atlantic outdoors please find enclosed in this document ... external group info.pdf · taking part...

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Atlantic Outdoors External Group Information To Whom It May Concern: Please find enclosed in this document the common written assurances that maybe required by an organisation, local authority or institution to satisfy that the regulatory requirements of delivering an outdoor and adventure activity service are being met. Atlantic Outdoors delivers a wide and diverse outdoor learning programme, which includes land, water, underground, and sea based adventure activities. The college has a range of onsite facilities (e.g. climbing wall, swimming pool) and it also benefits from its coastal location. Sessions are also delivered off site at venues away from the college and occasionally further afield in the UK and Europe.

Taking part in any adventurous activity involves some element of risk. It is not possible to totally eliminate all risks. The management of safety is the shared responsibility of the participant, parent/ carer and Atlantic Outdoors staff. Where the risks are managed effectively, a balance is achieved between having fun, learning and everyone’s safety. The range of activities offered can be grouped into the following categories and examples: Mountain and Land Based Trekking and Mountaineering, Rock Climbing, Abseiling, Mountain Biking, Caving, Camp Craft Water Based Kayaking (sea and inland), Canoeing, Sailing and Sail Sports, Power Boating, White Water Rafting, Paddle Boarding, Swimming Sea and Surf Board Surfing, Surf Lifesaving, Surf Kayaking Combined Water and Rock Coasteering, Gorge Scrambling General Activity Archery, Problem Solving and Initiative Tasks, Bush Craft, Field Work, Games Award Schemes and National Governing Body Awards Atlantic Outdoors is a licensed organisation for the Duke of Edinburgh Award and work in partnership with a range of NGB’s to deliver leadership awards, certificated training and assessment. Specific information about the activity(s) being offered and/or curriculum being followed can either be found in the supporting documentation supplied or can be viewed on the Atlantic College website: www.atlanticcollege.org Our Commitment to Safety Atlantic Outdoors identifies and assesses hazards and takes the necessary action to manage the risks associated. We have a safety management system, which is backed up inspectors from the Adventurous Activities Licensing Authority and Royal Yachting Association. (License number R0118) Should you wish to discuss any aspects of outoor and adventure activity and learning or if you have any questions about the delivery of the programme and/or activity you can contact the Director of Outdoor Learning. Tom Partridge – [email protected] +44(0)1446 799025

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Group Leaders/Organisers Contribution to Safety Group Leaders/Organisers need to prepare the group by informing them of what is expected of them when participating in a programme or activity with Atlantic Outdoors. In addition, it will be the group leader who will be responsible for the care and safety of all participants within their care outside of the designated activity sessions. Any relevant information (such as medical) must be relayed to the staff and will be treated as confidential. Working with your group on any activity is collaboration between Group Leaders/Organisers and Atlantic Outdoors staff. Group Leaders/Organisers are expected to assist and support their group by participating in the activity or by being as close to the activity as Possible. Participants Contribution Anyone taking part in an activity or programme should have received information regarding the activity. Any information provided on the consent form must be accurate and up to date. Atlantic Outdoors applies a ‘Challenge by Choice’ ethos to all of our sessions therefore it is the participant who choses the level at which they wish to push themselves within the activity and the option to stop, end or take a break from the activity will exists. Staff are there for your safety and in the event of a situation arising where your safety (or others) is at risk then the member of staff may instruct or guide you/group away from the potential hazard, It therefore important that during a session ALL PARTICIPANTS (and staff) listen and abide by any instructions/rules for the activity. Consent Prior to taking part in ANY activity with Atlantic Outdoors it is essential that consent is gained. If you are a group/organisation that already gains consent to participate in outdoor and adventure activities or gather such permission as part of your own processes (e.g. in a school or college) then you can complete the form AO2 (Group Consent). If you are an individual or have not gained consent you must complete form AO3 (Participant Consent). In the case that you fill in AO2 then you must be able to provide us access, if required, to full contact, medical and other relevant information should we require this (e.g. in the event of an accident / incident). Any person filling in a consent form must have had access to the Information and Guidance (AO1) which can be used for reference, information and also gives the person signing for consent an opportunity to ask any questions they may have about the activities or programme.

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External Providers Check List (for External Group Use) Name of Provider: ATLANTIC OUTDOORS UWC Atlantic College, St. Donats Castle. Llantwit Major. CF61 1WF Phone: 01446 799027 Email: [email protected] Health, Safety and Emergency Policy 1.! The provider complies with the relevant health and safety regulations, including the Health and Safety

at Work Act 1974 and associated regulations for visits/activities, and has a health and safety policy and recorded risk assessments which are available for inspection.

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2.! Accident and emergency procedures are maintained and records are available for inspection. ! 3.! The provider operates a policy for staff recruitment, induction and training that ensures that all staff

with a responsibility for participants have the experience and competence to undertake their duties. !

4.! There is a clear and communicated definition of responsibilities between the provider’s staff and visiting staff regarding supervision and welfare of participants.

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5.! The provider has a Code of Conduct which will be employed where appropriate and supplied in advance of any booking. Visiting groups should adhere to the Code of Conduct.

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Staffing 6.! The provider has a safeguarding policy covering staff recruitment, induction and training. To support

this policy all reasonable steps are taken to check staff/volunteers, who will have access to young people, for relevant criminal history and suitability for work with young people. (i.e. UK CRB checks)

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7.! There are adequate and regular opportunities for liaison between school/organisation staff and the provider’s staff to agree learning outcomes and to agree if necessary any changes to the programme.

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Insurance 8.! The provider has public liability insurance for a minimum of £5 million. ! Inclusion & Environment 9.! The provider will take all reasonable steps to allow inclusion and participation of any young people who

have special needs or have a disability, following a risk assessment process, in line with the Special Educational Needs and Disability Act 2001 and Disability Discrimination Act 2005.

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10.! The provider encourages responsible attitudes to the environment and/or promotes wider sustainability issues as an integral part of the programme.

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Vehicles 11.! All vehicles are roadworthy and meet the requirements of relevant regulations in the country in which

they are being used. !

12.! Where applicable drivers are PCV qualified or operate with a small bus permit and local minibus driving assessment.

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13.! All drivers are appropriately insured and hold a valid licence to drive them on behalf of the provider. ! Accommodation (if residential or main use accommodation is provided) 14.! A fire risk assessment has been completed, reviewed appropriately and meets the requirements of the

Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. !

15.! Security arrangements have been assessed and all reasonable steps taken to prevent unauthorised persons entering the accommodation.

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16.! Separate male and female sleeping accommodation and washing facilities are provided. Staff accommodation is suitably located to ensure adequate supervision.

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Activity Management 17.!The ratios of staff to young people for the activities confirm to those recommended by the appropriate

National Governing Bodies (NGB) & LA, or, in the absence of this, the provider’s Code of Practice informed by risk assessment.

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18.!The provider maintains a written code of practice for activities, which is consistent with relevant NGB guidelines or in their absence, recognised national/best practise standards.

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19.!Staff competences are confirmed by the appropriate NGB qualification for the activity to be undertaken, or staff have had their competences confirmed by an appropriately experienced and qualified technical adviser.

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20.!The provider has made an assessment of the first aid needs of employees and visitors/participants. There will be adequate and appropriate facilities along with access to a person with a valid and appropriate level of first aid qualification. Staff are practised and competent in accident and emergency procedures.

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21.!All equipment used in activities is suited to the task, adequately maintained and monitored in accordance with statutory requirements and current good practice, with records kept on maintenance checks where necessary.

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AALA Licence For AALA licensable activities in the UK, the specifications in this section are checked as part of an AALA inspection. However, providers registered with AALA are asked to consider these applications with respect to any activities or aspects of their provision offered that are not covered by the licence.

22.!Adventure Activities Licensing Authority (AALA) Licence held. (Please provide Reference Number and Expiry Date).

! R0118 june17

Information prepared by: Tom Partridge, Director of Outdoor Learning

Signed: Date: 20.05.16 Attached:

•! Copy of PL Insurance •! Copy of AALA License Document •! Copy of Relevant NOP, EAP and Risk Assessment

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Archery'NOP'EAP'RA'Latest'version'05.16'!

ACTIVTY'SPECIFIC'SAFETY'GUIDELINES','OPERATING'PROCEDURES'AND'EMERGECNY'ACTION''

Archery''

To'be'used'in'conjunction'with'generic'normal'operating'procedures,'emergency'action'procedures'and'risk'management'statements'for'all/any'type'of'visit,'activity'or'trip.''Archery'GB'(formerly'GNAS)'is'the'National'Governing'Body'(NGB)'for'caving'in'Great'Britain.'Archery'GB'current'practices'and'recommendations'should'be'used'as'the'minimum'standard.''More'information'can'be'found'at:'www.archerygb.org''The'Site:'

Archery'takes'place'on'the'Jousting'Field'and'when'necessary'on'either'the'King'George'V'sports'field'or'one'of'the'farm'fields.'Each'site'is'individually'risk'assessed'and'will'undergo'a'dynamic'(on'the'day)'risk'assessment'to'ensure'the'appropriateness'of'the'venue.'At'each'of'the'venues'use'of'the'following'must'be'observed.'

!" There'must'be'a'minimum'overshoot'distance'behind'the'targets'of'100metres'!" There'must'be'a'minimum'side'margin'of'20metres'between'the'range'and'any'other'building'or'

structure.'

Preparation:'

!" Ensure'that'the'venue'is'suitable'for'purpose'and'that'no'other'activities'are'taking'place'within'the'safety'margins'stated'above.'

!" It'is'essential'that'Bows'and'Arrows,'when'stored,'are'kept'in'a'lockable'room'and'that'access'to'that'room'is'only'allowed'by'staff.'The'Archery'store'must'not'be'left'open'without'an'instructor'in'attendance'and'the'key'must'be'kept'both'prior'to'and'post'the'session'in'the'main'key'cabinet.'

!" Strings'should'be'checked'for'knots'or'frays'and'if'found'strings'should'be'removed'from'service'and'replaced'with'new'ones.'

!" Bows'and'Arrows'must'not'be'left'unattended'at'any'time'especially'during'the'setting'up'of'the'field.''!" Group'members'must'not'be'allowed'to'carry'Arrows'to'and'from'the'field.'!" Arrows'must'be'kept'in'a'suitably'protective'carrier'until'dispensed'at'the'firing'line.'!" Setting'up'of'the'range'layout'must'be'done'prior'to'the'arrival'of'the'participants/group'members.'!" The'distance'between'the'shooting'line'and'the'bosses'must'not'be'more'than'10'metres.'!" The'distance'between'the'shooting'line'and'the'waiting'line'must'not'be'less'than'4'metres.'!" All'participants'must'be'behind'the'waiting'line'during'the'safety'briefing'and'must'not'be'allowed'to'

encroach'beyond'this'unless'engaged'in'the'activity.'!" Instructors'must'give'a'detailed'safety'briefing'on'all'the'relevant'rules'and'this'must'include'the'

following:'!" Introductory'commands'and'designated'areas'!" Shooting'rules'and'safety'on'and'off'the'range'!" Arrow'retrieval'and'safe'approach'and'carrying'of'equipment.'

!" Participants'must'be'made'aware'of'the'clothing'requirements'for'this'activity'as'per'the'activity'clothing'lists.'

'

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Activity'Session:'

'!" Long'sleeves'should'be'worn'at'all'times,'in'the'event'the'archer'does'not'have'long'sleeves,'

armguards'MUST'be'worn'instead.'!" 'Equipment'should'not'be'touched'by'the'group'until'they'are'told'to'do'so.'!" 'If'anyone,'e.g.'dog'walkers,'orienteering'groups,'etc'encroaches'into'the'safety'zone'shooting'must'

stop'until'the'area'is'cleared.'!" 'Teaching'should'be'done'in'a'series'of'easy'stages'and'participants'should'be'given'as'much'practice'

of'the'various'stages'as'possible.'!" Bows'should'not'be'loaded'until'the'command'is'given.''A'loaded'bow'must'always'point'at'the'target.''

There'should'be'5—10'centimetres'of'arrow'extended'beyond'the'bow'when'the'bow'is'drawn.'

!" Once'the'“release”'command'has'been'given'no]one'should'cross'the'shooting'line.'!" Instructors'should'always'double'check'that'all'arrows'have'been'released.'!" Arrows'should'not'be'left'unattended.'!" Bows'should'be'placed'on'the'ground'before'the'arrows'are'collected'and'at'any'time'when'someone'

is'in'front'of'the'shooting'line.'

!" Running'to'collect'arrows'is'forbidden'and'care'must'be'taken'when'withdrawing'the'arrows'from'the'target.''Arrows'should'be'carried'point'down.'If'students'are'collecting'arrows,'it'must'be'closely'supervised'by'the'instructor'and'no'more'than'2'students'per'target.''

!" When'2'targets'are'being'used,'the'collection'of'arrows'from'both'targets'must'occur'at'the'same'time.''One'target’s'arrows'must'never'be'collected'whilst'firing'is'happening'on'the'adjacent'target.'Shooting'must'never'recommence'until'everyone'is'back'behind'the'waiting'line'

!" Instructors'must'position'themselves'in'such'a'way'that'they'maintain'total'control'of'the'shooting'line'and'that'no]one'can'load'or'shoot'a'bow'accept'when'standing'astride'the'shooting'line'and'aiming'in'the'direction'of'the'target.'

!" Supervision'of'those'participants'behind'the'waiting'line'should'be'the'responsibility'of'a'second'instructor'or'designated'responsible'adult.'''

!" This'activity'is'weather'dependent.''If'the'weather'should'deteriorate'during'the'course'of'the'activity,'a'senior'staff'member'must'be'consulted'and'the'session'may'be'stopped.'

!" There'are'to'be'no'long'distance'shooting'competitions.'

End'of'Session:'

!" All'arrows'must'be'accounted'for'prior'to'leaving'the'venue'and'must'be'placed'in'the'appropriate'carrier'before'departure.'Arrows'not'accounted'for'should'be'search'for'and'if'not'found,'a'member'of'the'staff'must'be'informed'of'this.'

!" Arrows'must'not'be'carried'by'participants'leaving'the'venue,'although'help'with'the'bosses'and'firing'lines'etc'is'permissible'with'supervision'from'an'instructor.'

!" All'equipment'must'be'checked'and'any'faulty'equipment'taken'out'of'use'and'recorded.'!" Bows'must'be'de]strung'and'secured'back'within'the'locked'store'room.'!" The'archery'store'key'must'be'placed'back'on'the'main'key'cabinet'after'each'session'

'

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Archery''Emergency'Action:''Leaders'should'either'hold'the'recognised'NGB'for'the'activity'(e.g.'GNAS'or'Archery'Leader)'or'have'a'statement'of'competence'(which'would'include'an'assessment)'verified'by'a'technical'advisor'/'expert.'In'either'case,'part'of'this'process'would'include'an'assessed'element'of'dealing'with'typical'activity'specific'emergency'scenarios.'Leaders'should'use'appropriate'technical'and'leadership'skills'to'deal'with'any'given'situation.''As'a'minimum'instructors'are'to'have'ready'access'to:''-" Suitable'first'aid'equipment'(for'whole'group)'-" Medical'/'personal'information'of'group'(including'total'number'and'names,'medication'etc.)'-" Emergency'kit'suitable'for'site'and'prevailing'conditions'(e.g.'group'shelter,'access'to'minibus,'hot'

drinks,'map,'compass'etc.)'-" Emergency'kit'suitable'for'dealing'with'emergencies''

''''''''''''''''''''''''''''

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ACTIVTY'AND'SITE'SPECIFIC'RISK'ASSESSMENT''

Archery''Assessed'by:'Emyr'Rees' ' ' ' ' ' ''''''''''Date'of'Latest'Assessment:'See'Footer''

List'of'risks'arising'from'activities' Control'measures'in'place'to'reduce'risk'of'hazard'

Arrangements'to'ensure'the'control'measures'continue'to'be'effectively'implemented'

Arrows"(unattended"leading"to"misuse/accident"or"firing"accident)"

Arrows"must"not"be"left"unattended"(either"locked"in"the"store"or"supervised"by"the"instructor"!"see:"site"specific"operating"procedures).""Arrows"should"be"at"least"30”"(inches),""

Training,"quality"of"instruction,"close"supervision"and"teaching"correct"use"of"equipment/retrieval"of"arrows.'

Wet"under"foot"(slip"and"fall)" Controlled"verbally"by"instructor"/"correct"footwear/use"of"safe"access"route"

'

Bow"string"striking"arms"Existing"controls:"wear"long"sleeves"and"avoidance"via"adapted"technique"and"armguards."

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Wind" If"wind"strength"/"direction"are"likely"to"cause"danger,"activity"is"stopped."

AO'member'of'staff'to'make'final'decision'on'weather'conditions'for'session'

Trees"(falling"debris)" Activity"takes"place"with"ample"safety"margin"with"regard"to"any"danger"posed"by"trees."

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State"of"field"–"pot"holes"–"surrounds"

Group"control"in"the"form"of"verbal"warning/pre!activity"inspection"

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Weather"(storm,"temperature)"

Activity"will"not"take"place"if"deemed"unsafe"by"duty"member"of"staff.""Weather"information"available"in"AO"office.""If"weather"is"inclement"but"still"safe,"appropriate"clothing"must"be"worn."

AO'member'of'staff'to'make'final'decision'on'weather'conditions'for'session'

Overdrawing"bow"

Controlled"verbally"by"instructor/demonstration"of"correct"technique/appropriate"selection"and"use"of"the"equipment"i.e.:"arrow"length"and"bow"size."

Training,"quality"of"instruction,"close"supervision"and"teaching"correct"use"of"equipment.'

!Learning'Arrows'

'Atlantic'College'operates'the'‘Learning'Arrows’'programme'which'is'set'up'and'endorsed'by'Archery'GB.'For'

more'info'visit'Archery'GB'!

Caving'and'Underground'Exploration'NOP'EAP'RA'Latest'Version'05.16' 1

!ACTIVTY!SPECIFIC!SAFETY!GUIDELINES!,!OPERATING!PROCEDURES!AND!EMERGECNY!ACTION!

!Caving!and!Underground!Exploration!

!To'be'used'in'conjunction'with'generic'normal'operating'procedures,'emergency'action'procedures'and'risk'management'statements'for'all/any'type'of'visit,'activity'or'trip.''The'BCA'is'the'National'Governing'Body'(NGB)'for'caving'in'Great'Britain.'The'BCA'current'practices'and'recommendations'should'be'used'as'the'minimum'standard'for'conduct'of'caving'and'underground'activities.'More'information'can'be'found'at:'www.britishRcaving.org.uk''Approved!technical!expert!for!Atlantic!Outdoors:!Juliet!Parker!Smith!(CIC)!'Preparation:''

-! It'is'essential'to'arrange'a'base'contact'that'is'understanding'of'the'procedure'for'initiating'a'cave'rescue'call'out'

-! Where'there'is'a'plan'to'visit'active'parts'of'a'cave'or'water'is'known'to'effect'the'cave'system'it'is'essential'to'obtain'a'realiable'and'detailed'weather'forecast'as'well'as'understand'the'history'of'the'weather'for'the'area'

-! Weather'not'only'effects'the'cave'systems,'some'of'the'locations'are'exposed'and'remote.'These'should'be'treated'as'a'‘mountain'day’'activity'and'prepared'for'appropriatley''

'Activity'Session:''

-! Briefings'to'group'on'environmental'issues'associated'whilst'underground'(eg.'Wildlife,'formations'etc)'

-! Helmets'must'be'worn'at'all'times'whilst'underground,'including'near'cave'entrances'and/or'cliff'faces.''Cave'entrances'and'areas'of'loose'rock'must'be'avoided'where'posible'and'groups'should'not'linger'in'these'areas'

-! Briefings'to'group'on'correct'movements'whilst'underground'-! Group'members'should'know'what'to'do'if'they'are'split'up'or'sepaaated'from'the'group'/'

leader'-! All'inRsitu'gear'needs'to'be'checked'and'if'in'any'doubt'not'used.'Further'advice'can'be'sought'

from'the'technical'adviser'''End'of'Session:''

-! If'ropes'have'become'dirty'or'muddy'then'they'should'be'washed'(in'cold'fresh'water)'and'checked'for'any'damages'

-! Sign'off'from'their'base'contact'(from'caving'part'of'the'actvity)'''''''''


'ACTIVTY!SPECIFIC!SAFETY!GUIDELINES!,!OPERATING!PROCEDURES!AND!EMERGECNY!ACTION!


'Additional'Guidelines'for'Vertical'and/or'Extended'Caving'Trips:''

-! The'student’s'suitability,'aptitude'and'attitude'towards'vertical'caving'needs'to'be'very'carefully'assessed'to'ensure'that'the'structure'of'the'lesson'and'route'will'suit'the'needs'of'the'individuals.'Route'choice,'venue,'instructor'knowledge'and'judgement'are'key'to'providing'a'safe'and'enjoyable'adventure'activity'at'this'level.'

-! When'setting'up'belays/systems'consideration'should'be'given'to'line'of'site'of'the'group'to'enable'clear'communication'and'visual'aid'in'case'of'emergency.'Also'to'ensure'that'rigging'is'kept'“clean”,'high'and'effective'to'minimise'time'on'pitches.'In'some'cases'this'is'not'always'possible'and'should'be'briefed'and'explained'to'all'of'the'group'prior'to'departing'a'stance'

-! Clear'communication'methods'(calls,'whistles'etc)'need'to'be'agreed'before'setting'off'on'a'pitch'to'enable'group'to'effectively'relay'messages'to'each'other.'

