in vetting) those with a history of sea sickness (and remedy) Ensure escape routes are part of the trip plan Move to more sheltered waters Communications and distress communications carried appropriate to the locations /activity Leader to carry group shelter and warm drinks as weather and route dictates Consider hypothermia a higher risk with sea sickness sufferers

16 Sunburn / sunstroke All participants Use sun hats/baseball caps Encourage participants to bring and use an appropriate cream/spray Drink water at regular intervals Seek shade where required Injury caused by lifting and carrying kayaks Injury from slipping on seaweed, rocks etc. Impact injury from paddles during games Entanglement in tow lines or fishing lines/nets Unable to reach a shore All participants All participants Instructor to brief the group on safe lifting techniques Instructor to brief and directly supervise loading of trailers Instructor to emphasize moving slowly and carefully through slippery terrain All participants Guidance and rules of the game to be provided by the instructor Helmets to be worn where appropriate All participants Instructor to have a suitable knife readily accessible All participants Appropriate planning and preparation Instructor to carry a VHF radio, mobile phone and flares Jellyfish stings All participants First aid kit to include medication to combat the reaction Salt water washing recommended. First aider should wear surgical gloves Lyme s disease From Tick bites All When in an area with ticks advise all participants to wear long trousers and or put on an insect repellent Remind everyone to check for ticks that evening Provide guidance re how to remove Instructor to select best route as considered necessary 1 1 1

17 Weil's disease them Tell participants what the signs and symptoms of Lyme s disease are and emphasise that they should to go to the doctor if they appear When in a suspect environment; Instructor to seek local knowledge Advise everyone to avoid ingesting water Advise everyone to avoid and cover open cuts Advise participants on symptoms and seeking medical support

18 Generic risk assessment for use by Highland Council and High Life Highland staff and volunteers For Highland Council s risk assessment training click here Watersports Sculling and Rowing (on canals and rivers) All RA s should be reviewed when changes are made to the excursion, e.g. to group, staff, transport, ratios etc. Instructors to hold relevant, evidenced current competence in the activity and environmental conditions Reviewed by: Susanne Standish-White BR Level 3 Coach Date completed: 10 Jul 15 Reviewed: 05 Jan 17 STEP 1 STEP 2 STEP 3 STEP 4 STEP 5 List potential Hazards here: Entrapment under the rowing boat Injury from falling into the Canal from steps (can be slippery) and/or pontoons List groups of people at risk from hazards. Including those most vulnerable: List existing control measures or note where information may be found: All participants Instructor to provide advice re capsize drill Instructor to ensure that there is appropriate water based emergency assistance available e.g. safety boat All participants All non-swimmers must wear buoyancy aids Instructors to supervise access and egress Drowning All participants Buoyancy aids to be worn by coxswains (optional for rowers) All non-swimmers must wear buoyancy aids Calculate the residual risk taking the presence and effectiveness of existing measures into account: Severity x Likelihood = Risk Rating List further control measures necessary to reduce risk to an acceptable level and date of their proposed introduction:

19 Instructors to check that they are sized and worn correctly Sunburn / eye strain All participants Use sun hats/baseball caps Encourage participants to bring and use an appropriate sun cream/spray Drink water at regular intervals Seek shade where req d Wear sunglasses as req d Injury caused by lifting and carrying boats Impact injury from oars during rowing All participants All participants Instructor to brief the group on safe lifting techniques and safe positioning of oars Guidance to be provided by the instructor e.g. keeping time with crew, avoiding catching crabs Weil's disease All participants When in a suspect environment; Advise everyone not to ingest any waterand wash their hands before eating food Lyme s disease From Tick bites All When in an area with ticks advise all participants to wear long trousers and or put on an insect repellent Remind everyone to check for ticks that evening Provide guidance re how to remove them Tell participants what the signs and symptoms of Lyme s disease are and emphasise that they should to go to the doctor if they appear