-! Belayers'(where'necessary)'should'be'assessed'for'suitability'and'backed'up'where/when'necessary.'Assistants'may'be'utilised'to'safeguard'leader'if'there'are'concerns'

-! It'is'recommended'that'where'possible'ladder,'cows'tails'and'abseil'technique'is'practiced'in'a'safe'and'convienient'place'prior'to'undertaking'a'cave'trip'of'such'nature.'Examples'of'this'are'climbing'walls,'outside'the'cave'etc.'Good'ladder'technique'should'always'be'discussed'and'where'necessary'demonstrated'as'well'as'clipping'and'using'cows'tails.'

-! All'inRsitu'gear'needs'to'be'checked'and'if'in'any'doubt'not'used.'Further'advice'can'be'sought'from'the'technical'adviser''

-! Group'and'leader'to'wear'appropriate'technical'equipment'(SRT'rig,'harnesses,'dynamic'cows'tails'etc)'on'vertical'caving'trips.'However,'methods'of'improvising'such'equipment'should'be'well'practiced'in'case'of'failure'or'dropping'of'equipment'etc.'

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ACTIVTY!SPECIFIC!SAFETY!GUIDELINES!,!OPERATING!PROCEDURES!AND!EMERGECNY!ACTION!!

Caving!and!Underground!Exploration!'Emercency'Action:''Leaders'shuold'either'hold'the'recognised'NGB'for'the'actvity'(e.g.'LCL'level'1)'or'have'a'statement'of'competence'(which'would'include'an'assessment)'verified'by'a'technical'advisor'/'expert.'In'either'case,'part'of'this'process'would'include'an'assessed'element'of'dealing'with'typical'activity'specific'emergecny'senarios.'Leaders'should'use'appripritoe'techincal'and'leadership'skills'to'deal'with'any'given'situation.''As!a!minimum!instructors!are!to!have!ready!access!to:!'

-! Suitable'first'aid'equipment'(for'whole'group)'-! Medical'/'personal'information'of'group'(including'total'number'and'names,'medication'etc.)'-! Emergency'kit'suitable'for'site'and'prevailing'conditions'(e.g.'group'shelter,'access'to'minibus,'

hot'drinks,'map,'compass'etc.)'-! Emergency'kit'suitable'for'dealing'with'underground'emergencies'(e.g.'spare'lighting,'clothing,'

relevant'technical'rescue'equipment)'-! Leaders'to'carry'appropriate'rescue'equipment'to'undertake'a'possible'rescue'from'a'vertical'

cave,'including'a'stuck'caver/group'and'retreat'from'the'cave'in'an'emergency'situation.'Ladders'are'to'be'releasable'in'case'of'stuck'caver'on'ladder'

''!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


!ACTIVTY!SPECIFIC!RISK!ASSESSMENT!


!Assessed'by:'Tom'Partridge'and'Juliet'Parker'Smit' ' ''''''''''''Date'of'Latest'Assessment:'See'Footer'

List!of!risks!arising!from!activities'

Control!measures!in!place!to!reduce!risk!of!hazard'

Arrangements!to!ensure!the!control!measures!continue!to!be!effectively!implemented'

Group'members'getting'lost'

or'split'up'whilst'approaching,'

during'and'on'returning'from'

the'activity'

'

Slipping'or'falling'whilst'

underground'(e.g.'small'

boulders,'drops,'rock'steps'

etc.)'

'

Cold'water'and'cave'

environment'leading'to'

hypothermia'

'

Injury'to'head'

'

'

Students'/'staff'getting'

temporarily'stuck'in'narrow'

passages'

'

Risk'of'water'borne'infections'

'

'

Deep/Moving'Water'

'

'

'

Loose'rock/areas'of'instability'

in'and'around'entrances'

'

'

'

Interference'with'wildlife'and'

environment'

'

'

Flooding'in'cave'

'

'

'

Tired/Stuck'caver'on'

rope/ladder'

Group'to'be'led'and'closely'supervised'by'the'

instructor.'Leader'to'carry'equipment'to'deal'

with'any'navigation'needed'on'the'surface'and'

also'underground'

'

Instructor'to'give'clear'briefings'on'actions'and'

movement,'correct'footwear'to'be'worn.'

Students'could,'if'appropriate,'assist'each'other.'

Use'of'lifeline/handline'when'necessary'

'

Instructor'to'ensure'correct'and'suitable'clothing'

worn'and'emergency'equipment'carried.'Plan'

suitable'route/trip/activity'in'cave'for'the'group'

'

Helmets'to'be'worn'at'all'times'in'and'around'the'

cave/whilst'underground'

'

Instructor'to'brief'students'on'techniques,'keep'

calm.'Stay'close'to'advise'

'

'

All'cuts'to'be'covered'and'educate'students'on'

action'to'be'taken.'

'

Areas'should'be'avoided'but'could'be'included'if'

BA’s'are'used.'Also'consider'wetsuits/suitable'

clothing'

'

Group'to'be'closely'supervised,'avoid'where'

possible.'When'there'is'a'risk'outside'of'the'

location'helmets'should'be'worn.'Education'to'

group'

'

Group'to'be'educated'and'closely'supervised'

'

'

'

Leader'to'be'qualified'and'working'within'their'

remit,'obtain'a'clear'weather'forecast'and'also'

understand'the'weather'history'for'the'area'

'

Leader'to'be'qualified'and'working'within'their'

remit,'group'to'be'suitably'equiped'and'prepared'

for'a'caving'trip'and'leader'to'understand'and'be'

able'to'impliemtn'a'necessary'rescue'/'release'a'

stuck'caver'from'a'rope/ladder.'Where'possible,'

systemns'could'be'releasable'or'solved'with'the'

use'of'a'‘rescue’'rope'

Assistant'instructor'to'assist'(where'possible)'

'

Assistant'instructor'to'assist.'Adhere'to'

approved'routes/areas'

'

Ensure'correct'kit'available.'Suitably'qualified'

staff'

'

'

'

Ensure'correct'kit'available'and'leader'is'

knowledgeable'on'the'routes'available'

'

'

Periodic'checks'by'DOL'and'technical'advisor'

'

'

Instructor'to'have'a'good'working'knowledge'

of'underground'features'and'also'capabilities'

of'group.'Adhere'to'approved'routes/areas'

'

Periodic'checks'by'DOL'and'technical'advisor'

'

'


of'underground'features'and'also'capabilities'

of'group.'Adhere'to'approved'routes/areas'

'


of'underground'features'and'also'seek'advice'

from'technical'advisors.'Adhere'to'approved'

routes/areas'

'



from'technical'advisors'

'



from'technical'advisors'

'

Instructor'to'be'qualified'and'remain'current'

and'valid'as'a'cave'leader'/'instructor.'This'

includes'being'well'practiced'in'such'rescue'

protocols'

!NB.!RADONS!The!risks!associated!with!Radon!are!of!no!consequence!to!the!group!members!due!to!the!very!limited!exposure!they!will!receive.!However,!staff!undertaking!several!caving!trips!on!a!regular!basis!should!consult!with!the!Technical!Advisor!–!Juliet!Parker!Smith.!Caves!that!are!identified!as!high!radon!counts!are!noted!in!the!site!specific!risk!assessment!


!SITE!SPECIFIC!RISK!ASSESSMENT!


!SOUTH!WALES!Cave! Details! Ratio! Leader!Qual!Porth!Yr!Ogof!SO009909'

Emergency'phone'in'warden'hut'No'Signal'

1:10'Max'Group'Size'12'

LCL'1'or''LCL'2'(avens)'

Additional!Site!Specific!Hazards!/!Risks' Planned!Control!Busy'venue''

•! Group'kept'under'close'supervision'and'breifed'on'what'to'do'if'split'up'from'group'

Rapid'response'to'rainfall'''

•! Leader'to'undrstand'the'effects'of'rain'on'the'cave'and'the'history'/'forecast'of'any'rainfall.''

•! Leader'to'be'able'to'identify'an'appropriate'entrance'/'exit'for'the'group'and'conditions.'

Deep'Water'/'moving'water''

•! Group'to'be'kept'under'close'supervision'in'these'areas'and'if'any'deep'sections'of'water'are'to'be'included'the'group'must'be'equipped'in'floatation'devices'and'dressed'appropriately'(e.g.'wetsuit)'

Loose'rock'near'entrances''

•! Do'not'linger'in'these'areas'and'helmets'are'to'be'worn'in'advance'of'approaching'any'entrance'

!Cave! Details! Ratio! Leader!Qual!Eglws!Faen!SO009909'

Signal'at'cave'entrance'Car'park'theft'risk'


LCL'1'''

Additional!Site!Specific!Hazards!/!Risks' Planned!Control!Exposed'mountain'location''

•! Suitble'equipment'should'be'carried'to'deal'with'a'given'situation'given'the'remote'location.'

•! If'group'are'getting'wet'then'this'needs'to'be'considered'for'the'walk'back'to'the'parking'

•! Areas'of'loose'rock'on'the'approach'path'require'care,'helmets'are'suggested'on'the'approach'along'the'tramroad'once'past'White'Walls.'

Squeeze'through'to'the'boulder'choke''

•! Leader'to'consider'size'and'ability'of'group'and'manage'any'stuck'or'nervous'cavers'appropriatley'

Dig'areas'and'scafold'areas' •! Leader'to'avoid'these'areas'with'group'!!!!!!!!!!


!SOUTH!WALES!(cont’d)!!Cave! Details! Ratio! Leader!Qual!Talybont!Tunnel!SO009909'

Limited'signal'through'the'forest'Tree'felling'in'area'

1:14' Site'Spec'Sign'off'

Additional!Site!Specific!Hazards!/!Risks' Planned!Control!Exposed'location''


Access' •! Access'from'the'Talybont'side'only'Loose'rock'/'structure' •! Tunnel'to'be'inspected'as'used'and'annually'by'

techincal'expert'•! Loose'areas'/'areas'of'concern'should'be'reported'•! Helmets'must'be'worn'at'all'time'in'and'around'the'

tunnel'Group'splitting'up'during'games'/'challenges'

•! Leader'to'carry'sufficient'light'and'consider'suitabliilty'of'task'/'game'given'the'length'of'the'tunnel,'ability'and'conditions'undefoot'(slips'and'trips)'

!WYE!VALLEY!Cave! Details! Ratio! Leader!Qual!C10!Complex' Signal'at'crag'/'cafe' 1:15'(part'of'Rock'n'Holl)'

min'2'competent'staff'LCL1'trg'plus'SPA'plus'Sign'Off'(TP)'

Additional!Site!Specific!Hazards!/!Risks' Planned!Control!Slippery'rock'in'cave' •! Most'of'cave'is'hands'and'knees.'Group'to'be'breifed'Loose'rock'stacks' •! Group'to'be'breifed'and'managed'Wrong'turns' •! Staff'located'to'avoid'possibilty'Climb'out'of'hole' •! Hanress'will'be'worn'and'group'lifelined'by'leader'

!YORKSHIRE!DALES!Cave! Details! Ratio! Leader!Qual!Yordas!Cave!SO009909'

Nearest'farm'–'Braida'Garth'No'Signal'

1:6'Max'Group'Size'8'Plus'Competent'Assistant'

CIC''

Additional!Site!Specific!Hazards!/!Risks' Planned!Control!Cold'and'wet''

•! Group'should'be'equipped'for'a'wet'and'cold'trip.'Additional'clothing'and'equpment'must'be'carried'to'keep'group'warm'

Commitment'of'pull'thru'trip''

•! Leader'to'consider'size'and'ability'of'group.'•! The'2'pitches'of'middle'entrance'can'be'free'climbed'

with'care'•! If'there'is'doubt,'leave'rigged'and'member'of'staff'to'

exit'cave'to'deRrig'Water'levels''' '

•! Water'levels'present'a'signifcant'risk'to'the'group'as'the'pull'through'commits'to'the'watercourse.'Leader'can'rig'from'Chapterhouse'traverse'to'avoid'high'


water'levels.'•! Leader'to'understand'the'limit'of'the'group'and'

severity'of'high'water'on'a'roped'decent.'•! Seek'local'advice'if'necessary'

!Cave! Details! Ratio! Leader!Qual!Kingsdale!Master!Cave!(Valley!Entrance)!SO009909'

Nearest'farm'–'Braida'Garth'No'Signal'

1:8'Max'Group'Size'10''

LCL'2''

Additional!Site!Specific!Hazards!/!Risks' Planned!Control!Water'levels'in'the'master'cave''

•! Leader'to'undrstand'the'effects'of'rain'on'the'cave'and'the'history'/'forecast'of'any'rainfall.''

•! Seek'local'advice'if'necessary'

!Cave! Details! Ratio! Leader!Qual!Bull!Pot!of!the!Witches''SO009909'

Emergencey'phone'at'Bull'Pot'Farm'No'Signal'


LCL'2'''

Additional!Site!Specific!Hazards!/!Risks' Planned!Control!Water'levels'in'the'master'cave''

•! Leader'to'undrstand'the'effects'of'rain'on'the'cave'and'the'history'/'forecast'of'any'rainfall.'

•! Seek'local'advice'if'necessary'Exposed'entrance'traverse''

•! Leader'to'rig'traverse'/'life'line'for'group'and'all'members'of'the'group'sohuld'be'able'to'use'a'cowstails'system'to'keep'them'safe'at'all'times'

!!!!

!YORKSHIRE!DALES!(cont’d)!Cave! Details! Ratio! Leader!Qual!Alum!Pot!/!Long!Churn'SO009909'

Nearest'farm'/'dwellings'in'hamlet'of'Sellside.'Pay'for'groups'Signal'unknown'

1:6''Max'Group'Size'8'Plus'competent'assistant'1:10'Max'Group'Sixe'12'(For'Churns'Only)'

CIC'(LCL'1'for'churns'only)''



•! If'group'are'getting'wet'then'this'needs'to'be'considered'for'the'walk'back'to'the'parking'

Cold'and'wet''

•! Group'should'be'equipped'for'a'wet'and'cold'trip.''•! Additional'clothing'and'equpment'must'be'carried'to'

keep'group'warm'Water'levels'in'churns'and'into'Alum'Pot' •! Leader'to'undrstand'the'effects'of'rain'on'the'cave'


and'the'history'/'forecast'of'any'rainfall.'•! Seek'local'advice'if'necessary'

Committed'trip'along'bridge'and'pitches'of'Alum'/'Dolly'tubs'route'

•! Leader'to'consider'size'and'ability'of'group''•! Leader'to'be'experienced'and'knowledgable'and'able'

to'make'a'judegment'on'the'suitablity'of'a'trip'down'the'Alum'Pot'!

Cave! Details! Ratio! Leader!Qual!Sell!Gill!Hole!!(Fossil!Route)'SO009909'

Nearest'farm'/'dwellings'in'hamlet'of'New'Houses.'Signal'unknown'

1:6'Max'Group'Size'8'Plus'competent'assistant'

LCL'2''



Committed'trip'with'long'pitches''

•! Leader'to'consider'size'and'ability'of'group''•! Leader'to'be'experienced'and'knowledgable'and'able'

to'make'a'judegment'on'the'suitablity'of'a'trip'down'Sell'Gill'!!!!

''''!!!

!

Combined)Water)and)Rock)NOP)EAP)RA)Latest)version)05.16)!


Combined'Water'and'Rock'Activities:'Gorge'Walking'and'Coasteering''

To)be)used)in)conjunction)with)generic)normal)operating)procedures,)emergency)action)procedures)and)risk)management)statements)for)all/any)type)of)visit,)activity)or)trip.))Although)there)is)no)NGB)for)the)activities)common)best)practice)in)associated)activity)(e.g.)caving,)climbing,)paddlesport)etc.))should)be)followed.)The)National)Coasteering)Charter)have)formed)a)set)of)guidelines)which)links)safety)advice)for)providers)as)well)as)training)and)schemes)of)work)for)instructor)training.))More)information)can)be)found)at:)www.nationalcoasteeringcharter.org.uk)))Approved'technical'expert'for'Atlantic'Outdoors:'Tom'Partridge'(MIA/CIC/NWSMP'Tutor)''Choice)of)Site:))Instructors)are)to)choose)a)site/route)that)is)appropriate)to)the)limitations)of)the)person)/)group)and)prevailing)conditions.)The)physical)and)medical)conditions)of)the)students,)size)of)group)and)number)of)instructors)should)also)be)taken)into)account.)Consideration)should)also)be)given)to)other)groups)and)individuals)using)the)area,)particularly)during)busy)periods.)

Preparation:))-! It)is)essential)to)arrange)a)base)contact)that)is)understanding)of)the)procedure)for)initiating)a)rescue)

call)out)and)has)full)details)of)route)planned)and)group)details.)-! Ensure)group)are)suitably)equipped)for)the)route)planned)(both)physically)and)mentally))-! Obtain)an)accurate)weather)forecast)for)the)duration)of)the)journey)including)interpretation)of)

weather)history)and)the)effects)of)the)forecast)planned.))Activity)Session:))

"! Briefings)to)students)on)safety)and)fitting)of)equipment)Lead)instructors)have)the)ultimate)decision)on)what)protective)clothing)is)worn.)In)any)case)Helmets'must)be)worn)on)this)activity)and)BA’s)must)be)worn)when)operating)in)and)around)deep)water.)Equipment)such)as)wetsuits,)fury)bear)suits)and)‘splash)cags’)is)at)the)instructor’s)discretion)but)must)be)remembered)that)these)items)form)an)important)part)of)both)mental)protection)for)the)students)and)also)physical)protection)from)sprains,)strains)and)drowning)etc.)These)can)also)protect)the)individual)from)bangs)and)scrapes)along)the)journey.))Appropriate)footwear)is)deemed)as)wellies)or)sturdy)lace)up)style)shoes/boots)with)a)good)tread)and)in)good)condition)for)the)terrain.)))"! Brief)group)on)planned)route)and)ensure)they)understand)any)emergency)action)plan)"! Check)group)are)carrying)correct)equipment)for)venue)/)route)"! Check)timing)and)notify)appropriate)person)if)group)is)to)be)overdue)"! Ongoing)monitoring)and)observation)of)group)during)the)activity)"! Buoyancy)aids)(and)helmets))must)be)worn)at)all)times)in)and)around)deep)water)"! Work)within)any)access)agreements,)code)of)conduct)or)signed)concordats)for)sites)used)

!


"! Safety)Briefings)must)include:))

Introduction)to)the)activity,)expectations,)readiness)etc.))

Jumping)technique)When%a%student%jumps%into%water%he/she%must%be%jump%taking%only%one)step.%Running%jumps%are%not%acceptable.%Suitable%use%of%various%heights%must%be%employed%to%develop%the%student’s%confidence,%skill%and%technique.%Students%should%be%encouraged%to%land%with%their%legs%together,%legs%slightly%bent%and%a%straight%back.%Arms%may%be%crossed%over%the%chest%for%support%and%to%avoid%a%‘slapping’%of%the%arms%and%hands.))Swimming)in)moving)water)Students%should%be%informed%of%the%dangers%of%entrapment%and%also%briefed%on%the%use%of%a%throw%rope.%Students%must%have%the%option%to%request%for%this%option%in%these%situations.%%)Use)of)spotting)on)steep)sections)Students%must%be%informed%of%a%correct%technique%of%spotting.%Instructors%must%supervise%spotting%when%there%is%risk%of%student%falling%into%shallow%water%or%rocky%areas.%It%is%important%that%when%spotting%students%are%paired%off%in%equal%sizes,%if%this%is%not%possible%then%instructor%or%assistant%must%supervise%or%take%over.))Use)of)a)throw)rope)(including)a)demonstration))

)Movement)over)wet)and)or)rocky)ground)Students%must%be%informed%of%methods%and%techniques%for%movement%over%such%terrain.%Students%should%be%encouraged%to%move%slowly%and%carefully%using%hands%and%feet%for%balance%plus%rocks%and%hand%holds%to%encourage%them%not%to%slip%over.%Students%must%only%use%other%members%of%the%team%in%a%controlled%and%monitored%way%so%as%that%other%members%of%the%group%are%not%forced%to%the%ground%unnecessarily%)Environmental)Considerations)(stings,)bites,)protection)of)environment))

)Briefing)to)students)on)dangers)of)specific)site)(e.g.)rocks,)shallow)water,)currents,)waves))

)Emergency)procedure)and)use)of)STOP)/)Command)signals))It)is)essential)that)all)participants)understand)the)safety)briefing)prior)to)the)activity)commencing))End)of)Session:))-! Sign)off)from)their)base)contact))

!)))))))

!



Combined'Water'and'Rock'Activities:'Gorge'Walking'and'Coasteering')Emergency)Action:))Leaders)must)have)a)statement)of)competence)(which)would)include)an)assessment))verified)by)a)technical)advisor)/)expert.)This)process)would)include)an)assessed)element)of)dealing)with)typical)activity)specific)emergency)scenarios.)Leaders)should)use)appropriate)technical)and)leadership)skills)to)deal)with)any)given)situation.)In)addition,)it)is)suggested)that)leaders)have)a)minimum)rescue)competence)of)NWSMP)level)3)or)NBLQ)qualification.))As'a'minimum'instructors'are'to'have'ready'access'to:')-! Suitable)first)aid)equipment)(for)whole)group))-! Medical)/)personal)information)of)group)(including)total)number)and)names,)medication)etc.))-! Emergency)kit)suitable)for)site)and)prevailing)conditions)(e.g.)group)shelter,)access)to)minibus,)hot)

drinks,)map,)compass)etc.))-! Communication)suitable)for)the)location)(e.g.)Mobile,)VHF))-! Emergency)kit)suitable)for)dealing)with)emergencies))-! Relevant)technical)equipment)for)dealing)with)the)quick)and)effective)extraction)of)a)casualty)from)the)

environment.)-! Floating)line)/)throw)line)-! Goggles)/)mask)for)investigating)pools)/)underwater)obstacles)-! It)is)suggested)that)for)areas)that)are)more)exposed)or)have)long)swims)fins)and/or)flares)should)be)

carried))

Additional)info:))

Guidance)notes)from)MR)/)SWOAPG)event)detailing)the)common)issues)and)considerations)when)working)with)rescue)services.)These)are)relevant)to)both)a)river)and)coastal)environment))

Mountain'Rescue'in'the'Gorge')These)notes)follow)a)SWOAPG)workshop)with)Central)Beacons)MR)at)their)Dowlais)Base,)run)by)deputy)team)leaders)Dave)Cross)and)Huw)Jones)in)May)2016.))The)principles)here)are)all)discussed)in)a)gorge)environment,)but)are)equally)as)relevant)to)any)outdoor)emergency)situation.))'Background'to'MR')There)are)four)Mountain)Rescue)teams)in)South)Wales;)Brecon,)Longtown)(Black)Mountains),)Central)and)Western,)as)well)as)a)Cave)Rescue)team)covering)the)whole)of)South)and)Mid)Wales.))When)called)out)a)team)may)respond)on)their)own,)with)a)neighboring)team)or)with)members)of)all)teams)in)the)region.))''''

!


How'to'Call'out'Mountain'Rescue'')Dial)999'or)112'and)ask)for)POLICE,)then)Mountain'Rescue.))Try)to)call)even)if)you)have)no)signal,)as)emergency'calls'can)be)made)on)any'network.)))You)should)be)transferred)to)Powys)Police,)but)if)calling)from)a)mobile)phone)you)may)end)up)with)South)Wales)or)Gwent,)depending)on)how)the)network)connects)you.)The)operator)may)not)have)any)knowledge)of)the)area)you)are)in,)so)be)prepared)to)explain)things)well,)including)spellings.)They)will)then)contact)the)MR)team)via)their)pagers,)the)team)will)muster,)collect)equipment)and)travel)to)the)scene.)))If)you)ask)for)an)ambulance)instead,)you)will)not)get)MR,)and)you)will)delay)getting)the)appropriate)support.)The)police)will)be)able)to)coordinate)MR)as)well)as)ambulances)and)any)air)or)other)support)you)may)require.)))What'information'to'give'''The)more)information)you)can)give)to)the)operator,)the)better)informed)your)incoming)rescue)team)will)be.))•)Where)you)are.)Grid)Reference,)fall)names,)marker)post)number.))•)Side)of)river.)Left)or)Right?))•)Who)you)are.)Gorge)walking)group))•)What)has)happened.)Nature)of)incident,)number)of)people)involved,)suspected)injuries,)size)of)your)group))•)Weather)Conditions.)Including)water)levels))•)Your)phone)number.)So)that)you)can)be)contacted)for)addition)information.)))You)can)also)advise)on)the)best'access'route'in)to)the)casualty)or)a)rendezvous)point)to)guide)the)team)in.)We)know)the)gorge)better)than)anyone,)any)useful)information)we)pass)across)all)adds)up)to)a)more)efficient)rescue.)))Stay'with'your'comms'so)that)MR)can)ring)you)back)if)required.)The)more)information)you)can)give)them)the)better.))'Casualty'care'whilst'waiting'for'MR'))MR)are)volunteers)that)respond)to)a)police)request)for)assistance,)their)response)time)to)you)varies)due)to)team)member)commitments)like)work.)Weekend)and)evening)responses)are)likely)to)be)faster)than)middweek.)You)can)expect)to)manage)your)casualty)for)around)1)hour)following)your)emergency)call)before)a)MR)team)arrive)in)the)gorge.)))You)must)make)a)decision)based)on)your)qualification'and'training'on)whether)to)move'a'casualty,)but)it)is)likely)that)they)will)need)to)be)in)a)safe)area)where)they)can)be)treated.))If)the)injury)occurs)in)the)water)and)you)have)to)choose)a)side)to)move)the)casualty)to,)think)which)one)will)be)safest)to)wait)and)easiest)to)evacuate)from.))•!Basic)1st'aid'and)prevent'deterioration.))•!Make)casualty)as)comfortable'as)possible.))•!Keep)them)warm.)A)Kisu,)insulation)from)ground,)dry)hats,)gloves)and)layers)will)all)help)to)achieve)this.)))You)will)also)be)responsible)for)the)rest)of)the)group,)keep)them)warm)and)safe)whilst)managing)the)casualty.)Hypothermia)makes)both)1st)aid)and)rescue)more)difficult.))

!


When'MR'arrive'''MR'will'take'the'lead'on)the)rescue.)You)and)your)group)could)prove)a)valuable)asset)to)supporting)MR)and)rescuing)the)casualty,)or)you)may)be)moved)away)to)make)the)scene)more)manageable.)MR)are)more)likely)to)ask'for'our'help'now)then)they)have)before.)))MR)will)arrive)with)medical)kit,)1st)aid)as)standard,)or)if)you)have)given)the)right'information'to)the)police,)the)most)appropriate'kit'to)deal)with)your)casualty.)They)will)not)arrive)in)SRT)kit)unless)you)describe)a)situation)where)they)would)need)to)do)so.))MR)will)make)decisions)on)moving)the)casualty)and)evacuation,)either)on)land)or)by)air.)There)are)many)factors)effecting)this)decision.))'When'a'helicopter'arrives'))If)a)helicopter)is)called)to)the)incident)then)the)first)sign)will)be)it)buzzing)around)the)area,)evaluating)and)planning)escape)routes)etc.))As)the)helicopter)may)arrive)before)the)MR)team)(ETA)15d20mins),)you)must)be)ready)to)prepare)for)their)arrival.))•! Be'visible.'Use)a)bright)Kisu)or)stand)in)a)Y)shape)to)say)you)need)assistance.))•! Get'group'out'of'the'area.'For)their)safety.))•! Pack'away'all'kit.'Every)must)be)secure)or)poses)a)danger)to)you)and)the)aircraft.))•! Sit'on'bags.'It’s)going)to)be)rough!)))The)down'draft'from)the)new)helicopters)is)much)greater)than)the)old)Sea)Kings,)in)the)gorge)that)means)debris'from)the)trees)will)be)significant.)All)equipment)should)be)secured,)in)a)bag)or)on)a)person.))The)helicopter)may)decide)that)it’s)safer)to)drop)the)Winchman)away)from)the)site)and)they)will)walk)to)you.)))On)arrival)the)Winchman'will'take'control'of'the'scene.)This)may)involve)just)clipping)the)stretcher)to)the)line)and)going.)))As)the)new)aircraft)are)also)smaller,)there)is)less)room)for)passengers)to)accompany)the)casualty.)You)can)ask)the)Winchman)which)hospital'they)are)heading)to,)but)if)in)doubt)you)can)call)the)police)(101))who)are)coordinating)the)incident.)))There)are)places)in)the)gorge)where)the)new)helicopter)has)landed)and)places)where)it)has)winched.)Reports)so)far)are)that)it)is)just)as)functional)as)the)Sea)Kings,)with)a)faster)response)time.)

'''''''''''

!


ACTIVTY'SPECIFIC'RISK'ASSESSMENT''

Combined'Water'and'Rock'Activities:'Gorge'Walking'and'Coasteering')Assessed)by:)Tom)Partridge) ) ) ) ) ) ) )))))))))Date)Last)Assessed:)See)Footer))List'of'hazards'and/or'risks'arising'from'activities)

Control'measures'in'place'to'reduce'risk'of'hazard)

Arrangements'to'ensure'the'control'measures'continue'to'be'effectively'implemented)

Stream)in)spate,)rough)water,)repeated)submersion)in)water)(Drowning,)group)separation)))Interference)from)other)water)users)(Group)separation,)distraction)))Effects)of)cold)water)and)cold)or)hot)weather)))Sprains)and)strains,)bumps)and)bruises)through)activity)))Illness)through)water)borne)infections)))Entrapment)))))Risk)of)drowning)))Risk)of)injury)to)the)head)from)collision)or)water)features))Falling)or)slipping)on)wet)rocks))))Loss)of)footwear))))Bouldering)/)Climbing))(fall)from)height))))))

Cancel)session,)change)activity))))Education)to)students,)stay)away)or)change)venue,)head)counts,)briefings)))Clear)group)briefings)and)suitable)clothing)to)be)worn)(e.g.)wet)suits))Instructor)to)monitor)group)and)cancel)session)if)appropriate)))Warm)up)and)down)before)and)after)session.)Staff)to)ensure)proper)protective)clothing)is)worn)(e.g.)wetsuits,)helmets)etc.)))Inform)students,)staff)on)what)to)look)out)for)and)inform)doctor)if)appropriate.)Cover)all)cuts)))Clear)safety)briefings)to)be)given.)Educate)group)on)situation.)Clean)line)and)snag)free)equipment))B.A.’s)(buoyancy)aids))to)be)worn)and)correctly)fitted)whilst)moving)on)or)around)deep)water)))Helmets)to)be)worn)and)correctly)fitted)whilst)moving)on)or)around)the)water)/)banks)/)cliffs))Group)to)be)given)correct)footwear)and)be)briefed)on)movement)over)terrain.)Helmets)must)also)be)worn))Footwear)to)be)secured)at)the)start)of)session)and)continually)checked)throughout)))Group)to)be)briefed)on)correct)techniques)for)spotting.)Instructors)to)assist.)Correct)use)of)spotters)and)assistant)staff.)Leader)to)be)trained)to)undertake)basic)life)/)hand)line)techniques)

Use)of)visual)and)set)markers.)Instructor)knowledge)and)continuing)training)See)Site)Information)Pack))Information)gained)from)other)water)users)))Leader)education))))Education)from)and)for)other)leaders,)awareness)of)handling)techniques)and)dangers))Education)from)tech)advisor.)Monitor)the)river)quality)through)environment)agency)river)grading/quality)flag.))Use)qualified)staff)for)the)type)of)water.)(e.g.)‘in)house’)assessed))))Continuing)best)practice)equipment)guidelines))Continuing)best)practice)equipment)guidelines))Continuing)‘in)house’)training)and)staff)development)))Continuing)‘in)house’)training)and)staff)development.)Consider)carrying)spare)footwear)if)needed))Continuing)‘in)house’)training)and)development)in)other)rope)/)rock)based)qualifications)(SPA,)LCL)Level)1)etc.))Recorded)inspection)(annual))of)any)manmade)structures)to)be)used)(2)bridge)traverses))

Continued)

!


Continued))List'of'hazards'and/or'risks'arising'from'activities)

Control'measures'in'place'to'reduce'risk'of'hazard)

Arrangements'to'ensure'the'control'measures'continue'to'be'effectively'implemented)

Jumping)into)water))))Group)becoming)separated,)cut)off)or)stranded)through)moving)water,)currents,)tides,)rising)water)levels'

Group)to)be)briefed)on)correct)techniques.)Instructors)to)assist)and)ensure)pools)are)deep)enough/safe)for)jumping)and)debris)free))Thorough)instructor)knowledge)of)site,)levels)and)cut)offs)agreed.)Ongoing)monitoring)of)group'

Continuing)‘in)house’)training.)Advice)from)other)users)and)technical)advisor)''Continuing)‘in)house’)training.)Advice)from)other)users)and)technical)advisor)''

)''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''

!

Combined)Water)and)Rock)NOP)EAP)RA)Latest)version)05.16)

!

SITE'AND'ACTIVITY'SPECIFIC'RISK'ASSESSMENT'

'

Gorge'Walking'

Dinas'Rock'–'Sychryd'Gorge'and'Lower'Mellte'(Loonies'Leap'to'Confluence)'

'

IT)IS)ESSENTIAL)THAT)ALL)USERS)AND)LEADERS)ADHERE)TO)THE)“CODE)OF)CONDUCT”)AND)ALSO)THE)TERMS)

AND)CONDITIONS)OF)THE)“CONCORDACT”)WITH)NATURAL)RESOURECES)WALES.)THIS)ENABLES)LEAGAL)RIGHT)

OF)WAY)FOR)GORGE)WALKING)IN)THE)AREA.)

This)included)–)Access)Rules,)Access)Paths)and)Routes)and)General)Behaviour)and)Conduct)in)the)area.)

For)more)information)please)visit:)www.swoapg.org.uk)

Ratio:'1:10'(with'competent'assistant)'

•! At'present'there'are'issues'with'the'private'land'owners'on'the'river'left'(southern)'side'of'the'

Sychryd'Gorge.'Please'avoid'using'the'private'land'for'activity'and'keep'group,'where'possible'on'

the'agreed'land'on'the'NRW'side'of'the'river'

'

•! There'are'a'significant'number'of'tress'in'the'gorge.'The'river'is'an'ever'changing'dynamic'

environment'and'leaders'should'be'aware'that'new'trees'may'obstruct'paths'and'challenges'on'the'

routes.'Any'pool'or'jump'should'be'check'prior'to'leading'the'group'to'ensure'that'they'are'free'

from'debris'and'safe'for'use'

'

•! The'Mellte'and'Sychryd'rise'and'fall'independently'and'in'different'ways'following'and'during'

rainfall.'Leaders'should'be'aware'of'the'effects'of'the'rain'in'the'area'and'obtain'a'weather'report'

for'the'day'of'session'and'be'aware'of'how'rain'may'effect'the'day.'If'the'river'is'high'cancel'session.'

Leaders'to'identify'safe'working'limits'of'the'river'and'agree'with'the'Technical'Advisor.'

'

•! When'using'the'bridge'traverses'suitable'spotting'should'be'utilised'to'stop'any'fall'or'slip.'In'

addition,'the'structures'should'be'checked'annually'to'ensure'that'they'are'safe'for'use.'These'were'

checked'on'1st'July'2013'by'Tom'Partridge,'Technical'Advisor.'

'

•! The'mines'and'the'caves'at'Bwa'Mean'should'not'be'entered'at'any'time.'

'

•! When'climbing'up'to'the'top'gorge'leaders'should'be'aware'that'once'you'commit'to'the'top'gorge'

you'are'limiting'your'options'for'safe'and'fast'retreat'in'the'event'of'an'incident.'Leaders'should'be'

confident'that'groups'are'suitable'to'the'activities'planned'and'mentally'and'physically'capable.'If'in'

doubt'cancel'or'change.'

'

•! The'approved'route'up'the'main'falls'is'to'follow'the'main'line'of'the'falls'via'rocky'climbs'and'

scrambles'and'not'via'the'lean'to'block'on'river'left.'

'

•! If'needed,'a'life'line'or'hand'line'can'but'used'to'assist'the'safe'set'up'of'groups'reaching'the'top'of'

the'main'falls'but'in'most'cases'this'could'also'be'achieved'by'careful'and'suitable'spotters'in'correct'

locations.'

!


'

•! Do'not'loiter'or'linger'under'the'main'over'hang'in'the'upper'gorge'due'to'falling'rocks'/'climbing'equipment.''

'

•! The'step'around'the'gully'above'ivy'pool'should'be'well'spotted'and'if'needed'a'hand'line'could'be'set'up'using'the'bolts'in'situ.'

'

•! Leader'to'asses'the'suitability'of'a'shallow'water'entry'to'ivy'pool'as'depth'and'current'may'dictate'an'alternative'route.'In'any'case'exit'from'beyond'ivy'pool'is'either'via'Roots'Climb'or'back'to'the'main'track'near'the'main'overhang.'

'

•! The'Roots'Climb'should'be'monitored'and'spotted'appropriately'to'ensure'that'debris'does'not'fall'down'on'other'group'members.'Also,'group'should'be'supervised'on'the'top'of'the'climb'to'avoid'them'falling'on'steep'edges'or'back'along'the'path'near'the'step'over'the'gully'above'ivy'pool.'

'

•! The'path'to'descend'to'the'top'pool'should'be'used'safely'giving'sensible'distance'between'participants'to'ensure'that'debris'does'not'fall'on'other'participants.'

'

•! Group'to'be'kept'under'close'control'around'deep'pools'to'avoid'being'washed'off'or'entering'water'and'getting'into'difficulty'un'supervised.'

'

•! Group'to'be'given'suitable'briefing'on'how'to'climb'and'crawl'under'waterfall'prior'to'jumping.'Leader'to'make'the'decision'on'the'best'position'of'leader'to'help'deal'with'the'jumping'of'participants'and'the'safe'recovery'of'any'participants'who'may'be'in'trouble'in'the'water.'

'

•! Leader'to'be'able'to'undertake'a'rescue'of'a'conscious'and'unconscious'casualty'in'the'water'and'pools'found'in'the'gorge'environment.'

'

•! Leader'to'have'safe'working'limits'in'pool'–'use'of'undercut'rock'is'a'good'marker.'Leader'should'not'jump'groups'in'at'this'location'if'the'limit'of'the'water'exceeds'this'point.'

'

•! Return'paths'should'be'treated'with'care'and'leaders'should'ensure'that'protective'equipment'remains'appropriately'secured'until'it'is'deemed'safe'to'remove'by'the'leader.'

'

•! Group'should'be'kept'under'close'control'on'paths'and'routes'(to'loonies'or'return)'as'there'are'a'range'of'hazards'and'dangers'on'the'paths'of'the'area.'

'

•! Group'to'have'equipment're_checked'before'jumping'in'at'loonies'leap'(helmets,'BA’s'etc.)''

•! Leader'to'ensure'that'the'group'are'fully'briefed'and'suitable'for'the'challenge.''

!


•! The'safe'exit'from'the'loonies'pool'is'via'the'rock'wall'on'river'left'and'the'climb'up'the'step'to'the'path'should'be'spotted.'In'addition,'the'path'on'river'right'from'the'middle'of'the'pool'provides'access/egress.'

'

•! Leader'to'be'clear'on'safe'limit'of'the'water'at'the'Mellte'as'this'may'have'risen'/'dropped'during'a'session'in'the'Sychryd.'

'

This)list)is)not)exhaustive)and)if)additions)or)changes)need)to)be)made)please)report)back)to)the)Technical)Advisor)for)further)clarification.)In)any)case,)any)incident)or)accident)in)the)Gorge)MUST)be)reported)to)the)Technical)Advisor)and)this)may)or)may)not)impact)the)risk)assessment,)information)and)operating)procedures)for)this)activity.))

')))))))))))))))))))

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Sychryd'and'Mellte'River'Markers'(Safe'Working'Limits)'

Safe'Working'Limit'Lower'MELLTE:'

'

Concrete)ledge)marks)‘cut)off’)for)high)water)on)the)Mellte.)Example)of)high)water)below)–)Cancel)Session.)

HIGH'WATER'MARKERS'MELLTE:'

)

NB'MELLTE'AND'SYCHRYD'RISE'INDEPENDANTLY'AND'RESPOND'DIFFERENTLY'IN'TIMES'OF'WET'WEATHER.'IF'IN'DOUBT'CANCEL'OR'CHANGE'VENUE.'THE'RIVER'AT'LOONIES'MAY'HAVE'RISEN'DURING'THE'TIME'

TAKEN'TO'REACH'IT'FOLLOWING'A'SESSION'IN'THE'SYCHRYD'

!


!

Safe'Working'Limit'SYCHRYD:'Lower)Gorge:)

)

)

)

The)rock)shown)by)the)arrow)is)a)clear)indication)of)a)high)or)low)water)level.)If)this)rock)is)not)showing)due)to)

water)flow)then)the)river)is)too)high)for)gorge)walking)–)Cancel)or)Change)Session.)

Climb)to)Upper)Gorge:)

'

Above:)This)is)the)boulderdchoked)fall)at)the)‘Point)of)no)Return’)in)low)water.)Once)the)arrowed)rock)ledge)is)

covered)then)gorge)may)be)too)high.)Cancel)or)change)session)See)below.)

!


!

HIGH'WATER'MARKERS'SYCHRYD:'

)

Above:)This)is)the)boulderdchoked)fall)in)HIGH)WATER.)The)water)flow)here)is)very)powerful)and)clearly)a)

major)hazard)to)group)users.)

)

Upper)Gorge:)

)

)

)

In)the)top)pool)there)is)an)undercut)prow)of)rock)that)overhangs)into)the)pool,)shown)by)the)arrow.)If)the)

water)is)covering)this)rock)and)there)is)no)overhang)then)the)river)may)be)too)high)and)the)pool)is)for)jumping)

/)activity)on)River)Left.)If)pool)is)near)the)water)marker,)then)a)jump)from)River)Right)may)be)more)suitable.)

)

)

)

)

)

!