20 Generic risk assessment for use by Highland Council and High Life Highland staff and volunteers For Highland Council s risk assessment training click here Water sports Dinghy Sailing All RA s should be reviewed when changes are made to the excursion, e.g. to group, staff, transport, ratios etc. Instructors to hold relevant, evidenced current competence in the activity and environmental conditions Compiled by: Nancy Chambers Dingy SI (Tidal) Date completed: 17 Jun 15 Reviewed: WMcL STEP 1 STEP 2 STEP 3 STEP 4 STEP 5 List potential Hazards here: Entrapment in capsized boat Collision with other boats List groups of people at risk from hazards. Including those most vulnerable: List existing control measures or note where information may be found: All participants Rescue boat to be on water at all times. Knives to be carried on board by a competent staff crew member All participants Good group supervision Adhere to RYA Rules of the Road Drowning All participants Buoyancy aids to be worn by everyone. Instructors to check that they are sized and worn correctly Calculate the residual risk taking the presence and effectiveness of existing measures into account: Severity x Likelihood = Risk Rating List further control measures necessary to reduce risk to an acceptable level and date of their proposed introduction: Instruction given in how to avoid a capsize and in what to do in the event of a capsize

21 Hypothermia All participants Leader: Obtains weather information Advises the group re appropriate clothing Selects suitable area to operate in Monitors the wellbeing of the group Sunburn / sunstroke All participants Use sun hats/baseball caps Encourage participants to bring and use an appropriate cream/spray Drink water at regular intervals Injury caused by lifting and carrying dinghies Injury from slipping on seaweed, rocks etc. Impact injury from boom All participants All participants Seek shade where req d Instructor to brief the group on safe lifting techniques Instructor to emphasize moving slowly and carefully through such terrain All participants Instructor to raise awareness of this issue. Warn and train participants. Novices to wear a [watersports] helmet when sailing Trapped fingers All participants Care required when coming alongside Instructor should brief how to come alongside safely Instructor to exercise judgement 1 2 2

22 Jellyfish stings All participants First aid kit to include medication to combat the reaction Salt water washing recommended. First aider should wear surgical gloves Lyme s disease From Tick bites Weil's disease / Blue Green algae All When in an area with ticks advise all participants to wear long trousers and or put on an insect repellent Remind everyone to check for ticks that evening Provide guidance re how to remove them Tell participants what the signs and symptoms of Lyme s disease are and emphasise that they should to go to the doctor if they appear All All briefed to avoid consuming water (water play) Advise everyone to wash their hands before eating All advised to seek medical advice if feeling unwell after activity

23 Generic risk assessment for use by Highland Council and High Life Highland staff and volunteers For Highland Council s risk assessment training click here Watersports River and Loch [bank] Fishing All RA s should be reviewed when changes are made to the excursion, e.g. to group, staff, transport, ratios etc. Instructors to hold relevant, evidenced current competence in the activity and environmental conditions Compiled by: Nancy Chambers & Will Manners Outdoor Education Officers Date completed: 22 Jun 15 Reviewed: WMcL STEP 1 STEP 2 STEP 3 STEP 4 STEP 5 List potential Hazards here: List groups of people at risk from hazards. Including those most vulnerable: List existing control measures or note where information may be found: Drowning All participants Fishing will only take place on banks where competent leader has assessed as safe Instructors to carry throw line where considered appropriate Hypothermia All participants Leader obtains weather information, advises the group re appropriate clothing, selects suitable area to operate in, and monitors the wellbeing of the group Calculate the residual risk taking the presence and effectiveness of existing measures into account: Severity x Likelihood = Risk Rating List further control measures necessary to reduce risk to an acceptable level and date of their proposed introduction:

24 Sunburn / eye strain All participants Use sun hats Participants to bring and use an appropriate cream/spray Use sunglasses as req d Injury caused by Hook or Knife Injury from a person casting Lyme s disease From Tick bites Weil's disease / Blue Green algae All participants Instructor to brief the group on safe use of knives and or scissors, All participants Participants instructed on casting techniques and on how to avoid being struck by person casting Instructor / leader ensures that there are no obstructions (overhead lines) to casting All When in an area with ticks advise all participants to wear long trousers and or put on an insect repellent Remind everyone to check for ticks that evening Provide guidance re how to remove them Tell participants what the signs and symptoms of Lyme s disease are and emphasise that they should to go to the doctor if they appear When in a suspect environment; Advise everyone not to ingest any water Advise everyone to wash their hands before eating All advised to seek medical advice if feeling unwell after activity