Loonies)Leap))

)))At)loonies)leap,)on)the)dam)wall)there)are)a)set)of)steps)leading)down)to)the)water.)The)top)block)is)a)large)block)with)a)white)patch.)As)you)follow)down)the)steps)there)is)a)final)step)(shown)by)the)arrow))which)also)has)white)patches)on)it.)If)this)step)is)covered)by)water,)then)the)pool)is)too)high)and)should)not)be)used)for)jumping)/)activity.))Although'markers'and'water'level'indicators'are'set'there'may'be'times'when'the'group'may'not'be'suitable'or'their'ability'may'not'be'right'for'the'conditions.'In'these'cases,'leaders'should'adapt'and/or'change/cancel'the'session.''Water'markers'may'move'or'change'and'these'can'be'reviewed'with'the'technical'advisor')!!!

!!!!)))))))

!

Games,'Problem'Solving,'Bushcraft'and'Initiative'Excersises'NOP'EAP'RA'Latest'version'05.16'

!


Games,'Problem'Solving,'Bushcraft'and'Initiative'Excersises''

To'be'used'in'conjunction'with'generic'normal'operating'procedures,'emergency'action'procedures'and'risk'

management'statements'for'all/any'type'of'visit,'activity'or'trip.'

'

Choice'of'Site:'

'

Instructors'are'to'choose'a'site'that'is'appropriate'to'the'limitations'of'the'person'/'group'and'prevailing'

conditions.'The'physical'and'medical'conditions'of'the'students,'size'of'group'and'number'of'instructors'

should'also'be'taken'into'account.'Consideration'should'also'be'given'to'other'groups'and'individuals'using'

the'area,'particularly'during'busy'periods.'

Preparation:'

'

-! It'is'essential'to'arrange'a'base'contact'that'is'understanding'of'the'procedure'for'initiating'a'rescue'

call'out'and'has'full'details'of'route'planned'and'group'details.'

-! Ensure'group'are'suitably'equipped'for'the'activity'planned'(both'physically'and'mentally)'

-! Obtain'an'accurate'weather'forecast'for'the'duration'of'the'activity'including'interpretation'of'

weather'history'and'the'effects'of'the'forecast'planned.'

-! Consider'the'NOP'and'Risk'Assessments'for'other'activities'that'work'in'conjunction'with'such'activity'

(e.g.'hill'walking,'orienteering'etc.)'

'

Activity'Session:'

'

"! Briefings'to'students'on'safety'and'fitting'of'equipment'

"! Brief'group'on'planned'route'and'ensure'they'understand'any'emergency'action'plan'

"! Check'group'are'carrying'correct'equipment'for'the'planned'activity'/'games'

"! Check'timing'and'notify'appropriate'person'if'group'is'to'be'overdue'

"! Ensure'group'stays'together'and/or'have'a'suitable'plan'if'groups'are'split'/'remotely'managed'

"! Ongoing'monitoring'and'observation'of'group'during'activity'

'

End'of'Session:'

'

-! Sign'off'from'their'base'contact''

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Emergency'Action:'

'

Leaders'should'either'hold'a'range'of'recognised'NGB’s'for'the'activity'or'have'a'statement'of'competence'

(which'would'include'an'assessment)'verified'by'the'DOL.'In'either'case,'part'of'this'process'would'include'an'

assessed'element'of'dealing'with'typical'activity'specific'emergency'scenarios.'Leaders'should'use'appropriate'

technical'and'leadership'skills'to'deal'with'any'given'situation.'

'

As'a'minimum'instructors'are'to'have'ready'access'to:''

-! Suitable'first'aid'equipment'(for'whole'group)'

-! Medical'/'personal'information'of'group'(including'total'number'and'names,'medication'etc.)'

-! Emergency'kit'suitable'for'site'and'prevailing'conditions'(e.g.'group'shelter,'access'to'minibus,'hot'

drinks,'map,'compass'etc.)'

-! Emergency'kit'suitable'for'dealing'with'emergencies''

'''''''''''''''''''''''''''''

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!



Assessed'by:'Tom'Partridge' '''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''Date'of'Latest'Assessment:'See'Footer'

'

List'of'hazards'arising'from'activities'

Control'measures'in'place'to'reduce'risk'of'hazard'

Arrangements'to'ensure'the'control'measures'continue'to'be'effectively'implemented'

Poor'/'severe'weather'

conditions'resulting'in'loss'of'

way,'possible'benightment'

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'

'

Effects'of'heat'or'ColdW'

•! Dehydration'

•! Sunburn'/'heat'stroke'

•! Hypothermia'

'

'

Traffic,'other'venue'users'and'

site'hazards'(toilets,'

boundaries'etc)'

'

'

'

'

'

Sprains'and'Strains,'slips'and'

Falls'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Impact'with'objects'(such'as'

sticks,'floor,'equipment)'

'

Obtain'current'and'forecast'

weather,'correct'safety'equipment'

to'be'carried'at'all'times'and'any'

specialist'gear'given'and'worn'

correctly'(wellies,'helmets'etc)'

Groups'to'be'effectively'supervised'

(assistants'to'accompany'groups,'

remote'supervision'etc)'

'

Be'aware'of'the'symptoms'and'be'

prepared'to'deal'with'situation.'

Carry'suitable'emergency'supplies'

for'conditions.'(e.g.'cold'water,'hot'

drinks,'warm'clothes'etc.)''

'

Leader'to'be'familiar'with'venues'

and'give'clear'briefing'to'group.'

Have'meeting'points'that'are'easily'

identified'and'set'up'games'well'

away'from'busy'roads,'car'parks'or'

use'methods'to'ensure'safety'

(bollards,'assistants'etc)'

'

Group'to'be'properly'equipped'for'

the'locations'and'activity,'close'

supervision'of'manual'handling'and'

the'areas'to'be'used'to'ensure'that'

there'are'no'present'dangers'(tree'

roots,'sharp'objects'etc)'Helmets'to'

be'worn'for'activities'where'there'

is'a'risk'of'falling'from'heights'

and/or'collision'or'injury'to'head'

'

Activity'and'tasks'to'be'suitable'for'

the'group'and'area'to'be'checked'

for'any'potential'hazards.'If'there'is'

a'risk'of'falling'from'height'then'

helmets'should'be'worn'as'well'as'

appropriate'spotting'techniques'

used'

Ensure'an'appropriate'qualified'leader'is'in'

place'for'the'venue'planned'(e.g.'Summer'ML'

or'BEL'etc.)'Leader'to'familiar'of'area.'DOL'to'

check'venues'when'necessary'

'

'

'

'

'

All'instructors'to'be'first'aid'trained'or'have'

access'to'a'first'aider'and'also'hold'the'

appropriate'qualification'for'the'proposed'

venue/locations'(e.g.'Summer'ML'or'BEL'etc.)'

'

'

Ensure'an'appropriate'qualified'leader'is'in'

place'for'the'venue'planned'(e.g.'Summer'ML'

or'BEL'etc.)'Leader'to'familiar'of'area.'DOL'to'

check'venues'when'necessary'

'

'

'

'

Venues'and'locations'to'be'checked'by'DOL.'

Continuing'education'and'development'of'

staff'to'ensure'correct'decision'making'

process'and'route/area'choice'for'group''

'

'

'

'

'

'

Venues'and'locations'to'be'checked'by'DOL.'

Continuing'education'and'development'of'

staff'to'ensure'correct'decision'making'

process'and'route/area'choice'for'group''

'

!

Games,'Problem'Solving,'Bushcraft'and'Initiative'Excersises'NOP'EAP'RA'Latest'version'05.16'!

'Use'of'rope'/'entanglement''''''''Fires'''''''Hygiene'and'handling'items'''

'Leader'to'ensure'games'do'not'involved'rope'being'tied'or'secured'to'people'and'any'rigging'or'set'ups'are'clearly'visible'to'the'group.'Knife'may'be'carried'if'there'is'a'snag'hazard'/'using'fine'lines/wires'that'may'become'tangled.''Fires'should'be'lit'in'accordance'with'the'general'guidance'for'lighting'/'managing'fires.'Burns'first'aid'kit'should'be'present'as'should'a'method'of'putting'out'fire'quickly'and'safely''Group'briefed,'hands'washed'and'it'is'suggested'that'gloves'are'worn'for'any'manual'and'hands'on'work.'

'Suitable'games'and'use'of'equipment'through'ongoing'training'and'maintenance'of'approved'games'/'resource'list''''''Regular'updates'to'the'protocols'for'fire'lighting'and'management'of'fire''''''Staff'to'ensure'group'are'following'procedures'and'washing'hands'after'session'/'cuts'covered'etc.'

'

!

Hill$Walking$and$Mountaineering$(inc$Campcraft)$NOP$EAP$RA$Latest$version$05.16$!


Hill'Walking'and'Mountaineering'(inc'Campcraft)''

To$be$used$in$conjunction$with$generic$normal$operating$procedures,$emergency$action$procedures$and$risk$management$statements$for$all/any$type$of$visit,$activity$or$trip.$$Mountain$Training$is$the$National$Governing$Body$(NGB)$for$mountain$sports$in$Great$Britain.$MT$current$practices$and$recommendations$should$be$used$as$the$minimum$standard.$$More$information$can$be$found$at:$www.mountainQtraining.org$$Approved'technical'expert'for'Atlantic'Outdoors:'Tom'Partridge'(MIA)''Choice$of$Site:$$Instructors$are$to$choose$a$site$that$is$appropriate$to$the$limitations$of$the$person$/$group$and$prevailing$conditions.$The$physical$and$medical$conditions$of$the$students,$size$of$group$and$number$of$instructors$should$also$be$taken$into$account.$Consideration$should$also$be$given$to$other$groups$and$individuals$using$the$area,$particularly$during$busy$periods.$

Preparation:$$-! It$is$essential$to$arrange$a$base$contact$that$is$understanding$of$the$procedure$for$initiating$a$rescue$

call$out$and$has$full$details$of$route$planned$and$group$details.$-! Ensure$group$are$suitably$equipped$for$the$route$and$journey$planned$(both$physically$and$mentally)$-! Obtain$an$accurate$weather$forecast$for$the$duration$of$the$journey$including$interpretation$of$

weather$history$and$the$effects$of$the$forecast$planned.$$Activity$Session:$$"! Briefings$to$students$on$safety$and$fitting$of$equipment$"! Brief$group$on$planned$route$and$ensure$they$understand$any$emergency$action$plan$"! Check$group$are$carrying$correct$equipment$for$the$planned$route$"! Check$timing$and$notify$appropriate$person$if$group$is$to$be$overdue$"! Ensure$group$stays$together$and$alter$pace$as$required$"! Ongoing$monitoring$and$observation$of$group$during$jounrey$

$End$of$Session:$$-! Sign$off$from$their$base$contact$$

$$$$$$$$

!



Hill'Walking'and'Mountaineering'(inc'Campcraft)'$Additional$Guidelines$for$Choice$of$Route:$$Routes$can$be$determined$by$members$of$staff$based$on$the$following:$$

"! BEL$or$Lowland$Leader$terrain$routes$can$be$agreed$by$a$HML$/$WGL$"! HML$/$WGL$terrain$routes$can$be$agreed$by$a$Mountain$Leader$(summer)$"! All$other$routes$and$terrain$are$to$be$approved$by$the$technical$advisor$(DOL)$

$Each$route$submitted$for$approval$should$state:$"! Specific$hazards$and$their$control$measures$"! Trace,$marked$map$and/or$route$card$should$be$submitted$"! Identify$emergency$/$escape$routes$"! Indicate$ratio’s$and$staff$/$assistance$required$

$$


Hill'Walking'and'Mountaineering'(inc'Campcraft)'$Emergency$Action:$$Leaders$should$either$hold$the$recognised$NGB$for$the$activity$(e.g.$Mountain$Leader)$or$have$a$statement$of$competence$(which$would$include$an$assessment)$verified$by$a$technical$advisor$/$expert.$In$either$case,$part$of$this$process$would$include$an$assessed$element$of$dealing$with$typical$activity$specific$emergency$scenarios.$Leaders$should$use$appropriate$technical$and$leadership$skills$to$deal$with$any$given$situation.$$As'a'minimum'instructors'are'to'have'ready'access'to:'$-! Suitable$first$aid$equipment$(for$whole$group)$-! Medical$/$personal$information$of$group$(including$total$number$and$names,$medication$etc.)$-! Emergency$kit$suitable$for$site$and$prevailing$conditions$(e.g.$group$shelter,$access$to$minibus,$hot$

drinks,$map,$compass$etc.)$-! Emergency$kit$suitable$for$dealing$with$emergencies$$

''''''''''

!



Hill'Walking'and'Mountaineering'$Assessed$by:$Tom$Partridge$ $ $ $ $ $$$ $$$$$$$$$$Date$of$Latest$Assessment:$See$Footer$$List'of'hazards'arising'from'activities$

Control'measures'in'place'to'reduce'risk'of'hazard$

Arrangements'to'ensure'the'control'measures'continue'to'be'effectively'implemented$

Poor$/$severe$weather$conditions$resulting$in$loss$of$way,$possible$benightment$$$$Effects$of$heat$or$ColdQ$•! Dehydration$•! Sunburn$/$heat$stroke$•! Hypothermia$$$$Rock$Fall$$$River$Crossings$$$$$$Steep$Ground$/$Cliff$Edges$$$$$$$$$Sprains$and$Strains$

Obtain$current$and$forecast$weather,$correct$safety$equipment$to$be$carried$at$all$times$$$Be$aware$of$the$symptoms$and$be$prepared$to$deal$with$situation.$Carry$suitable$emergency$supplies$for$conditions.$(e.g.$cold$water,$hot$drinks,$warm$clothes$etc.)$$$Avoid$prone$areas$at$all$time,$where$helmets$if$required$$Avoid$crossing$streams$and$rivers$unless$there$is$no$accessible$bridge$or$path.$Areas$to$be$avoided$if$not$in$scope$of$the$qualification$held.$$$Group$to$kept$safe$on$any$steep$ground.$Areas$to$be$avoided$if$not$in$scope$of$the$qualification$held.$In$some$cases$specific$equipment$should$be$carried$to$help$solve$any$problems$encountered.$(eg.$Rope,$sling$etc)$$Group$to$wear$correct$footwear$for$activity$and$route$planned.$Also$group$to$be$briefed$on$movement$through$rough$ground$

Ensure$an$appropriate$qualified$leader$is$in$place$for$the$route$planned$(e.g.$Summer$ML$or$BEL$etc.)$Leader$to$familiar$of$route.$DOL$to$check$route$when$necessary$$All$instructors$to$be$first$aid$qualified$and$also$hold$the$appropriate$qualification$for$the$proposed$route$(e.g.$Summer$ML$or$BEL$etc.)$$$$Ongoing$checks$of$prone$areas$and$relaying$of$information$back$to$DOL$$Routes$to$be$checked$by$DOL$where$necessary$$$$$Routes$to$be$checked$by$DOL.$Continuing$education$and$development$of$staff$to$ensure$correct$decision$making$process$and$route/area$choice$for$group$$$$$Stores$must$contain$correct$footwear$and$staff$to$be$trained$and$qualified$(e.g.$Summer$ML$or$BELA$etc.)$$$

$$$$'

!



Campcraft''

Assessed$by:$Tom$Partridge$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$Date:$01/01/2015$'

List'of'hazards'arising'from'activities$

Control'measures'in'place'to'reduce'risk'of'hazard$

Arrangements'to'ensure'the'control'measures'continue'to'be'effectively'implemented$

Risk$of$Interference$from$other$users$$$$Risk$of$injury$from$in$proper$use$of$the$camping$equipment$(i.e.$poles,$pegs$and$lines)$$$$Use$of$stoves$$$$Risk$of$Fire$and$use$of$camp$fire$$$$$$$Sleeping$arrangements$and$remote$supervision$at$night$

Staff$to$ensure$that$group$are$briefed$on$safety$and$behaviour$issues.$Campsite$or$venue$to$be$preQchecked$for$suitability$prior$to$stay.$$Staff$to$supervise$use$of$equipment$and$ensure$correct$use.$Pegs$may$need$to$be$correctly$placed$by$staff$to$ensure$that$they$do$not$protrude.$Care$must$be$taken$when$erecting$poles$and$also$placing$guy$lines$$Group$to$be$supervised$and$briefed$on$use$of$stoves$at$all$times.$Consideration$needs$to$be$given$to$the$type$of$fuel$used.$$$Where$fires$are$permitted$on$sites$/$venues$they$are$to$be$supervised$at$all$times.$Any$fuels$or$lighters$must$remain$in$control$of$the$instructor$at$ALL$TIMES.$Stoves$are$NOT$to$be$used$in$the$tents$and$any$fires$/$bbq’s$and$cooking$must$be$a$min.$of$2m$away$from$any$of$the$tents.$$Staff$to$monitor$and$brief$group$prior$to$the$sleeping$time$to$prepare$group.$Staff$to$ensure$that$group$are$safe$and$are$asleep$before$they$do$the$same.$Staff$may$wish$to$arrange$the$tents$in$such$a$way$to$keep$certain$people$and$sexes$apart$on$site$and$provide$a$better$level$of$supervision.$Group$to$be$familiar$with$site$or$venue$so$that$they$do$not$get$lost$at$night$times.$

PreQvisits$and$education.$Communication$with$camp$site/venue$owners$$$Knowledge$of$camping$craft$and$continuing$training$and$education.$Staff$to$be$BEL$min.$qualified$$$$$Knowledge$of$camping$craft$and$continuing$training$and$education.$Staff$to$be$BEL$min.$qualified$$Knowledge$of$camping$craft$and$continuing$training$and$education.$Staff$to$be$BEL$min.$qualified$$$$$$Prior$knowledge$of$group$and$briefings$to$the$group.$Knowledge$of$camping$craft$and$continuing$training$and$education.$Staff$to$be$BEL$min.$qualified$

'!

!

Inland&Kayaking&and&Canoeing&NOP&EAP&RA&Latest&version&05.16&!


Inland'Kayaking'and'Canoeing''

To&be&used&in&conjunction&with&generic&normal&operating&procedures,&emergency&action&procedures&and&risk&management&statements&for&all/any&type&of&visit,&activity&or&trip.&&The&British&Canoe&Union&is&the&National&Governing&Body&(NGB)&for&kayaking&and&canoeing&in&Great&Britain.&BCU&current&practices&and&recommendations&should&be&used&as&the&minimum&standard.&&More&information&can&be&found&at:&www.bcu.org.uk&&Approved'technical'expert'for'Atlantic'Outdoors:'Tom'Partridge'/'Simon'Neenan'(IK/OC'Level'4)'&Choice&of&Site:&&Instructors&are&to&choose&a&site&that&is&appropriate&to&the&limitations&of&the&person&/&group&and&prevailing&conditions.&The&physical&and&medical&conditions&of&the&students,&size&of&group&and&number&of&instructors&should&also&be&taken&into&account.&Consideration&should&also&be&given&to&other&groups&and&individuals&using&the&area,&particularly&during&busy&periods.&

Preparation:&&-! It&is&essential&to&arrange&a&base&contact&that&is&understanding&of&the&procedure&for&initiating&a&rescue&

call&out&and&has&full&details&of&route&planned&and&group&details.&-! Ensure&group&are&suitably&equipped&for&the&activity&planned&(both&physically&and&mentally)&-! Obtain&an&accurate&weather&forecast&for&the&duration&of&the&activity&including&interpretation&of&

weather&history&and&the&effects&of&the&forecast&planned.&&-! Leader&to&have&sufficient&information&regarding&any&weak&or&nonUswimmers&

&Activity&Session:&&

"! Briefings&to&students&on&safety&and&fitting&of&equipment&"! Brief&group&on&any&capsize&drill&or&specific&safety&info&and&ensure&they&understand&any&emergency&

action&plan&"! Ensure&‘Clean&Line’&principle&and&keep&any&snag&hazards&to&a&minimum&"! Check&group&are&carrying&correct&equipment&for&the&planned&activity&"! Check&timing&and&notify&appropriate&person&if&group&is&to&be&overdue&"! Ongoing&monitoring&and&observation&of&group&during&activity&

&End&of&Session:&&-! Sign&off&from&their&base&contact&&

&&&&&&

!



Inland'Kayaking'and'Canoeing'&Emergency&Action:&&Leaders&should&either&hold&a&recognised&NGB&for&the&activity&(UKCC&or&BCU&level&2/3)&or&have&a&statement&of&competence&(which&would&include&an&assessment)&verified&by&the&DOL.&In&either&case,&part&of&this&process&would&include&an&assessed&element&of&dealing&with&typical&activity&specific&emergency&scenarios.&Leaders&should&use&appropriate&technical&and&leadership&skills&to&deal&with&any&given&situation.&&As'a'minimum'instructors'are'to'have'ready'access'to:'&-! Suitable&first&aid&equipment&(for&whole&group)&-! Medical&/&personal&information&of&group&(including&total&number&and&names,&medication&etc.)&-! Emergency&kit&suitable&for&site&and&prevailing&conditions&(e.g.&group&shelter,&access&to&minibus,&hot&

drinks,&map,&compass&etc.)&-! Emergency&kit&suitable&for&dealing&with&emergencies&&

'''''''''''''''''''''''''''''

!



Inland'Kayaking'and'Canoeing'&Assessed&by:&Tom&Partridge,&Simon&Nennan& & & & &&&&&&&&&&&Date&of&Latest&Assessment:&See&Footer&&List'of'hazards'arising'from'activities&

Control'measures'in'place'to'reduce'risk'of'hazard&

Arrangements'to'ensure'the'control'measures'continue'to'be'effectively'implemented&

Harm&to&persons&whilst&loading,&unloading&trailer&and&or&roof&rack&including&traffic&&Interference&from&other&water&users&&&Effects&of&cold&water&and&cold&or&hot&weather&&&&Sprains&and&strains&through&activity&&&&Illness&through&water&borne&infections&&&Entrapment&of&swimmers&or&craft&&&&Risk&of&drowning&&&&Risk&of&injury&to&the&head&from&collision&or&river&features&

Education&prior&and&during&activity&and&ensure&a&good&practice&of&manual&handling&&Education&to&participants,&stay&away&or&change&venue&&&Clear&group&briefings&and&suitable&clothing&to&be&worn&(e.g.&wet&suits)&Instructor&to&monitor&group&and&cancel&session&if&appropriate&&&Brief&students&on&correct&entry&and&exit&techniques,&including&handling&and&carrying&etc.&Warm&up&and&down&before&and&after&session&&Inform&students,&staff&on&what&to&look&out&for&and&inform&doctor&if&appropriate.&Cover&all&cuts&&Clear&safety&briefings&to&be&given.&Educate&group&on&situation.&Equipment&to&be&checked&as&well&as&participants&for&any&snag&hazards&&B.A.’s&(buoyancy&aids)&to&be&worn&and&correctly&fitted&whilst&moving&on&or&around&the&water&/&banks&&Helmets&to&be&worn&and&correctly&fitted&whilst&moving&on&or&around&the&water&/&banks.&&

Education&from&and&for&other&coaches,&awareness&of&handling&techniques&and&dangers&&Periodic&checks&by&DOL.&Information&gained&from&other&water&users&&&Coach&education&&&&&Education&from&and&for&other&coaches,&awareness&of&handling&techniques&and&dangers&&&Education&from&DOL.&Monitor&the&river&quality&through&environment&agency&river&grading.&&&&Use&qualified&staff&for&the&type&of&water.&(e.g.&level&3&coach&for&moving&water)&&&&Periodic&checks&by&DOL&&&&Periodic&checks&by&DOL&

''''''

!

Inland&Kayaking&and&Canoeing&NOP&EAP&RA&Latest&version&05.16&

!

'SITE'SPECIFIC'RISK'ASSESSMENT'

'Open'Canoeing'

Wye'Valley'River/Venue' Details' Ratio' Leader'Qual'Wye' Kern&Bridge&to&Biblins&(see&map)& 1:24&(plus&min&1&water&and&

canoe&competent&staff)&Plus&1&

additional&staff&(3&staff)&

BCU&level&3&canoe&coach&

–Plus&5star&trg&(min)&

Additional'Site'Specific'Hazards'/'Risks& Planned'Control'River!in!spate& •! TP/SN!to!make!decision!on!day!regarding!river!levels&

Overhanging!branches/banks& •! Group!to!be!kept!clear!of!hazards!–!briefed!and!well!led/managed!by!river!leader&

Rapids! •! Clear!briefing!given!ahead!of!rapids!being!run!and!group!to!understand!the!line!and!signals!to!be!used&

Flat!Sections!•! Leader!may!decide!to!remove!helmets!on!long!flat!sections!of!water!but!

must!be!worn!if!there!are!any!games!or!risk!of!collision!through!activity!/!poor!paddling!skills&

Remote!sections!/!raising!help!

•! Leader!to!be!familiar!with!venue!and!be!clear!on!where!the!nearest!point!of!help!may!be!found!(e.g.!house,!phones,!public!road)!

•! Decision!must!be!made!as!to!whether!the!group!continue!or!evacuate!in!the!event!of!an!emergency!on!the!river!(leader!to!make!final!decision!based!on!skill!and!competence!of!supporting!staff)!

Head!wind!/!tiredness! •! Leader!to!be!able!to!manage!group!and!trim!boats!accordingly!Loss!of!equipment!/!failure! •! Leader!to!carry!spare!paddles!and!basic!canoe!repair!items!

'

''

!


'South'Wales'River/Venue' Details' Ratio' Leader'Qual'Cosmeston'Lakes' & 1:12& BCU&level&2&canoe&coach&

/&UKCC&Level&2&Paddlesport&

Additional'Site'Specific'Hazards'/'Risks& Planned'Control'

Environmental!–!wildlife!and!other!related!hazards&

•! Leader!to!keep!clear!of!any!wildlife!/!do!not!agitate&•! Aware!of!slip!hazard!from!excrement&•! Boats!to!be!washed!before!and!after!session!in!line!with!user!

agreement&Other!users& •! Site!is!busy!and!ensure!there!is!no!conflict!of!interest!caused&Varying!depth!and!water!temperature! •! Group!properly!equipped!and!leader!aware&

'Inland'Kayaking'

'Atlantic'College'River/Venue' Details' Ratio' Leader'Qual'Outdoor'/'Indoor'Pool' & 1:12& UKCC&L1&Additional'Site'Specific'Hazards'/'Risks& Planned'Control'Slipping!on!side!of!pool!(wet!surfaces)& •! Verbal!warning!of!pool!rules,!appropriate!supervision.&Vehicles!/!Access!to!pool& •! Verbal!warning,!appropriate!supervision.&

Sharp!edges!on!boats!/!pool!side!

•! Verbal!warning!as!to!danger.!!Wetsuits,!shoes!and!helmets!worn!

for!protection.!Regular!inspection!by!staff!of!pool!side!

environment!and!equipment.&

Paddles!–!sharp!edges!/!misuse!of!equipment!•! Verbal!warning!as!to!danger.!!Wetsuits,!BA’s!and!helmets!worn!

for!protection.&'

INDOOR POOL INTERIM OPERATING PROCEDURE: 07/2015 (TP V1)

THIS POOL IS NOT SUPERVISED AND USE OF THE FACILITY IS FOR COLLEGE STAFF (and

supervised guests) OR FOR THOSE WHO HAVE PRIOR PERMISSION.

Location: UWC Atlantic College (Indoor Pool), Seafront Area CF61 1WF

Maximum capacity: 40 persons at any one time

1) Prior to use:

a) Have signed in (using the provided log book) b) Switched facility lights on c) Users must check the pool and surrounding area for any signs of damage or any reasons why

swimming should not commence. Any damages or issues must be reported (see section 5) d) All users should be familiar with the pool and its layout, noting the highlighted risks and hazards in

the risk assessment and be aware of the lack of supervision in the pool. Users should ensure that they have a basic understanding of pool safety, have read the rules and ensured that any required rescue aids (appropriate to use) are present, in good working order and the user is familiar with how they are to be used in the event of an emergency / rescue.

e) There must be a minimum of 3 people within the pool and/or in very close proximity to the pool side at all times who are competent swimmers and can meet the criteria of point 1d.

f) At least 2 pool users MUST be a competent swimming adult over the age of 18 years old g) If you are unsatisfied that the pool is not suitable for your activity and/or is unsafe please DO NOT

USE the pool. Seek further advice and if possible, alert other users as soon as possible. Report your concerns as per section 5

Note: a competent swimmer is considered to be someone who can swim for 25m (unaided) and tread water for 2 minutes.

2) Supervision:

The following should be taken into consideration when users are taking children and/or non-swimmers into the pool.

a) Children UNDER the age of 4 require 1:1 supervision (1 child to 1 competent adult) b) Children UNDER the age of 8 require 2:1 supervision (2 children to 1 competent adult) c) Non-swimmers (of any age) should be supervised on a 1:1 ratio

Note: a competent swimmer is considered to be someone who can swim for 25m (unaided) and tread water for 2 minutes.

3) At the end of your session

a) Ensure the area and the pool is clean and clear of belongings and persons. b) Lock and close any doors (As appropriate) c) Sign out of the facility (using the provided log book) d) Switch the pool lights off e) Report any incidents, accidents or issues you may have (see section 5)

INDOOR POOL INTERIM OPERATING PROCEDURE: 07/2015 (TP V1)

4) In the Event of an Emergency:

a) Users should be familiar with how to call for help in the event of an emergency. A phone is

provided and clearly identifiable, with relevant information, in the pool hall.

b) Users should remember their basic water safety skills and ability when performing any rescue.

c) A first aid kit is provided and easily identifiable in the pool hall. If you use anything from the kit

please log this and inform the relevant persons (see section 4)

d) In the event of a fire, please evacuate through your nearest emergency exit (signs), raise the alarm

and/or dial (9)999 if you have not done so already and take with you the log book (sign in/out).

Your muster point is located at the castle end of the Outdoor Pool, in a safe location.

5) Reporting of incidents, accidents and any maintenance issues:

a) In the event of any incident or accident you must report this (in writing) to Tom Partridge and

Chris Dickons at the earliest opportunity

b) If you have any maintenance issues or requests, or the pool is not in a safe/usable condition

please do contact Tom Partridge, Chris Dickons, Nicola Watkins or Paul Dowling who will be able

to lock the pool externally to restrict access. Following this, a maintenance request form (As per

college guidelines) should be sent with the details and nature of the issues.

c) If you have used any of the first aid supplies please ensure these are replaced as soon as possible.

Stocks of first aid supplies can be obtained from the Barracks Office, Seafront Office or the

Medical Centre.

6) Summary of Specific Risks and Hazards

x The pool is clearly labelled with a deep and shallow end (including depth markers). The water itself

poses the biggest hazard to all users with the possible outcome being drowning.

x The shallow end is still of some depth and users should be aware of this, especially with weak/non

swimmers or younger children.

x The changing areas open onto the DEEP END of the swimming pool

x The rules are clear on general behaviour and horse play as these activities pose a risk to users. In

the event of a spinal injury users must remember the AIRWAY is the priority and care should be

given to the spine and head. Only use the specialised equipment if you have been trained to do so.

(Follow section 3)

x The freeboard on the pool is high and access /egress can be difficult, it is recommended that

access is made via the steps and the steps in the shallow end should be inserted securely (if these

are uses)

x The pool is often colder than to be expected due to the nature of the majority use, please do take

time to allow your body to get used to the temperature

x The pool hall can be noisy and also suffers from glare through the glass

x If the internal doors are open these need to be closely monitored for unauthorised access at all

times

x The eye bolts that secure the lane markers (deep and shallow end) have caused minor head

injuries and also finger / wrist injury.

!

Mountain(Biking(NOP(EAP(RA(Latest(Version(05.16(

!


Mountain'Biking''

To(be(used(in(conjunction(with(generic(normal(operating(procedures,(emergency(action(procedures(and(risk(

management(statements(for(all/any(type(of(visit,(activity(or(trip.(

(

Atlantic(Outdoors(regognises(CTC(as(a(National(Governing(Body((NGB)(for(mountain(biking(in(Great(Britain.(

CTC(current(practices(and(recommendations(should(be(used(as(the(minimum(standard.(There(are(also(other(

NGB’s(in(the(UK(that(represent(mountain(biking((such(as(British(Cycling)(

More(information(can(be(found(at:(www.mountainStraining.org(

(

Approved'technical'expert'for'Atlantic'Outdoors:'Simon'Neenan'(CTC'Trainer'/'Assessor)''Choice(of(Site:(

(

Instructors(are(to(choose(a(site(that(is(appropriate(to(the(limitations(of(the(person(/(group(and(prevailing(

conditions.(The(physical(and(medical(conditions(of(the(students,(size(of(group(and(number(of(instructors(

should(also(be(taken(into(account.(Consideration(should(also(be(given(to(other(groups(and(individuals(using(

the(area,(particularly(during(busy(periods.(

Preparation:(

(

-! It(is(essential(to(arrange(a(base(contact(that(is(understanding(of(the(procedure(for(initiating(a(rescue(

call(out(and(has(full(details(of(route(planned(and(group(details.(

-! Ensure(group(are(suitably(equipped(for(the(route(and(journey(planned((both(physically(and(mentally)(

-! Obtain(an(accurate(weather(forecast(for(the(duration(of(the(journey(including(interpretation(of(

weather(history(and(the(effects(of(the(forecast(planned.(

(

Activity(Session:(

(

"! Briefings(to(students(on(safety(and(fitting(of(equipment((e.g.(‘M’(check)(

"! A(basic(skills(check(must(be(undertaken(prior(to(the(journey(commencing((use(of(brakes,(gears(etc.)(

"! Helmets(must(be(worn(at(all(times(whilst(riding(/(using(the(bike(

"! Gloves(must(be(worn(at(all(times(

"! Brief(group(on(planned(route(and(ensure(they(understand(any(emergency(action(plan(

"! Check(group(are(carrying(correct(equipment(for(the(planned(route(

"! Check(timing(and(notify(appropriate(person(if(group(is(to(be(overdue(

"! Ensure(group(stays(together(and(alter(pace(as(required(

"! Ongoing(monitoring(and(observation(of(group(during(journey(

(

End(of(Session:(

(

-! Sign(off(from(their(base(contact((

-! If(any(bike(is(found(to(be(faulty(or(damaged(then(in(addition(to(the(documented(recording(of(

information(the(leader(should(also(turn(the(saddle(on(the(bike(180degrees.(This(will(act(as(an(obvious(

visual(aid(and(prevent(further(use(

(

!

Mountain(Biking(NOP(EAP(RA(Latest(Version(05.16(!

(ACTIVTY'SPECIFIC'SAFETY'GUIDELINES','OPERATING'PROCEDURES'AND'EMERGECNY'ACTION'

'Mountain'Biking'

Additional(Guidelines(for(Choice(of(Route:((All(routes(must(be(agreed((in(advance)(by(the(technical(expert(and/or(the(DOL.((Each(route(submitted(for(approval(should(state:("! Specific(hazards(and(their(control(measures("! Trace,(marked(map(and/or(route(card(should(be(submitted("! Identify(emergency(/(escape(routes("! Indicate(ratio’s(and(staff(/(assistance(required(

(Where(possible,(staff(members(should(also(hold(relevant(walking(and(mountaineering(based(award(relevant(to(the(terrain(of(the(ride(and(its(location.((((Approved(stages(of(MTB(session(delivery((including(beginners(who(will(still(follow(stages(1S5):((1)'Introductory'information'session'-! Meet(and(greet(-! Info(about(biking(programme(-! Introduce(aims(and(objectives(

(2)'Kit'issue(-! Check(footwear(-! Issue(helmets(–(check(correct(size'-! Gloves'-! Size(the(group(from(big(to(small(

'3)'Group'Equipment'-! Fit(helmets(correctly((covering(forehead).(Helmets(must(be(worn(at(all(times(-! Gloves(–(fingerless(gloves(useful(to(avoid(grazed(hands(-! Shoes(–(must(be(closed(shoes(NOT(sandals(-! Trousers(if(worn(–(tucked(into(socks(/(elastic(to(stop(them(catching(in(chain(

(4)'Brief'safety'intro'before'groups'get'issued'bikes'-! Brakes(-! Gears(-! Safe(distances(

'5)'Issue'bikes'and'Bike'Choice'-! Tyre(pressures(set(high(–(30(–(35psi(depending(terrain((ie.(tyres(should(feel(hard)(-! Select(bike(size(small(enough(to(allow(rider(to(be(able(to(comfortably(touch(feet(on(ground(when(

saddle(atlowest(setting(-! For(novice(riders(bike(should(be(too(small(rather(than(too(big(–(less(chance(of(losing(control(/(falling(

over(

!


-! Group(adjust(height(of(seats((when(sitting(on(the(saddle(with(your(foot(on(the(peddle(at(it’s(lowest(point(there(should(be(a(slight(bend(in(your(leg)(

-! For(novice(riders(–(better(to(have(feet(flat(on(ground(rather(than(on(tiptoes(when(on(saddle(–(whatever(they(feel(comfortable(/(confident(with(

-! Use(the(ball(of(your(foot(on(the(pedal.(This(is(more(economical('6)'A'–'Z'of'bike'parts'Braking'-! Brakes.(Explain(which(is(front(and(rear.((-! Group(test(their(brakes.(Demo(what(will(happen(if(you(use(the(front(brake(ie(over(the(handle(bars(

(don’t(need(to(fall(over(the(handle(bars(for(the(demo!).(Also(what(happens(with(back(brake(only(–(you(skid.((

-! Always(use(the(brakes(simultaneously.(((-! Feathering(brakes(–(gentle(squeezing,(not(quick(“pumping”(of(brakes.(Imagine(you(are(slowing(down(in(

a(car(–(you(don’t(just(stop(and(throw(your(passengers(through(the(window!(It(is(gradual.((Gears'-! Gears.(Demonstrate(how(they(work(and(get(the(group(members(to(test(their(gears.(-! Focus(on(RHS(only(to(begin(with:(-! Push(with(thumb(=(EASIER((for(uphills)(-! Pull(with(finger(=(HARDER((for(speed(&(control(on(downhills)(-! Keep(LHS(on(middle(setting.(-! Explain(about(preSselecting(gears(before(an(uphill(section,(can(damage(gears(if(change(While(pedalling(

up(hill.(-! Anticipation(–(what(is(coming(next?((uphill,(downhill,(rocky(section?)(-! Choose(your(line(/(adjust(your(body(position(/(set(your(gears(-! Keep(pedalling!((bit(of(speed(helps(get(through(tricky(sections)(

(Skills'Check'Z'Follow'the'leader'-! A(fun(way(to(assess(ability(of(the(group(and(to(give(them(some(practice(at(controlling(the(bike(-! Brief(group(to(follow(instructor(–(NO(OVERTAKING!(-! Start(slow(cycling(in(circle(-! Build(up(skills(slowly(by(getting(group(to(copy(you,(e.g.(-! Raise(left(hand(/(right(hand(-! Stand(up(–(pedals(level(-! Gear(change(up(/(down(-! Front(wheel(lift(-! Bunny(hop(-! One(foot(off(–(push(bike(to(side(/(test(balance(-! Progress(–(riding(over(bumps(/(dips(/(up(&(down(slopes(

'7)'Journey'-! Facilitators(must(lead(first(waypoint(-! Allocate(leaders(on(sections(–(set(points(to(stop(at(e.g.(path(junctions,(houses.(-! Different(leaders(can(continue(the(“simon(says”(games(throughout(day,(allows(group(to(coach(each(

other(-! Ensure(food(and(fluids(are(carried#(

!


-! Review(along(journey(if(necessary(((Group'Management'-! Road(safety(brief:(group(in(single(file(behind(leader(cycling(on(the(side(of(the(road.(-! Allocate(leaders(/(give(roles(e.g(pacemaker,(group(coach,(terrain(scout(etc.(-! Maintain(discipline(–(simple(rules,(group(must(stick(together(within(sight(/(speaking(distance.(-! Helmets(at(all(times(or(you(don’t(ride!(

(Emergency(Action:((Leaders(should(either(hold(the(recognised(NGB(for(the(activity((e.g.(CTC(trail(leader)(or(have(a(statement(of(competence((which(would(include(an(assessment)(verified(by(a(technical(advisor(/(expert.(In(either(case,(part(of(this(process(would(include(an(assessed(element(of(dealing(with(typical(activity(specific(emergency(scenarios.(Leaders(should(use(appropriate(technical(and(leadership(skills(to(deal(with(any(given(situation.((As'a'minimum'instructors'are'to'have'ready'access'to:'(-! Suitable(first(aid(equipment((for(whole(group)(-! Medical(/(personal(information(of(group((including(total(number(and(names,(medication(etc.)(-! Emergency(kit(suitable(for(site(and(prevailing(conditions((e.g.(group(shelter,(access(to(minibus,(hot(

drinks,(map,(compass(etc.)(-! Emergency(kit(suitable(for(dealing(with(emergencies((-! Suitable(repair(and(maintenance(equipment(to(allow(trail(side(repairs((e.g.(tubes,(chain(links(etc.)(

''''''''

''

''''''''''''

'

!



Mountain'Biking'(Assessed(by:(Tom(Partridge(and(Simon(Neenan( ((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Date(of(Latest(Assessment:(See(Footer((List'of'hazards'arising'from'activities( Control'measures'in'place'to'reduce'

risk'of'hazard(Arrangements'to'ensure'the'control'measures'continue'to'be'effectively'implemented(

Vehicles(on(roads(and(in(car(parks(whilst(approaching(venue(((Interference(from(other(users(eg.(horses,(walkers(((Sprains(/(strains,(cuts(&(bruises(through(activity((((Injury(to(lower(legs((((Injury(to(hands(((Skidding(/(sliding(((Overheating(((((Collision(between(cyclists(((Injury(through(falling(on(steep(and/or(downhill(sections((((Injury(through(falling(on(rocky,(uneven(or(slippery(sections(((

Group(to(be(led(by(instructor(to(and(from(the(venue.((Group(to(be(briefed(on(traffic(safety((Group(to(be(kept(in(areas(away(from(other(users(and(briefed(on(keeping(to(the(side((Instructor(to(ensure(thorough(warm(up(and(down(techniques(and(brief(on(bike(control.(Group(to(wear(appropriate(safety(kit(ie.(helmet((Instructor(to(make(group(aware(of(correct(foot(stance(on(the(pedals,(consider(tying(up(trousers/sock(tuck((Gloves(to(be(made(available(to(protect(hands(in(a(fall((when(necessary)((Group(to(be(briefed(on(bike(handling(techniques,(particularly(braking(((Group(to(be(appropriately(clothed,(group(to(take(breaks(at(regular(intervals(and(each(student(to(carry(water.(Instructor(to(monitor.((Group(to(be(briefed(on(safe(riding(distances(to(be(maintained((Group(to(be(briefed(on(bike(handling(techniques,(particularly(safe(and(effective(braking,(safe(distances(and(bike(control((Group(to(be(briefed(on(off(road(bike(handling(techniques(and(firmer(control(

Assistant(instructor(to(assist((((Assistant(instructor(to(assist((((Education(from(and(for(other(instructors,(awareness(of(handling(techniques(and(dangers.(((Ensure(safety(brief(given(before(every(session(((Ensure(safety(brief(given(before(every(session((Ensure(safety(brief(given(before(every(session((Ensure(safety(brief(given(before(every(session((((Ensure(safety(brief(given(before(every(session((Ensure(safety(brief(given(before(every(session((((Ensure(safety(brief(given(before(every(session(and(reinforce(immediately(before(section/s(

!