25 Generic risk assessment for use by Highland Council and High Life Highland staff and volunteers For Highland Council s risk assessment training click here Watersports Open Water Snorkelling All RA s should be reviewed when changes are made to the excursion, e.g. to group, staff, transport, ratios etc. Instructors to hold relevant, evidenced current competence in the activity and environmental conditions Compiled by: Paul Burden BSAC Ocean Snorkel National Instructor Date completed: 24 Jul 15 Reviewed: WMcL STEP 1 STEP 2 STEP 3 STEP 4 STEP 5 List potential Hazards here: List groups of people at risk from hazards. Including those most vulnerable: List existing control measures or note where information may be found: Drowning All participants Hi Vis Snorkel vest to be worn by everyone. Instructors to check that they are sized and worn correctly Hypothermia All participants Leader obtains weather information which influences plan Suitable thickness of wet suit to be worn including socks, gloves and hoods, (as necessary) Selects suitable area to operate in. Calculate the residual risk taking the presence and effectiveness of existing measures into account: Severity x Likelihood = Risk Rating List further control measures necessary to reduce risk to an acceptable level and date of their proposed introduction:

26 Leader conducts head count and monitors the group. Exhaustion All participants Provide opportunities for the participants to eat drink and rest. Where necessary provide shelter Leader to ensure safe exit strategy is in place at all venues Sunburn / sunstroke All participants Use sun hats when out of the water Wear dive / snorkel hood when in the water Encourage participants to bring and use an appropriate cream/spray Drink water at regular intervals Injury caused by lifting and carrying Rescue craft Injury from slipping on seaweed, rocks etc. Entanglement in tow lines or fishing lines/nets Unable to reach a shore All participants Seek shade where required Leader to brief the group on safe lifting techniques All participants Leader to select access and egress Leader to brief group on moving slowly and carefully through such terrain All participants Leader to monitor location of group (using other competent persons as necessary) Leader to have a suitable knife readily accessible All participants Leader to provide rescue craft where appropriate, Rescue craft to be fitted out according to RYA safety boat Shore staff must have the ability to access rescue craft at short notice (own or local

27 recommendations. Where a safety boat is not required a member of staff must remain ashore in sight of the snorkelling group Jellyfish stings All participants First aid kit to include medication to combat the reaction Salt water washing recommended. First aider should wear surgical Weil's disease / Blue Green algae gloves All All briefed to highlight any possible sightings of blooms (not just green / blue) Advise everyone to wash their hands before eating rescue craft / services) All advised to seek medical advice if feeling unwell after activity

28 Generic risk assessment for use by Highland Council and High Life Highland staff and volunteers For Highland Council s risk assessment training click here Watersports Paddle Boarding All RA s should be reviewed when changes are made to the excursion, e.g. to group, staff, transport, ratios etc. Instructors to hold relevant, evidenced current competence in the activity and environmental conditions Compiled by: Kirsten Petrie BCU L3 SUP trained Date completed: 5 Jul 17 Reviewed: WMcL STEP 1 STEP 2 STEP 3 STEP 4 STEP 5 List potential Hazards here: List groups of people at risk from hazards. Including those most vulnerable: List existing control measures or note where information may be found: Instructor competence Staff Staff to hold UKCC Level 1 and to have completed paddle board training / staff familiarisation Staff trained in local water safety arrangements Drowning All watersport participants All to wear appropriately fitting floatation devices whilst on or near the water Instructor carries out regular head counts All to wear leashes Calculate the residual risk taking the presence and effectiveness of existing measures into account: Severity x Likelihood = Risk Rating List further control measures necessary to reduce risk to an acceptable level and date of their proposed introduction: Visual inspection of PPE prior to use Leashes coiled on river and loch, straight on sea

29 Cold weather injury Slips, trips and falls Equipment failure and damaged equipment Injury due to improper use of equipment Injury from other water users All watersport participants (slight builds) All watersport participants All watersport participants Instructor to assess conditions and reduce length or scope of activity as necessary Observe participants and maintain active communication Shelter available Access area to launch point cleared of obstacles or obstacles highlighted to participants Slippery areas (jetty / green slipway etc) All to wear appropriate footwear for the activity Participants briefed on lifting and moving boards Equipment checked by instructor prior to activities Participants briefed to highlight any issues with equipment Participants Participants briefed on use of boards and paddles Instructor to monitor play All watersport participants Instructor to brief participants on other users Instructor to liaise with other users as required Jellyfish stings All participants First aid kit to include medication to combat the reaction Salt water washing recommended. First aider should wear surgical gloves Wetsuit boots can be supplied as required Routine periodic equipment inspections carried out by HLH