!


ACTIVTY'SPECIFIC'SAFETY'GUIDELINES'Beginers'Mountain'Biking'

'Challenge'Camp'–'Wye'Valley'

'These(sessions(run(in(tandem(with(the(MTB(session.(Stages(1S5(should(already(have(been(covered(with(the(main(group.(During(this(time(the(MTB(instructors(will(identify(beginner(cyclists.(However,(some(cyclists(will(already(have(identified(themselves(as(beginners,(and(may(need(a(separate(safety(briefing(and(kit(issue((stage(1S5(is(still(suitable)(((Location'The(teaching(must(take(place(within(the(campsite(area(of(Biblins(and(should(not(leave(the(site.(Choose(your(teaching(area(considering(the(suitability(of:((-! Terrain(-! Any(traffic(or(other(groups(-! Noise(/(distractions(-! Proximity(to(help/assistance(

(The(location(will(be(determined(by(the(ability(of(the(weakest(cyclists.((

'Stages'of'delivery'1)'Introductory'information'session'-! Meet(and(greet(-! Info(about(biking(programme(-! Introduce(aims(and(objectives(

(2)'Kit'issue(-! Check(footwear(-! Issue(helmets(–(check(correct(size'-! Gloves'-! Size(the(group(from(big(to(small(

'3)'Group'Equipment'-! Fit(helmets(correctly((covering(forehead).(Helmets(must(be(worn(at(all(times(-! Gloves(–(fingerless(gloves(useful(to(avoid(grazed(hands(-! Shoes(–(must(be(closed(shoes(NOT(sandals(-! Trousers(if(worn(–(tucked(into(socks(/(elastic(to(stop(them(catching(in(chain(

(4)'Brief'safety'intro'before'groups'get'issued'bikes'-! Brakes(-! Gears(-! Safe(distances(

'5)'Issue'bikes'and'Bike'Choice'-! Tyre(pressures(set(high(–(30(–(35psi(depending(terrain((ie.(tyres(should(feel(hard)(

!

Mountain(Biking(NOP(EAP(RA(Latest(Version(05.16(

!

-! Select(bike(size(small(enough(to(allow(rider(to(be(able(to(comfortably(touch(feet(on(ground(when(

saddle(at(lowest(setting(

-! For(novice(riders(bike(should(be(too(small(rather(than(too(big(–(less(chance(of(losing(control(/(falling(

over(

-! Group(adjust(height(of(seats((when(sitting(on(the(saddle(with(your(foot(on(the(peddle(at(it’s(lowest(

point(there(should(be(a(slight(bend(in(your(leg)(

-! For(novice(riders(–(better(to(have(feet(flat(on(ground(rather(than(on(tiptoes(when(on(saddle(–(

whatever(they(feel(comfortable(/(confident(with(

-! Use(the(ball(of(your(foot(on(the(pedal.(This(is(more(economical(

(

Progression(and(development:(

(

Balance'-! Using(a(small(amount(of(gradient(and(suitable(run(out,(allow(the(students(to(gather(a(small(amount(of(

momentum(and(improve(their(balance(on(the(bike,(seating(in(a(comfortable(and(stable(position.((

-! Monitor(speed(and(control(of(bike(

(

Braking'-! Once(balance(is(achieved(then(introduce(the(brakes,(be(mindful(of(beginner(cyclists(stopping(abruptly(

and(introduce(the(idea(of(gentle(and(controlled(breaking(to(avoid(a(sudden(stop(

-! Cyclists(should(come(to(a(stop(in(a(controlled(manor(and(end(with(feet(on(the(floor(

'Pedaling'to'gather'momentum'-! Use(either(a(small(gradient(or(gently(push(the(cyclist(along(to(achieve(balance,(then,(using(a(suitable(

gear(introduce(the(pedals(as(a(method(of(generating(forward(momentum.((

-! Be(clear(on(stopping(points(and(control(of(speed(

-! Progress(so(that(students(can(start(from(flat(unassisted(and(gather(momentum(to(ride(in(a(controlled(

way(on(the(flat(

(

Gears'-! Gradually(increase(and(decrease(effort(on(the(pedals(through(gear(changing.(This(will(allow(

participants(to(feel(for(changes(in(effort(and(select(suitable(gears(for(gaining(speed(and(also(climbing(

small(hills.(

-! Set(small(challenges(to(encourage(correct(gear(choice(for(a(range(of(hills(and(terrain(

(

Control'-! Set(a(small(slalom(or(set(course(to(encourage(confirmation(of(the(above(skills(

-! Increase(the(difficulty(and(distances(to(improve(and(develop(skills,(stamina(and(understanding(for(

cycle(techniques(

''

(

!

!

Orienteering(NOP(EAP(RA(Latest(Version(05.16(!


Orienteering''

To(be(used(in(conjunction(with(generic(normal(operating(procedures,(emergency(action(procedures(and(risk(management(statements(for(all/any(type(of(visit,(activity(or(trip.((British(Orienteering(is(the(National(Governing(Body((NGB)(for(orienteering(in(Great(Britain.(BO(current(practices(and(recommendations(should(be(used(as(the(minimum(standard.((More(information(can(be(found(at:(www.britishorienteering.org.uk((Choice(of(Site:((Instructors(are(to(choose(a(site(that(is(appropriate(to(the(limitations(of(the(person(/(group(and(prevailing(conditions.(The(physical(and(medical(conditions(of(the(students,(size(of(group(and(number(of(instructors(should(also(be(taken(into(account.(Consideration(should(also(be(given(to(other(groups(and(individuals(using(the(area,(particularly(during(busy(periods.(

Preparation:((-! It(is(essential(to(arrange(a(base(contact(that(is(understanding(of(the(procedure(for(initiating(a(rescue(

call(out(and(has(full(details(of(route(planned(and(group(details.(-! Instructor(to(satisfy(themselves(that(the(course(is(appropriate(and(safe(for(the(group.(-! Ensure(group(are(suitably(equipped(for(the(activity(planned((both(physically(and(mentally)(-! Obtain(an(accurate(weather(forecast(for(the(duration(of(the(journey(including(interpretation(of(

weather(history(and(the(effects(of(the(forecast(planned.(-! Consider(the(NOP(and(Risk(Assessments(for(other(activities(that(work(in(conjunction(with(such(activity(

(e.g.(hill(walking,(orienteering(etc.)(-! Course(should(be(checked(prior(to(a(session(so(that(markers(and(controls(are(able(to(be(found(

(Activity(Session:(("! Briefings(to(students(on(safety(and(fitting(of(equipment("! Brief(group(on(planned(route(and(ensure(they(understand(any(emergency(action(plan("! Check(group(are(carrying(correct(equipment(for(the(planned(activity("! Check(timing(and(notify(appropriate(person(if(group(is(to(be(overdue("! Ensure(group(stays(together(and/or(have(a(suitable(plan(if(groups(are(split(/(remotely(managed("! Ongoing(monitoring(and(observation(of(group(during(activity(

(End(of(Session:((-! Sign(off(from(their(base(contact((

((((((

!


(ACTIVTY'SPECIFIC'SAFETY'GUIDELINES','OPERATING'PROCEDURES'AND'EMERGECNY'ACTION'

'Orienteering'

(Emergency(Action:((Leaders(should(either(hold(a(recognised(NGB(for(the(activity((Teacher(/(Leader(award)(or(have(a(statement(of(competence((which(would(include(an(assessment)(verified(by(the(DOL.(In(either(case,(part(of(this(process(would(include(an(assessed(element(of(dealing(with(typical(activity(specific(emergency(scenarios.(Leaders(should(use(appropriate(technical(and(leadership(skills(to(deal(with(any(given(situation.((As'a'minimum'instructors'are'to'have'ready'access'to:'(-! Suitable(first(aid(equipment((for(whole(group)(-! Medical(/(personal(information(of(group((including(total(number(and(names,(medication(etc.)(-! Emergency(kit(suitable(for(site(and(prevailing(conditions((e.g.(group(shelter,(access(to(minibus,(hot(

drinks,(map,(compass(etc.)(-! Emergency(kit(suitable(for(dealing(with(emergencies((

''''''''''''''''''''''''''''

!


'ACTIVTY'SPECIFIC'RISK'ASSESSMENT'

'Orienteering'

(Assessed(by:(Tom(Partridge(and(Nick(Janvier(( ((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((Date(of(Latest(Assessment:(See(Footer((

List'of'hazards'arising'from'activities(

Control'measures'in'place'to'reduce'risk'of'hazard(

Arrangements'to'ensure'the'control'measures'continue'to'be'effectively'implemented(

Poor(/(severe(weather(conditions(resulting(in(loss(of(way,(possible(benightment(((((Effects(of(heat(or(ColdW(

•! Dehydration(•! Sunburn(/(heat(stroke(•! Hypothermia(

((Traffic,(other(venue(users(and(site(hazards((toilets,(boundaries(etc)((((((Sprains(and(Strains,(slips(and(Falls(((((Group(getting(lost(/(split(up(/(non(return(((((

Obtain(current(and(forecast(weather,(correct(safety(equipment(to(be(carried(at(all(times.(Groups(to(be(effectively(supervised((assistants(to(accompany(groups,(remote(supervision(etc)((Be(aware(of(the(symptoms(and(be(prepared(to(deal(with(situation.(Carry(suitable(emergency(supplies(for(conditions.((e.g.(cold(water,(hot(drinks,(warm(clothes(etc.)(((Leader(to(be(familiar(with(venues(and(give(clear(briefing(to(group.(Have(meeting(points(that(are(easily(identified(and(set(up(games(well(away(from(busy(roads,(car(parks(or(use(methods(to(ensure(safety((bollards,(assistants(etc)((Group(to(be(properly(equipped(for(the(locations(and(activity,(close(supervision(by(staff(and(knowledge(of(the(terrain(in(which(the(course(is(to(be(set((Group(to(be(briefed(on(action(if(they(are(lost(or(split(up.(Leaders(to(supervise(closely(and(manage(the(session(to(develop(skills((e.g.(through(star(course(or(walk(through(as(group)(

Ensure(an(appropriate(qualified(leader(is(in(place(for(the(venue(planned((e.g.(Summer(ML(or(BEL(etc.)(Leader(to(familiar(of(area.(DOL(to(check(venues(when(necessary((((All(instructors(to(be(first(aid(trained(or(have(access(to(a(first(aider(and(also(hold(the(appropriate(qualification(for(the(proposed(venue/locations((e.g.(Summer(ML(or(BEL(etc.)(((Ensure(an(appropriate(qualified(leader(is(in(place(for(the(venue(planned((e.g.(Summer(ML(or(BEL(etc.)(Leader(to(familiar(of(area.(DOL(to(check(venues(when(necessary(((((Venues(and(locations(to(be(checked(by(DOL.(Continuing(education(and(development(of(staff(to(ensure(correct(decision(making(process(and(route/area(choice(for(group((((Ongoing(monitoring(of(sessions(and(new(courses(checked(and(approved(by(DOL((

'''''''

!

Orienteering(NOP(EAP(RA(Latest(Version(05.16(

!

'

SITE'SPECIFIC'OPERATING'PROCEDURES,'EMERGECNEY'ACTION'PLAN'AND'RISK'ASSESSMENT'

'

Orienteering'

'

AC'Site'

'Location' Details' Ratio' Leader'Qual'

AC' Multi(Start(points.(Course(within(the(

boundary(of(college(walls(/(gates(

1:14( In(house(training(

Additional'Site'Specific'Hazards'/'Risks( Planned'Control'

Complex(gardens(and(grounds(

(

•! Clear(cut(off(times(

•! Use(of(star(course(and(fixed(instructor(location(

Slippery(steps(and(uneven(surfaces(

(

•! Briefed(not(to(race(

Roads( •! Breifed(and(road(crossings(may(need(supervising(if(traffic(is(

present(/(seen(as(a(hazard(on(the(day(

Exit(college(grounds(–(access(to(roads,(cliffs,(sea(

front(

•! Clear(breifings(

•! Buildi(up(navigation(techniques(

•! No(controls(outside(or(too(close(to(the(major(exits(of(college(

'

'

WYE'VALLEY'(CAMP2)'

'

Orienteering'briefing.'

-! Demonstrate(pacing(over(100m((twice,(then(average(reading).'

-! Instructor(to(hand(out(maps,(compasses,(controls(list(and(pen.(

-! Reading(map(scale(and(map(symbols((North,(contour(lines)(

-! Handrailing((explain(looking(at(the(map)(

-! Catching(features((reading(map(symbols(and(colour(coding)(

-! Taking(a(bearing((repeat(several(times)(

(

Safety'instructions'

-! Instructor(to(point(out(potential(dangers(on(the(course:(

-! Road(users(and(mountain(bikes(

-! Dogs(and(their(owners(

-! Verbal(warning(about(the(river:(not(to(attempt(to(cross(it(;(go(down(the(banks/swimming(;((and(verbal(

warning(about(fishermen(

-! Verbal(warning(about(crags(on(the(course.(How(to(identify(them.(Specific(instruction(is(given(not(to(

climb(them.(

-! Verbal(warning(not(to(climb(trees.(

-! What(to(do(if(you(get(lost:(retrace(steps(to(previous(control.(Instruction(to(aim(North(for(Wye(river,(

then(aim(for(bridge.(

-! Instructor(to(hand(out(whistles(and(explain(use.(Distress(signal(is(6(blasts(in(one(minute.(Rescuers(to(

acknowledge(with(3(blasts(per(minute.(

-! Instructor(to(hand(out(safety(bags(and(grouped(in(pairs((or(3’s).(

!


-! Instructor(to(make(sure(each(pair(has(a(watch.(Time(is(given(for(end(of(activity.(Cut(off(point(is(set(where(each(group(is(to(make(their(way(back(30(min(before(end(of(the(activity.(

(During'the'activity'-! Instructor(to(ensure(all(skills(are(taught(sequentially(-! Instructor(to(ensure(all(risk(are(supervised(-! Instructor(to(ensure(that(all(are(aware(of(cut(off(time(and(aware(of(procedures(-! Instructor(to(ensure(there(is(continual(monitoring(on(the(course(

(After'the'activity'-! Instructor(to(ensure(all(participants(and(staff(have(been(accounted(for(-! Instructor(to(be(aware(of(procedures(and(guidelines(if(someone(is(unaccounted(for((see(EAP)(-! Instructor(to(collect(equipment(back(

!In'case'of'one'or'several'groups'being'more'than'30'mins'late:'(-! Van(with(a(search(party(of(three((equipped(with(whistle)(to(go(to(Symonds(Yat(car(park(and(sweep(

search(area(down(to(the(river(-! One(group(with(a(search(party(of(three((equipped(with(whistle)(to(go(to(Wyedean(Canoe(Launch(point(

and(sweep(search(the(river(bank(area(-! One(staff(member(waiting(a(Biblins(bridge(-! Emergency(services(to(be(contacted(if(group(hasn’t(been(found(within(one(hour(of(the(search(being(

initiated.('Location' Details' Ratio' Leader'Qual'Biblins'/'Symonds'Yat'Woods'

Start(from(bridge(to/from(camp.(Emergency(vehicle(parked(on(both(sides(

1:14((min(2(staff)( Recognised(outdoor(leadership(award(plus(experience(

Additional'Site'Specific'Hazards'/'Risks( Planned'Control'More(complex(route(finding((

•! Route(is(checked(prior(to(use(•! Participants(are(given(a(training(period(of(theory(and(map(

reading(skills(prior(to(departing(Large(area(/(Getting(lost((

•! Group(are(given(a(watch(and(clear(cut(off(times(•! Participants(go(in(pairs(and(carry(a(small(emergency(bag((bivy(

bag,(whistle,(briefing(note)(•! Participants(briefed(to(remain(where(they(are(and(call(/(shout(

for(help(if(lost(•! Staff(to(‘sweep’(the(course(and(log(groups(in(/(out(•! The(course(/(area(is(also(shared(with(the(MTB(activity((during(

camp)(Some(rough(/(slippery(terrain( •! Group(given(clear(briefings(on(how(to(move(/(navigate(in(the(

terrain.((

'''''

''

!


'

''

STUDENT'BRIEFING'CARD'–'Challenge'Camp'Orienteering'Course''

• Return(to(the(camp(/(start(at(the(designated(time((

• Move(carefully(over(any(loose,(steep(and(slippery(terrain((

• Report(any(missing(or(damaged(controls(to(the(session(leader('In'the'event'of'an'emergecny:''Keep(calm,(assess(the(situation(and(ensure(you(are(in(a(safe(from(further(danger((If(injured(then(remain(as(a(pair(and(keep(warm(/(sheltered(in(the(bivy(bags('Raising'help:''Shout(and(signal(for(help(using(the(whistles(and(your(voice(–(emergency(whistle(signal(is(6(long(blasts(in(a(minute,(to(be(repeated(until(help(comes.(Rescuers(will(aknowledge(with(3(blasts(per(minute.('If'you'are'lost:''Do(not(try(and(find(us(–(we(will(find(you(–(whistle(and(shout(for(help(!

!

Rock%Climbing%and%Abseiling%NOP%EAP%RA%Latest%version%05.16%

!


Rock'Climbing'and'Abseiling''

To%be%used%in%conjunction%with%generic%normal%operating%procedures,%emergency%action%procedures%and%risk%

management%statements%for%all/any%type%of%visit,%activity%or%trip.%

%

Mountain%Training%is%the%National%Governing%Body%(NGB)%for%mountain%sports%in%Great%Britain.%MT%current%

practices%and%recommendations%should%be%used%as%the%minimum%standard.%%

More%information%can%be%found%at:%www.mountainOtraining.org%

%

Approved'technical'expert'for'Atlantic'Outdoors:'Tom'Partridge'(MIA)''Choice%of%Site:%

%

Instructors%are%to%choose%a%site%that%is%appropriate%to%the%limitations%of%the%person%/%group%and%prevailing%

conditions.%The%physical%and%medical%conditions%of%the%students,%size%of%group%and%number%of%instructors%

should%also%be%taken%into%account.%Consideration%should%also%be%given%to%other%groups%and%individuals%using%

the%area,%particularly%during%busy%periods.%

Preparation:%

%

-! It%is%essential%to%arrange%a%base%contact%that%is%understanding%of%the%procedure%for%initiating%a%rescue%

call%out%and%has%full%details%of%route%planned%and%group%details.%

-! Ensure%group%are%suitably%equipped%for%the%route%planned%(both%physically%and%mentally)%

-! Obtain%an%accurate%weather%forecast%for%the%duration%of%the%journey%including%interpretation%of%

weather%history%and%the%effects%of%the%forecast%planned.%

%

Activity%Session:%

%

"! Briefings%to%students%on%safety%and%fitting%of%equipment%

"! Brief%group%on%planned%route%and%ensure%they%understand%any%emergency%action%plan%

"! Check%group%are%carrying%correct%equipment%for%venue%/%route%

"! Check%timing%and%notify%appropriate%person%if%group%is%to%be%overdue%

"! Ongoing%monitoring%and%observation%of%group%during%the%activity%

%

End%of%Session:%

%

-! Sign%off%from%their%base%contact%%

%

%

%

%

%

%

%

%

%

!

Rock%Climbing%and%Abseiling%NOP%EAP%RA%Latest%version%05.16%!