30 Lyme s disease From Tick bites Ingestion of poor quality water Weil's disease / Blue Green algae All When in an area with ticks advise all participants to wear long trousers and or put on an insect repellent Remind everyone to check for ticks that evening Provide guidance re how to remove them Tell participants what the signs and symptoms of Lyme s disease are and emphasise that they should to go to the doctor if they appear All watersport participants Instructor to look for signs (wildfowl, algae blooms etc) HLH discuss with other local users / water managers as necessary All All briefed to avoid consuming water (water play) Advise everyone to wash their hands before eating All advised to seek medical advice if feeling unwell after activity

31 Generic risk assessment for use by Highland Council and High Life Highland staff and volunteers For Highland Council s risk assessment training click here Watersports Diving All RA s should be reviewed when changes are made to the excursion, e.g. to group, staff, transport, ratios etc. Compiled by: Willie McLeod Dive Master Date completed: 21 Aug 17 Reviewed: WMcL STEP 1 STEP 2 STEP 3 STEP 4 STEP 5 List potential Hazards here: List groups of people at risk from hazards. Including those most vulnerable: List existing control measures or note where information may be found: Drowning All participants Buoyancy Control Devices (BCDs) to be worn all to be competent in their use Instructors to check that they are sized and worn correctly All group members to be assessed as competent by the instructor in the prevailing conditions Hypothermia All participants Leader obtains weather information, Suitable thickness of wet suit to be worn including socks, gloves and hoods, (as necessary) Selects suitable area to operate in and recover to as necessary Leader conducts head count and Calculate the residual risk taking the presence and effectiveness of existing measures into account: Severity x Likelihood = Risk Rating List further control measures necessary to reduce risk to an acceptable level and date of their proposed introduction:

32 checks the well-being of the group at regular intervals. Exhaustion All participants Provide opportunities for the participants to eat drink and rest. Where necessary provide shelter Leader to ensure safe exit strategy is in place at all venues Sunburn / sunstroke All participants Use sun hats when out of the water Wear dive / snorkel hood when in the water Encourage participants to bring and use an appropriate cream/spray Drink water at regular intervals Injury caused by lifting and carrying Rescue craft Injury from slipping on seaweed, rocks etc. Unable to reach a shore Seek shade where required All participants Leader to brief the group on safe lifting techniques Banksman to ensure route is clear and lifting coordinated All participants Leader to select access and egress Leader to brief group on moving slowly and carefully through such terrain All participants Rescue craft available where judged appropriate, Rescue craft to be fitted out according to dive boat recommendations. Where a safety boat is not required a member of staff must remain ashore in sight of the snorkelling group Sun cream to be used after diving (degrades wet suits) Oxygen cylinder carried in dive boat

33 Pre-existing medical condition deteriorating All Medical self-declaration completed with referral to medical referee Sufficient first aid trained team members Ear damage All All divers to have received training on ear clearing. No diving or snorkelling is allowed by participants who have congestion Mask Squeeze All All masks used enclose both eyes and nose in same air space All trained to clear mask and equalise pressure when using a mask Injury from falling cylinders All All trainees are taught to lay heavy equipment down. Buddy help system taught to all to help with heavy kit Monitored by buddy and instructors Cylinders secured on land and on dive boat securely Running out of air All All SCUBA sets fitted with cylinder pressure gauges All divers to possess own dive computer Monitored by buddy and instructor. Instructor/trainee ratios in accordance with BSAC recommendations Harm due to rapid Ascent All Progressive training for depth. Correct weighting of all divers Monitoring by instructors and buddies. Instructor/trainee ratios in Assistance from Instructor or Buddy All divers carry AS Diving monitored by shore/boat cover able to provide/direct assistance Oxygen administration equipment and trained

34 Entanglement with nets/lines/ underwater obstacles accordance with BSAC recommendations Visual datum used for ascent exercises where appropriate All Dive Marshall to brief divers of danger areas. Divers carry appropriate cutting equipment such as filament line cutter, wire snips, diving knife, etc. used under Instructor direction Diver separation All Divers trained to dive as pairs at all times. Contact to be maintained throughout the dive. Strobes or buddy lines to be carried if appropriate Reduced visibility underwater All Dive numbers in water are controlled and monitored. Divers to carry strobes and buddy lines as appropriate Dive Marshall to dynamic risk assess and abort dive as necessary. Trips/slips and Tumbles All Dive Marshall to advise all divers of conditions at site including trip hazards and other dangers Divers to be briefed on the limitations of dive footwear. Illness from water quality All Leader to carry out any necessary local checks All group to highlight any poor water quality indicators Provide appropriate first aid on the administrators available on site Assistance available from Instructor or Buddy. Buddy to raise alarm to shore party Divers to surface immediately and reestablish contact as per training. Assistance given by shore/boat cover Dive to be abandoned in adverse visibility