Rock'Climbing'and'Abseiling'%Additional%Guidelines%for%Indoor%Climbing%Walls:%%All%instructors%must%adhere%to%the%operating%procedures%and%risk%assessments%for%climbing%and%abseiling%found%on%file%as%well%as%taking%into%the%following%considerations:%Where%possible%groups%should:%"! Be%using%suitable%graded%climbs%and%challenges%/%courses%to%encourage%development%and%achievement%"! Operate%in%small%groups%to%encourage%backing%up%belays%and%support%"! Be%respectful%and%cautious%whilst%moving%around%the%venue%(briefing%to%be%given%by%instructor)%"! Adhere%to%the%rules%of%the%venue%%"! Remove%Harnesses%whilst%using%the%bouldering%area%(if%necessary)%"! Whilst%bouldering%climbers%should%be%encouraged%to%choose%suitable%climbs%for%their%ability%and%

consider%how%the%problem%set%goes%up%the%wall.%%"! If%spotting%is%chosen%as%a%method%of%safeguarding%falls/bouldering%then%this%needs%to%be%effective%and%

supervised%by%instructors.%"! Climbers%should%be%encouraged%to%climb%down%the%boulder%problem%(if%possible)%before%jumping%onto%

the%mats.%The%jumping%should%be%controlled%and%practiced%before%attempting%boulder%problems%"! Instructors%may%decide%that’s%climbing%helmets%may%not%be%removed%for%certain%activities%in%a%venue,%in%

such%cases%the%instructor%needs%to%be%sure%that%there%is%no%risk%of%impact%or%collision%to%the%head%or%objects%falling%onto%the%head%or%group%from%above.%If%in%doubt%wear%helmets%and%consult%with%technical%advisor.%

"! Where%clipping%on%and%off%is%required%(in%the%case%of%high%ropes%courses)%this%must%be%done%under%direct%supervision%from%the%instructor%

"! Instructor%to%consider%the%use%of%full%body%harnesses%and/or%the%physical%limitation%/%strength%of%the%participants%against%the%suitability%of%the%activity.%

"! When%teaching%or%supervising%student%belaying%instructors%must%either%use%an%appropriate%back%up%belayer%and/or%directly%supervise/back%up%the%student.%

%Additional%Guidelines%for%Tidal%Crags:%%All%instructors%must%adhere%to%the%operating%procedures%and%risk%assessments%for%climbing%and%abseiling%found%on%file%as%well%as%taking%into%the%following%considerations:%"! Instructors%to%gain%a%detailed%overview%of%the%tidal%activity%and%sea%conditions%for%the%given%day%of%

activity%"! Groups%suitability%to%climbing/abseiling%on%tidal%venues%should%be%considered%to%minimise%the%risk%of%

participants%being%“cut%off”%at%the%crag%should%they%not%be%able%to%climb%a%route%"! Instructors%to%carry%appropriate%rescue%equipment%to%undertake%a%possible%rescue%from%a%tidal%crag,%

including%a%stuck%climber/group%and%retreat%from%the%venue%in%an%emergency%situation%"! Instructors%to%be%familiar%with%crag%and%how%the%tide%and/or%sea%conditions%may%effect%the%chosen%

area/venue%Suitable%and%locally%used%venues%may%include:%

"! Three%Cliffs%Bay%(Gower)%"! Box%Bay%(Porthcawl)%

%

!



Rock'Climbing'and'Abseiling'%Emergency%Action:%%Leaders%should%either%hold%the%recognised%NGB%for%the%activity%(e.g.%SPA)%or%have%a%statement%of%competence%(which%would%include%an%assessment)%verified%by%a%technical%advisor%/%expert.%In%either%case,%part%of%this%process%would%include%an%assessed%element%of%dealing%with%typical%activity%specific%emergency%scenarios.%Leaders%should%use%appropriate%technical%and%leadership%skills%to%deal%with%any%given%situation.%%As'a'minimum'instructors'are'to'have'ready'access'to:'%-! Suitable%first%aid%equipment%(for%whole%group)%-! Medical%/%personal%information%of%group%(including%total%number%and%names,%medication%etc.)%-! Emergency%kit%suitable%for%site%and%prevailing%conditions%(e.g.%group%shelter,%access%to%minibus,%hot%

drinks,%map,%compass%etc.)%-! Emergency%kit%suitable%for%dealing%with%emergencies%%-! Relevant%technical%equipment%for%dealing%with%a%stuck,%injured%or%stranded%climber%

''''''''''''''''''''''''''''

!


!


Rock'Climbing'and'Abseiling'%

Assessed%by:%Tom%Partridge% % % % % % %%%%%%%%%Date%of%Latest%Assessment:%See%Footer%

%

List'of'hazards'arising'from'activities%

Control'measures'in'place'to'reduce'risk'of'hazard%

Arrangements'to'ensure'the'control'measures'continue'to'be'effectively'implemented%

Risk%of%interference%from%other%

crag/wall%users%

%

Group%members%getting%lost%or%

split%up%whilst%approaching%venue%

or%activity%

%

Slipping%or%falling%on%areas%

around%the%venue%/%activity%(e.g.%

small%boulders,%other%cliffs)%

%

%

Failure%of%inOsitu%gear%placements%

%

%

Failure%of%placed%gear%placements%

%

%

Risk%of%falling%debris%%

%

%

Sprains%/%strains%through%activity%

%

%

%

Falling%/%loss%of%control%whilst%

being%lowered%

%

%

Risk%of%becoming%stuck%or%

entangled%whilst%climbing%/%

Abseiling%

%

%

%

Falling%and%landing%whilst%

bouldering%

Group%to%be%kept%in%areas%away%from%

other%users%

%

Group%to%be%led%by%instructor%to%and%from%

the%venue%

%

'Group%to%be%briefed%on%safety%within%the%

environment%and%a%‘zoning’%system%

should%be%used%to%identify%‘safe%areas’%or%

‘activity%areas’%

%

Instructor%to%check%gear%each%time%and%

back%up%if%possible%

%

Instructor%to%be%SPA%and%back%up%

placements%if%possible%

%

Helmets%to%be%worn%and%correctly%fitted%

%

%

Instructors%to%ensure%students%are%

correctly%warmed%up%and%down%before%

and%after%the%activity%

%

SPA%or%‘in%house%assessed’%instructor%only%

to%lower/supervise%belaying.%Students%

must%be%backed%up%and%under%supervision%

%

Instructor%to%carry%equipment%to%perform%

relevant%rescue%operation%to%free%student%

Systems%should%be%releasable%where%

possible%and%hair%/%clothing%(etc.)%tied%

back%and%kept%clear%

%

Spotters%should%be%present%(if%necessary)%

and%demonstrated.%Correct%landing%

techniques%should%be%coached%and%

demonstrated%

%

Assistant/%instructor%to%assist%

%

%

Assistant/%instructor%to%assist%

%

%

%

Assistant%instructor%to%assist.%

Education%on%venue%dangers%and%

‘zoning’%system%

%

%

Periodic%checks%by%DOL.%Consult%BMC%

officer%

%

Consultation%and%training%from%DOL%

%

%

Education%prior%to%activity.%Periodic%

checks%by%DOL.%Consult%BMC%officer%

%

Education%to%staff%to%ensure%it%forms%

an%important%part%of%the%session%

%

%

Consultation%and%training%from%DOL%

%

%

%

Instructor%to%be%SPA.%Consultation%

and%training%from%DOL%

%

%

%

%

Continuing%training%and%education%

%%%%

!


SITE'SPECIFIC'RISK'ASSESSMENT''

Rock'Climbing'and'Abseiling''

SOUTH'WALES'Crag' Details' Ratio' Leader'Qual'Dinas'Rock' Parking%can%be%an%issue%

Annual%Bolt%inspection%recorded%1:10% SPA%

Additional'Site'Specific'Hazards'/'Risks% Planned'Control'Busy%venue%%

•! Group%kept%under%close%supervision%and%briefed%on%what%to%do%if%split%up%from%group%

Fixed%Gear%%

•! Record%of%annual%inspection%as%well%as%a%manual%inspection%before%each%use%

%Crag' Details' Ratio' Leader'Qual'Box'Bay' Park%at%Rest%Bay%

%1:10% SPA%(plus%tidal%

endorsement)%Additional'Site'Specific'Hazards'/'Risks% Planned'Control'Sharp%rock%%

•! Leader%to%ensure%that%sharp%edges%are%protected%to%avoid%damage%to%equipment%

•! Group%to%be%briefed%on%nature%of%rock%and%try%to%minimise%contact%with%rock%(bare%skin)%especially%on%lower%half%of%crag%

Tidal%Range%%

•! Leader%to%understand%the%effect%of%the%tide%and%current%conditions%

•! Exit%routes%should%be%identified%in%advance%and%group%kept%safe%at%all%times%

%Crag' Details' Ratio' Leader'Qual'Morlais' Park%near%Viaduct%

Multiple%breakOins%/%thefts%1:10% SPA%%


•! Group%kept%under%close%supervision%and%briefed%on%what%to%do%if%split%up%from%group%

•! Helmets%to%be%worn%when%close%to%crag%due%to%loose%rocks%being%dislodged%by%other%groups%/%leaders%(and%‘public’)%

Fixed%Gear%%

•! Any%fixed%gear%used%must%be%backed%up%by%placed%protection%

Edges%and%drops% •! Brief%group%and%keep%safe%distance%from%any%edges%Route%up%to%abseil% •! Where%possible%escort%group%members%to%the%top%of%the%abseil%

wall%or%use%/%brief%a%suitable%assistant%person%(e.g.%other%staff)%Interference%from%public% •! Avoid%confrontation%and%monitor%situation%

•! If%in%doubt,%move%group%/%change%venue.%%Wall' Details' Ratio' Leader'Qual'Halo'Bridgend' Pay%to%park% 1:10% CWA%(min)%Additional'Site'Specific'Hazards'/'Risks% Planned'Control'Auto%Belayers%%

•! Leader%to%ensure%that%climbers%are%properly%attached%before%authorising%any%climbing%

Other%users%/%Busy%Venue%%

•! Group%to%be%kept%under%control%and%aware%of%where%climbers%are%at%all%times%

%'

!


WYE'VALLEY'Crag' Details' Ratio' Leader'Qual'Symonds'Yat' % 1:10%

(increase%of%ratio%for%abseil%only%as%part%of%camp%–%1:15%plus%2%competent%assistants)%

SPA%(unless%using%the%pinnacle%–%MIA/Site%Spec%Sign%off)%


•! Group%kept%under%close%supervision%and%leader%to%have%good%knowledge%of%crag%in%order%to%maximise%use%

Slippery%nature%of%rock%%

•! All%to%take%additional%care%after%wet%/%damp%weather%as%the%crag%becomes%very%slippery%

Limited%access%%%

•! Leader%to%know%all%of%the%access%points%and%supervise%group%(or%use%competent%assistance)%to%walk%group%to/from%parking%

Loose%rock%%%

•! All%to%wear%helmets%at%all%times%when%near%crag%(especially%at%bottom%of%face)%

Use%of%the%Pinnacle%is%under%guidance%from%the%technical%advisor%Access/approach% •! Leader%to%be%competent%to%lead%and%place%adequate%gear%to%

protect%themselves%•! Leader%to%be%belayed%by%a%competent%person%and%belayer%should%

be%anchored%appropriately%•! Group%to%be%carefully%managed%as%they%approach%the%start%of%the%

climb%(on%belay%/%security%line)%Stuck%climber%in%multi%pitch%setting% •! Leader%to%set%up%system%appropriately%to%escape%from%the%

system%to%perform%a%rescue%•! Consideration%should%be%given%to%climber%ability%•! Communication%must%be%clear%

Management%of%group%at%top% •! Leader%to%secure%participants%in%an%appropriate%way%and%consideration%must%be%given%to%the%number%of%participant%on%the%pinnacle%at%any%time%

•! Leader%to%be%competent%to%manage%the%activity%and%hold%the%relevant%qualitications%

Use%of%large%Abseil%as%part%of%Rock%N%Holl%Activity%(See%activity%briefing%notes)%Set%up% •! Leader%to%ensure%that%path%ways%are%kept%clear%when%abseil%is%

not%in%use%and%manage%carefully%•! Two%natural%anchors%to%be%used%for%group%decent%•! Leader%to%make%decision%on%suitability%of%retrievable%ab%/%if%in%

doubt%walk%around%after%deOrig%•! Rigging%to%be%checked%carefully%before%each%use%

Loose%rock% •! There%is%a%patch%near%the%bottom%of%the%ab%showing%signs%of%loose%rock%–%care%to%be%taken%and%monitored%

•! Those%abseiling%are%‘free%hanging’%and%minimum%contact%with%rock%is%needed%

•! Staff%and%group%at%bottom%to%be%well%managed%away%from%the%base%of%the%abseil%when%in%use%

Access% •! Access%is%made%by%a%longer%walk%around%in%a%SE%direction%from%the%abseil%(downstream)%although%abseil%access%in%an%emergency%will%be%quickest.%Staff%to%be%confident%in%rescue%procedure%

%%%%%%

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SITE'SPECIFIC'OPERATING'PROCEDURES,'EMERGECNEY'ACTION'PLAN'AND'RISK'ASSESSMENT'%

Climbing'and'High'Ropes'Course'AC''

Introduction:''Rock%climbing%walls%and%high%ropes%courses%are%defined%as%supervised%physical,%mental%and%emotional%%challenges%that%require%a%combination%of%teamwork%skills%and%individual%commitment.%%All%climbing%walls%and%high%ropes%courses%are%different,%but%certain%key%safety%and%practical%principles%apply%to%all.%The%following%normal%operating%procedure%is%designed%to%ensure%that%all%instructors%and%any%staff%delivering%rock%climbing%and/or%high%ropes%course%sessions%at%the%Atlantic%College%RCD%Linea%course%adopt%good%and%safe%working%practices%appropriate%to%the%elements%that%are%constructed%at%the%site%and%also%compliant%with%any%HSE%guidance%and%in%line%with%the%ERCA%UK%Ropes%Course%Guide%(3rd%Edition%2011)%'Qualifications:''All%instructors%leading%groups%on%the%climbing%wall%and/or%high%ropes%course%must%either%hold%the%‘Climbing%Wall%Award’%(CWA)%or%‘Single%Pitch%Award’%(SPA).%There%is%also%a%‘siteOspecific’%training%and%assessment%process%which%allows%a%clearly%defined%range%of%activity%and%supervision%of%elements%to%take%place%at%the%wall.%%'Ratios'(max):''Atlantic%Outdoors%operates%a%1:14%(max)%ratio%with%a%maximum%of%40%participants%in%the%compound%at%any%one%time%(this%does%not%include%instructors%or%supporting%staff),%however,%care%is%needed%when%using%specific%elements%in%close%proximity%to%each%other%(i.e.%the%trapeze%can%not%be%safely%run%at%the%same%time%as%the%crate%stack).%These%ratios%are%taking%into%account%instructors%operating%sessions%under%either%a%CWA%award%or%SPA%award%where%through%onOgoing%supervision,%coaching%and%teaching%can%evidence%the%ability%of%their%participants%to%play%an%active%role%in%the%functional%aspect%of%a%session%–%e.g.%belaying%and%tying%in%etc.%ERCA%standards%state%that%an%instructor%can%manage%no%more%than%a%maximum%of%4%persons%in%the%air%at%any%one%time%and%instructors%should%be%aware%of%the%issues%in%supervision%/%line%of%sight%due%to%the%physical%obstacles%and%restricted%access%created%by%the%wall%and%course.%%Where%an%instructor%holds%only%a%‘siteOspecific’%assessment%then%the%instructor%can%only%supervise%on%a%1:7%ratio%(max)%and%also%supervise%a%maximum%of%2%participants%in%the%air%(both%on%the%same%linear%side%of%the%wall)%at%any%one%time.%%The%use%of%additional%supporting%staff%and%assistants%should%play%an%important%part%in%the%supervising%of%a%group%and%where%there%is%any%doubt%regarding%the%control%or%supervision%of%a%group%due%to%lack%of%suitable%staff%then%the%session%MUST%be%stopped.%%Climbing'Wall'and'High'Ropes'Course'Inspection'and'Maintenance:''PreOUser%Check:%%%Prior%to%any%session%taking%place%a%‘PreOuse%Check’%must%be%undertaken%by%the%instructor.%The%visual%check%must%cover%the%items%listed%in%the%‘PreOuse%Check’%sheet.%In%some%cases,%after%severe%weather%or%period%of%less%use,%it%

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may%be%more%appropriate%for%a%more%detailed%check%of%the%facility%to%take%place,%this%may%require%the%skills%of%

an%authorised%instructor%as%they%may%require%additional%access%to%certain%elements%of%the%course.%Should%there%

be%any%concern%as%the%integrity%of%an%element%it%MUST%NOT%be%used,%an%out%of%use%label%attached%to%the%tracer%

cord%for%that%element,%the%relevant%log%completed%and%the%technical%advisor%informed.%%

%

Quarterly%Inspection:%

%

A%more%detailed%visual%inspection%of%the%facility%is%undertaken%by%a%designated%competent%person%on%a%more%

frequent%basis.%Should%there%be%any%concern%as%the%integrity%of%an%element%it%MUST%NOT%be%used,%an%out%of%use%

label%attached%to%the%tracer%cord%for%that%element,%the%relevant%log%completed%and%the%technical%advisor%

informed.%

%

During%an%inspection%of%this%nature%there%will%be%the%requirement%to%access%many%parts%of%the%structure%and%

this%will%require%the%use%of%specialist%PPE,%as%agreed%by%the%technical%advisor.%There%is%a%vertical%access%rope%and%

also%lanyard%system%which,%when%used%correctly,%allows%access%safely%to%all%required%aspects%of%the%structure.%

The%use%of%a%full%body%harness%and%dynamic%rope%‘cows%tails’%will%also%be%required%when%accessing%the%ladder%

and%any%access%devices.%

%

The%inspector%must%ensure%that%there%is%a%suitable%and%briefed%‘back%up%person’%within%the%compound%during%

the%inspection%so%that%in%the%event%of%the%inspector%getting%into%difficulty%an%emergency%call%can%be%made.%Any%

emergency%situation%involving%an%inspector%is%likely%to%require%the%assistance%of%a%rescue%team%and%may%

necessitate%a%999%call.%Any%emergency%service%attending%the%facility%should%be%alerted%to%the%fact%that%there%is%

limited%access%to%the%facility%for%vehicles%and%the%assistance%of%a%‘specialist’%rope%rescue%services%(and/or%

mountain/cave%rescue)%may%be%required%/%better%suited.%

%

The%technical%advisor%will%keep%a%record%of%the%designated%persons%who%are%deemed%competent%and%have%

received%relevant%training%and/or%evidenced%competence%to%undertake%the%monthly%inspections%and%the%

inspection%reports%will%be%periodically%reviewed%and%quality%assured%by%the%technical%advisor.%

%

Annual%Periodical%Type%C%Inspection:%

%

The%climbing%wall%and%high%ropes%course%at%AC%is%subject%to%an%annual%inspection,%as%per%ERCA%requirements,%

carried%out%by%an%independent%expert.%This%annual%report%will%contain%the%details%of%any%action%required%in%

terms%of%maintenance,%repair%or%facility%condition.%AO%will%arrange%for%the%inspection%to%take%place%and%a%copy%

of%the%report%will%be%submitted%to%the%technical%advisor%who%may%require%the%detail%to%amend%or%update%any%

part%of%this%manual%and%associated%documents.%

%

Instructor'Responsibility:''The%instructor%of%the%session%has%the%overall%responsibility%for%the%group%they%are%instructing.%This%will%include%

their%safety,%use%and%fitting%of%PPE,%conduct%and%behaviour.%If%an%instructor%is%unable%to%satisfy%these%elements%

then%there%is%a%clear%indication%that%the%session%should%stop.%There%are%a%range%of%factors%that%can%effect%the%

delivery%of%a%session%from%group%dynamics%to%weather%to%readiness%to%participate.%There%may%also%be%the%

addition%of%required%elements%or%PPE%being%available%on%the%day%due%to%maintenance%or%kit%not%being%in%a%

serviceable%condition.%

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Instructors%should%always%err%on%the%side%of%caution%and%if%they%have%any%doubt%about%ANY%aspect%of%delivery%of%

a%session%then%they%should%not%go%ahead%with%the%planned%activity%and%consult%with%the%technical%advisor.%

%

Hard'and'Technical'Skills:''Most%of%the%hard%and%technical%skills%required%to%instruct%on%the%climbing%wall%and%high%ropes%course%are%those%

covered%by%a%CWA/SPA%award%or%a%‘Site%Specific’%Training%Course.%There%are,%however,%some%additional%factors%

that%are%specific%to%the%facility.%

%

Most%of%the%elements%require%the%use%of%a%chest%harness%in%addition%to%the%sit%harness.%A%bowline%(and%stopper%

knot)%or%a%rethreaded%figure%of%8%(and%stopper%knot)%is%an%appropriate%method%of%attaching%a%climber%to%the%

rope.%The%climbing%wall%may%be%used%without%the%chest%harness,%but%the%chest%harness%gives%greater%control%

and%will%reduce%the%requirement%to%make%decisions%regarding%participant%size%and%suitability%of%a%sit%harness%

alone%or%combined%with%a%chest%harness.%In%addition,%the%chest%harness%combination%requires%participants%to%

be%tied%into%the%rope%and%will%reduce%the%risk%of%a%participant%leaving%the%ground%without%a%full%preOcheck%by%

the%instructor.%

%

The%use%of%griOgris%is%generally%found%to%work%well%but%correct%technique%and%supervision%is%still%essential.%

Lowering%requires%rope%control%b%the%hand%rather%than%by%the%mechanical%brake.%New%ropes%may%slide%very%

quickly%and%due%to%the%use%of%shear%reduction%blocks%(SRB’s)%there%may%be%relatively%little%friction%in%the%

system.%

%

Students%can%be%taught%to%belay%very%easily%but%also%make%fundamental%errors%very%commonly.%All%participants%

belaying%should%have%at%least%one%other%person%backing%them%up%(or,%in%some%cases%the%use%of%a%stopper%knot%

may%be%appropriate).%A%choice%needs%to%be%made%about%how%many%belay%points%an%instructor%can%effectively%

supervise%and%reference%should%be%made%to%the%‘ratio’%section%of%this%manual.%During%the%belaying%process%

there%should%never%be%a%situation%where%‘slack%rope’%may%enter%the%system,%which%may%result%in%the%generation%

of%a%potentially%dangerous%‘fall%factor’%should%a%participant%fall%or%load%the%system.%