35 scene Weil's disease / Blue Green algae Contact with other water users Loss of Buoyancy at surface Diving equipment malfunction Rough surface water conditions All All briefed to avoid consuming water (water play) Advise everyone to wash their hands before eating All Divers to dive with Instructor and/or buddy and use SMB or DSMB Dive Marshall to plan use of site to reduce diver/diver contact All All buoyancy devices checked for functionality before diving during buddy check and on initial entry to water. Dive to be aborted if buoyancy device gives indication of malfunction All Divers to carry AS (octopus) rig to cover loss of primary second stage which is checked during buddy checks. Buddy checks carried out before every dive. All diving equipment to be checked and serviced in accordance with regulations and before dives by divers. All Weather forecasts to be checked prior to diving excursion and monitored on site. Diving to be aborted by Dive Marshall in advent of conditions to All advised to seek medical advice if feeling unwell after activity Buddy to give assistance. Divers to raise alarm to shore/boat cover who will provide assistance as necessary Assistance from Instructor or buddy. Divers to exit water.

36 bad to dive

37 Generic risk assessment for use by Highland Council and High Life Highland staff and volunteers For Highland Council s risk assessment training click here Watersports Surfing All RA s should be reviewed when changes are made to the excursion, e.g. to group, staff, transport, ratios etc. Instructors to hold relevant, evidenced current competence in the activity and environmental conditions Compiled by: Juvenal Dufaur Will Manners Date completed: 18 Jun 15 Reviewed: WMcL STEP 1 STEP 2 STEP 3 STEP 4 STEP 5 List potential Hazards here: List groups of people at risk from hazards. Including those most vulnerable: List existing control measures or note where information may be found: Drowning All in water Activity leader must be assured of all participants swimming ability Identify low and high tide lines and any pinch points with cliffs Identify currents and rip tides and discuss their characteristics Identify the character of the waves by observation Injury / drowning due to changing weather conditions All Seek advice from any life guards present Ensure a comprehensive and relevant weather forecast is consulted Calculate the residual risk taking the presence and effectiveness of existing measures into account: Severity x Likelihood = Risk Rating List further control measures necessary to reduce risk to an acceptable level and date of their proposed introduction: Land based instructor / staff to have access to fastest means of seeking assistance (life guards / emergency services) 3 1 3

38 Injury due to impact with reef / rocky seabed Casualty deterioration due to emergency services delay Injury due to falling objects Injury from aerial hazards Injury due to contact with sea life Illness / injury due to water quality Refer to a sea state forecast and be aware of any change in swell characteristic All in water Beach break selected (in order to avoid reef / rocks) Rocks, reefs and under water obstacles identified (local knowledge, research, visual) All on beach Ensure that there is an adequate mobile signal, if not identify the nearest best signal Ensure appropriate access for emergency services and RV point All on beach Keep clear of the bases of any precipitous cliffs or those where items could fall / be dropped All on beach Avoid any low / damaged cables Avoid any areas where sea birds are diving (at people!) All in water Look for and avoid jellyfish, large fish and mammals, bottom dwelling fish, seaweed. All in water Research known water quality Look for poor water quality (pollution) indicators (dead animal/sea life, beach detritus etc) Look for floating hazards and assess safety impact / location Jellyfish stings All participants First aid kit to include medication to combat the reaction Salt water washing recommended. First aider should wear surgical Leader to possess group shelter and warm drinks as necessary

39 gloves Weil's disease / Blue Green algae All All briefed to highlight any possible sightings of blooms (not just green / blue) Advise everyone to wash their hands before eating All advised to seek medical advice if feeling unwell after activity

40 Generic risk assessment for use by Highland Council and High Life Highland staff and volunteers List potential Hazards here: Drowning through lack of buoyancy Water Sports Powerboating including use as a Safety Boat or Towing For Highland Council s risk assessment training click here All RA s should be reviewed when changes are made to the excursion, e.g. to group, staff, transport, ratios etc. Instructors to hold relevant, evidenced current competence in the activity and environmental conditions Compiled by: Paul Burden Level 3 Inshore Instructor Date of completion: 24 Jul 15 Reviewed: WMcL STEP 1 STEP 2 STEP 3 STEP 4 STEP 5 List groups of people at risk from hazards. Including those most vulnerable: Occupants of the powerboat List existing control measures or note where information may be found: Lifejackets or buoyancy aids to be worn by the driver and crew If life jackets, Automatic inflation for children, young people and adults new to the activity/environment Manual or automatic for adults familiar with the activity/environment e.g. able to tread water and swim Driver checks that all lifejackets or Calculate the residual risk taking the presence and effectiveness of existing measures into account: Severity x Likelihood = Risk Rating List further control measures necessary to reduce risk to an acceptable level and date of their proposed introduction:

41 Death due to immersion hypothermia Harm from falling out of the powerboat Harm as a result of the powerboat capsizing Occupants of the powerboat Occupants of the powerboat Occupants of the powerboat buoyancy aids are fitted properly Crew briefed and checked for appropriate dress, by the driver i.e. able to withstand a few minutes in the water Powerboat to be operated in a manner which keeps the chances of a Man Over Board (MOB) to a minimum Crew instructed by the driver on how to and where to sit/hold on At least one person in the powerboat will hold a current and relevant 1 st aid certificate 1 st aid kit carried on board Driver should be proficient in dealing with/recovering a Man Over Board Water and weather conditions continually appraised and speed, sharpness of turn etc. adjusted appropriately Powerboat will not be loaded beyond the permissible maximum load Any load (other than people) secured Boat trimmed and balanced Driver does a head count looks for those missing under the powerboat VHF radio used to inform the Coastguard via channel 16, unless

42 Harm as a result of the powerboat colliding with fixed or free floating or moving objects Injury from lifting/moving the powerboat, trailer, large fuel containers Injury from the propeller Occupants of the powerboat, marine life and others Occupants of the powerboat, and others Occupants of the powerboat, and others appropriate help is immediately at hand When it is discovered/known that there is a VHF blackspot, attempt to contact the emergency services using a mobile phone using 999 or 112 Crew briefed to continually keep a good look out Driver aware of the IRPCS rights of way Charts should be referred to for relevant information, Local knowledge should be sought out where possible Operate in deep water where possible Drivers will adhere to the Scottish Marine Wildlife Watching Code Powerboat and trailer should be moved with sufficient people request additional help when required Driver directs all moving and lifting of heavy/awkward objects When on land, the engine when switched on, must be in neutral e.g. when flushing out. No kill cord attached to the ignition Everyone must stand clear of the propeller when flushing out Driver must always wear the Kill Cord when the engine is running and the powerboat is on the water

43 Injury from the engine Being adrift due to engine failure Occupants of the powerboat Occupants of the powerboat There should, in normal circumstances, be sufficient people at hand so somebody can constantly, with ease, inform the driver of the whereabouts of a person in the water Driver should be proficient in dealing with/recovering a Man Over Board The engine should be kept furthest away from the person being recovered The Engine should be switched off and kill cord removed if recovering someone over the back of the boat using the ventilation plate Engine must be checked before use for leaks, loose parts etc. The engine cowling should not be opened/removed when the engine is running An appropriate fire extinguisher/s must be carried Engine must be regularly maintained / serviced (records should be kept) Engine must be looked over before use for leaks, loose parts etc. Spare fuel is carried as a supplement (must be secured) Alternative means of propulsion (in good working order) must be carried securely on board 3 1 3

44 Sunburn Injury from Slips, trips an falls in the powerboat Injury from Slips, trips an falls on shore Injury from fuel Ignition Occupants of the powerboat Occupants of the powerboat Occupants of the powerboat and others helping to launch/recover the powerboat Occupants of the powerboat An appropriate anchor must be carried A VHF radio (mobile phone as a back-up) must be carried Crew to be reminded of the additional glare when on water Crew to be instructed to bring sun hats, sun cream and sun glasses when appropriate Crew reminded to take extra care when moving around the powerboat All reminded that there should be no running or horseplay on the jetty on pontoons or in the harbour area in general All reminded to take extra care at times other than high tide due to exposed slippery surfaces No smoking No filling of fuel cans whilst engine is running Re-fuelling cans is done off the boat if possible Fuel line should be checked for cracks and splits frequently Spilled fuel should be cleaned up immediately Injury from towing craft Towing only conducted by competent staff / instructor Appropriate towing equipment and bulkheads / lashing points used Competent staff / instructor in Tow line releasable at both ends Boom lowered / released depending on craft