%

Lowering%participants%is%accepted%to%be%a%potential%hazard%as%not%only%can%there%be%a%loss%of%control%that%may%

lead%to%a%participant%falling%there%is%also%the%risk%of%participants%being%entangled%or%‘hung%up’%in%the%many%

potential%obstructions%on%the%facility.%Staff%MUST%always%physically%supervise%lowering%closely,%if%they%choose%to%allow%participant%to%lower.%Greater%control%is%obviously%maintained%by%instructors%lowering.%Rapid%‘quick%

thrill’%lowering%should%be%avoided.%It%is%bad%practice,%sets%a%poor%example%and%stresses%equipment%

unnecessarily.%

%

All%instructors%and%participants%(including%any%supporting%staff)%must%wear%a%correctly%fitted%helmet%when%

inside%the%compound.%Instructors%must%also%wear%a%harness%at%all%times%when%delivering%the%session.%Even%

during%summer%conditions%it%is%suggested%that%legs%and%arms%be%fully%covered%to%avoid%any%risk%of%skin%abrasion%

and%also%UV%damage%from%the%suns%rays.%Jewellery%(except%stud%earrings),%loose%clothing,%long%hair%etc.%should%

not%be%worn%or%appropriately%tied%back%/%managed%so%to%reduce%the%risk%of%any%entrapment%or%entanglement%

with%the%features,%equipment%and%elements.%This%also%includes%any%sharp%or%bulky%items%from%pockets%and%

persons%to%avoid%the%risk%of%them%falling%or%protruding%into%the%participant.%

%

Additional%clothing,%hats%and%bulky%clothing%(perhaps%worn%in%time%of%wet%or%cold%weather)%should%be%carefully%

managed%to%avoid%the%ill%fitting%of%any%PPE.%

'

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Soft'Skills:''The%challenge%of%the%ropes%course%is%as%much%psychological%as%physical%yet%often%ignored.%Placing%someone%in%a%

situation%of%extreme%stress%should%not%be%done%casually.%Prior%to%using%an%element%participants%should%have%

the%opportunity%to%discuss%fears,%coping%strategies,%safety,%manual%support,%comfort%zones%and,%if%required,%see%

a%demonstration%of%an%element%in%practice.%These%factors%will%should%be%included%in%a%relevant%safety%briefing.%

It%is%also%important%to%discuss%how%their%application%on%the%ropes%course%can%be%applied%to%other%situations%too%

(team%work,%communication%etc.)%The%instructor%should%always%have%in%the%back%of%their%mind%some%basic%

questions:%

Why$am$I$doing$this?$Is$it$working?$Are$the$participants$benefiting?$Is$the$challenge$too$great$or$too$small?$How$do$I$evaluate$it?$%

In%addition,%participants%should%be%free%to%determine%their%own,%often%guided,%level%of%challenge.%This%concept%

is%referred%to%as%‘Challenge%by%Choice’.%

'Element'Specific'Notes:''The%following%notes%are%specific%to%each%of%the%elements%found%at%the%facility.%It%is%possible%to%use%more%than%

one%element%at%any%one%time,%ensuring%that%the%ratios%and%supervision%requirement%are%met,%however,%the%use%

of%the%trapeze,%all%aboard%and%crate%stack%cannot%be%combined.%Use%of%any%one%of%these%elements%would%

compromise%the%safety%of%another.%

%

Climbing%Wall%(inclined%and%vertical)%

'Aim:'To%reach%the%final%holds%of%the%wall%or%a%self%set%goal%%

Set'up:''Tracer%chord%is%used%to%pull%the%ropes%over%the%belay%bar%at%the%top%of%the%structure.%A%chest%harness%is%optional%

but%should%be%considered%when%participants%may%not%meet%the%safe%size%limits%of%sit%harness%alone.%

%

Key'Points:'•! Brief%group%prior%to%climbing%so%that%appropriate%targets%can%be%set%and%failure%to%reach%the%top%hold%is%

not%seen%as%a%major%defeat.%

•! This%may%also%be%necessary%when%briefing%groups%so%as%to%avoid%a%participant%climbing%onto%the%belay%

ledge%at%the%top%of%the%leaning%wall%(holds%are%currently%removed%to%reduce%the%risk%of%this%occurrence).%

•! Encourage%the%use%of%climbing%calls%and%preOclimb%checks%to%ensure%that%participants%do%not%climb%until%

the%instructor%is%satisfied%and%ready%to%supervise.%The%use%of%a%karabiner%to%clip%attach%a%climber%to%the%

rope%via%a%fig%8%knot%on%the%bite%is%acceptable%but%does%require%the%instructor%to%exercise%a%high%level%of%

vigilance%and%judgement.%

•! When%descending%the%wall%a%participant%should%be%briefed%to%use%their%legs%to%push%against%the%wall%to%

achieve%a%suitable%‘abseil’%position%to%descend%the%wall,%reducing%the%risk%of%any%bumps%and%scrapes%on%

the%wall.%

%

Variations:'Blind%climb,%elastic%loops,%etc.%Speed%climbing%is%discouraged%because%it%often%leads%to%poor%belaying%and%

techniques.%

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Jacobs%Ladder%'Aim:'To%climb%the%ladder,%as%high%as%possible,%as%a%team.%%Set'up:''Four%climbers%can%be%deployed%(working%to%‘ratio’%guidance)%but%if%less%than%four%are%participating%the%excess%or%unused%rope%/%tracers%must%be%tied%well%out%of%the%way.%%Key'Points:'

•! All%of%the%team%should%reach%the%same%level%before%moving%on%to%the%next.%This%element%can,%therefore,%create%peer%pressure.%

•! Participants%should%use%each%other%and%the%poles%for%the%support%(ensure%good%manual%handling).%The%wires%should%not%be%touched%due%to%the%possibility%of%wire%splinters.%Pulling%on%the%rope%is%discouraged%although%participants%can%use%each%other’s%harnesses.%A%length%of%tape%may%be%used%to%help%but%MUST'NOT%be%tied%into%a%loop%that%may%entangle%someone%

•! This%is%an%excellent%teamwork%activity,%but%physical%strenuous.%It%is%therefore,%generally)%unsuitable%for%younger%or%special%needs%groups%etc.%Placing%a%time%limit%on%the%groups%adds%to%the%urgency.%A%max%of%20mins%is%suitable%for%most%groups.%

•! Lowering%should%be%done%one%person%at%a%time.%Arms%and%legs%should%be%used%to%protect%the%body%and%face%from%solid%objects%(poles%etc.)%

%Leap%of%Faith%/%Pamper%Pol%'Aim:'Participant%to%reach%the%top%of%the%pamper%pole%and%reach%the%giant%ball%%Set'up:''Two%Participants%can%be%deployed%(working%to%‘ratio’%guidance)%but%if%only%one%rope%is%being%rigged%the%excess%or%unused%rope%/%tracers%must%be%tied%well%out%of%the%way.%The%touch%ball%should%be%adjusted%using%the%pulley%system.%%Key'Points:'

•! Climbers%to%climb%one%at%a%time.%•! It%is%important%to%monitor%belaying%closely,%especially%when%climber%is%reaching%the%platform%to%ensure%

that%the%rope%does%not%twist%around%their%neck.%Also%watch%for%any%entanglement%in%the%pole%holds%and%platform.%%

•! The%jump%should%be%achievable%and%the%slack%rope%should%be%taken%in%as%the%person%jumps.%•! If%two%jump%together%then%instructors%will%need%to%adhere%to%the%‘ratio’%information%in%this%manual.%If%

one%participant%misses%then%that%person%should%be%lowered%before%the%other%participant%to%avoid%collision.%

•! Lowering%should%be%done%one%person%at%a%time.%Arms%and%legs%should%be%used%to%protect%the%body%and%face%from%solid%objects%(poles%etc.).%

'%%%%%

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%Crate%Stack%'Aim:'To%build%a%tower,%as%a%team,%and%stand%group%on%top%of%it%%Set'up:''Identify%the%centre%of%the%‘crate%stack’%Four%Participants%can%be%deployed%(working%to%‘ratio’%guidance)%but%if%only%one%rope%is%being%rigged%the%excess%or%unused%rope%/%tracers%must%be%tied%well%out%of%the%way.%%%Key'Points:'

•! It%is%important%to%monitor%belaying%closely%and%ensure%that%any%participants%involved%in%passing%crates%are%supervised%so%that%crates%do%not%fall%on%them%/%tower%falls%over.%%

•! Crates%will%fall%and%‘fly’%everywhere%when%the%tower%becomes%unstable.%It%is%imperative%for%the%instructor%to%monitor%the%height%and%integrity%of%the%tower%and%guide%the%session%or%activity%to%create%a%suitable%and%safe%outcome%for%all%participants%–%this%may%rely%on%engineering%a%tower%to%fall%in%a%set%way%to%avoid%injury.%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%

''''

''

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SITE'SPECIFIC'OPERATING'PROCEDURES,'EMERGECNEY'ACTION'PLAN'AND'RISK'ASSESSMENT'%

Climbing'and'High'Ropes'Course'AC''In%the%event%of%an%emergency:%'All%staff%are%required%to%have%access%to%a%first%aid%kit%and%access%to%a%qualified%first%aid%member%of%staff.%Accidents%and%incidents%must%be%logged%and%recorded%in%the%usual%way.%%Should%an%accident%occur,%the%following%procedures%should%be%adopted%by%the%instructor.%

1.! Ensure%the%safety%of%the%rest%of%the%group%2.! Lower%casualty%to%the%ground%and/or%deal%with%the%problem%within%the%remit%of%your%training%3.! Apply%first%aid%in%accordance%with%your%first%aid%training%(and/or%call%for%help*)%

*In%the%event%of%a%serious%emergency%or%problem%being%encountered%above%the%realms%of%the%instructor%dial%999%'Rescue'Principles:'%Instructors%should%always%consider%the%range%of%problems%that%may%be%encountered%and%have%suitable%equipment%available%to%deal%with%those%problems.%In%any%case%the%instructor%must%be%able%to%ensure%the%safety%of%the%participants%and%themselves.%%Situations%might%include%a%frozen%or%stuck%climber%on%the%elements%–%often%the%platform%of%the%trapeze%or%the%platform%on%the%inclined%climbing%wall.%Holds%have%been%removed%from%the%incline%wall%to%reduce%the%risk%of%participants%gaining%access%to%this%area.%%Clear%briefings,%appropriate%choice%of%activity%and%good%soft%skills%can%usually%avoid%the%need%for%rescues.%Participants%can%usually%be%talked%down,%but%in%extreme%circumstances%the%instructor%may%need%to%leave%the%ground%and%reach%the%participant%on%the%element%to%assist.%%Given%that%the%participant%is%under%stress%their%behavior%may%be%unpredictable.%Should%they%make%a%sudden%lunge%or%move%for%the%instructor%then%protection%of%the%both%is%vital.%Instructors%should%always%be%secured%and%the%participant%belayed%by%a%‘competent’%belayer%with%appropriate%back%up%mechanisms%in%place.%Ideally,%two%members%of%staff%should%be%present,%which%would%facilitate%supervision%of%those%on%the%ground.%%Leaving%the%ground%should%be%a%LAST%RESORT%for%the%instructor%and%prior%thought%can%usually%make%leaving%the%ground%unnecessary.%%Appropriate%rescue%equipment%should%be%carried%and%instructors%should%know%how%to%use%this%equipment.%Typically,%this%could%include:%%Spare%tapes,%slings%and%karabiners%Knife%Auto%locking%belay%device%Spare%rope%First%aid%kit%

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%The%high%ropes%elements%and%top%of%the%climbing%wall,%if%necessary,%can%be%approached%from%above%using%the%maintenance%trolleys%and%vertical%access.%Using%a%spare%rope,%it%is%possible%to%abseil%to%a%stuck%participant,%clip%them%to%you,%cut%their%rope%and%abseil%both%of%you%to%the%ground.%This%rescue%is%not%something%to%be%taken%lightly%and%requires%prior%training%and%practice.%%%For%more%advanced%rescue%there%may%be%the%requirement%of:%ASAP%Cows%tails%Chest%harness%Pulleys%and%additional%hardware%%Staff%should%consider%the%worstOcase%scenario%and%make%physical%and%mental%preparation%to%allow%them%to%deal%with%that%situation.%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%

''''

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SITE'AND'ACTIVITY'SPECIFIC'RISK'ASSESSMENT'%

Climbing'and'High'Ropes'Course'AC'%Activity'Associated'Hazards'%

Potential'Outcomes'

Control'Measures%

Structural%Failure%of%Wall%and%Fixed%Rigging%%

Death%%Severe%Injury%%%Falling%Objects%

Annual%recorded%Type%C%inspection%of%structure,%components%and%fixed%equipment%by%an%approved%external%person%(as%per%ERCA%guidelines)%%Monthly%recorded%inspection%of%structure,%components%and%fixed%equipment%by%a%competent%person%as%approved%by%technical%advisor%%Recorded%preOuser%visual%inspection%by%a%qualified%instructor.%Records%of%instructor%training,%qualification%and%competence%to%be%kept%%Helmets%to%be%worn%by%any%person%inside%the%fenced%compound%%%OnOgoing%advice%and%monitoring%by%Technical%Advisor%

PPE%Failure% Death%%Severe%Injury%%%Falling%Objects%

Monthly%recorded%inspection%of%all%PPE%by%a%competent%person%as%approved%by%technical%advisor%%Recorded%preOuser%visual%inspection%of%all%PPE%by%a%trained%and%suitably%inducted%instructor%%All%instructors%to%be%suitably%qualified.%Records%of%instructor%training,%qualification%and%competence%to%be%kept%%OnOgoing%advice%and%monitoring%by%Technical%Advisor%

Hair,%Clothing,%Jewelery%and%Entanglement%in%Equipment%

Limb%entrapment%%Lacerations%to%the%skin%%Climber%becoming%stuck%on%wall/course%%

All%instructors%to%be%suitably%qualified.%Records%of%instructor%training,%qualification%and%competence%to%be%kept%%Loose%clothing%and%items%to%be%kept%clear%of%any%moving%parts%/%entrapment%hazards.%Jewellery%to%be%removed%and%hair%to%be%tied%back%etc.%%Instructor%to%check%participants%piror%to%climbing%/%belaying%%%Clear%safety%briefing%%Instructor%to%carry%knife%to%assist%with%any%potential%rescue%procedure%and%be%proOactive%in%avoiding%any%potential%for%entanglement%and%entrapment%%Monitoring%and%review%of%incident%/%accident%records%

!


%OnOgoing%advice%and%monitoring%by%Technical%Advisor%

Falling%Objects%% Head%injury%%Cuts%and%Bruises%

Helmets%to%be%worn%by%any%person%inside%the%fenced%compound%%%Instructor%to%check%participants%for%any%potential%items%that%may%fall%from%their%person%prior%to%climbing%(pockets%/%loose%trainers%etc.)%%Clear%safety%briefing%%Recorded%preOuser%visual%inspection%by%a%qualified%instructor.%Records%of%instructor%training,%qualification%and%competence%to%be%kept%

Adverse%Weather%

Hypo/er%thermia%%Lack%of%Communication%%Loss%of%Daylight%%Electrical%Shock%%Increased%risk%of%skips%and%trips,%sprains%and%strains%

Instructor%to%issue%sufficient%clothing/protection%and%advise%participants%on%suitable%clothing%for%the%forecasted%weather%%Instructor%to%ensure%that%suitable%footwear%is%worn%to%avoid%slips%and%trips%when%the%wall%/%elements%are%wet%%In%any%adverse%weather%the%session%should%be%cancelled%if%there%is%any%concern%(wind,%rain,%snow,%cold%etc.)%%Instructor%to%understand%how%the%weather%can%effect%performance,%ability%to%cope,%communication%etc.%of%both%the%participant%and%the%instructor%%Session%MUST%be%stopped%immediately%in%any%lightning%storm%

Loose%Ground%and%Obstructions%in%the%Compound%

Slips%and%Trips%%Sprains%and%Straing%

Recorded%preOuser%visual%inspection%by%a%qualified%instructor.%Records%of%instructor%training,%qualification%and%competence%to%be%kept%%%Any%potential%slip%or%trip%hazard%(ground%anchor,%crates,%ropes%etc.)%is%clearly%identified%to%the%group%%Monitoring%and%review%of%incident%/%accident%records%

Activity%induced%Injury%

Sprains%and%Strains%%Asthma%/%Respiratory%%%

Instructor%to%undertake%a%suitable%physical%and%mental%warm%up%%Instructor%to%have%access%to%participant%medical%information%and%any%required%medication%MUST%be%readily%accessible%in%the%event%of%it%being%required%%All%instructors%to%be%suitably%qualified.%Records%of%instructor%training,%qualification%and%competence%to%be%kept%

Stuck%or%Entangled%Participant%

Anxiety%/%Panic%Attack%%‘Frozen%Climber’%%

All%instructors%to%be%suitably%qualified.%Records%of%instructor%training,%qualification%and%competence%to%be%kept%%Instructor%to%give%clear%safety%briefings%to%ensure%that%each%element%of%the%wall%and%high%ropes%course%is%used%correctly%to%reduce%the%risk%

!


!

of%any%rescue%needing%to%be%initiated%

%

Soft%skills%are%to%be%considered%the%preferred%method%of%rescue%over%

a%technical%rescue%but%instructors%are%to%be%aware%of%the%risks%in%

delaying%a%rescue%

%

Instructor%to%follow%the%principles%of%‘Challenge%by%Choice’%and%

ensure%that%the%activity%is%both%suitable%for%the%level%of%the%group%and%

individual%

%

The%use%of%demonstrations%could%be%considered%a%key%part%in%

preparing%participants%for%a%challenge%or%activity%

%

If%the%instructor%has%any%doubt%about%the%ability%or%level%of%challenge%

then%it%is%suggested%that%the%difficulty%or%height%be%gradually%

increased%with%interim%checks%put%it%place%(i.e.%lowering%down%from%a%

climb%at%head%head%first%etc.)%

%

Instructor%to%clearly%communicate%with%a%participant%in%advcance%of%

undertaking%an%activity%or%challenge%and%also%during%any%rescue%or%

assistance%it%is%essential%that%the%instructor%informs%the%participant%as%

to%their%intentions%(reaching%a%stuck%climber%for%example)%

%

Instructors%to%understand%how%each%element%of%the%wall%works%in%

operation%and%how%they%can%retrieve%a%‘frozen%climber’.%Ensuring%

instructor,%group%and%participant%safety%is%paramount%during%this%

process.%

Falling%through%

loss%of%control%/%

belaying%

Death%

%

Severe%Injury%%

%

Falling%Objects%

All%instructors%to%be%suitably%qualified.%Records%of%instructor%training,%

qualification%and%competence%to%be%kept%

%

Instructor%to%give%clear%safety%briefings%which%will%include%preOclimb%

checks%and%procedure%

%

There%is%to%be%a%maximum%of%2%participants%in%the%‘air’%per%side%of%the%

wall%at%any%one%time%per%instructor.%

%

Instructor%to%clearly%supervise%the%belaying%and%lowering%of%

participants,%this%may%be%through%use%of%a%back%up%belayer,%onOgoing%

instruction%and%use%of%equipment%and%also%through%other%suitably%

trained%and%briefed%staff%involved%in%the%session%

%

OnOgoing%advice%and%monitoring%by%Technical%Advisor%

Interference%

from%other%users%

/%activities%

Distraction%and%

loss%of%

concentration%

Instructor%to%monitor%throughout%the%session%and%if%any%issues%are%

effecting%the%safe%running%of%the%session%then%the%session%MUST%be%

stopped%until%the%issue%can%be%resolved%

%

Close%supervision%of%participants%at%all%times%by%the%instructor%

!


SITE'AND'ACTIVITY'SPECIFIC'DOCUMENTS'%

Climbing'and'High'Ropes'Course'AC''

All%elements%must%be%inspected%prior%to%use%as%well%as%any%PPE%used.%This%would%normally%be%a%visual%inspection%and%should%there%be%ANY%concern%about%the%integrity%of%an%element%or%item%of%PPE%it%MUST%NOT%be%

used.%This%form%should%be%used%if%any%thing%is%found%to%be%UNSAFE%%Action:' Condition'(Safe'/'Unsafe)'Check%Compound%and%area%of%any%signs%of%vandalism%or%damage%(trees,%branches,%litter%etc.)%Including%the%back%up%cables,%guy%wires%(and%tension)%belay%anchors%and%structure.%

%

Ensure%there%is%no%loose%items%or%debris%on%the%structure%%

%

Integrity%of%any%PPE%to%be%used%(ropes,%harnesses,%helmets%etc.)%%

%

A%visual%check%(from%the%ground)%should%be%made%of%the%fixed%rigging%(SRB’s,%Timbers,%Touch%Ball%etc.)%

%

Details%of%Any%Unsafe%Items% Action%% %

%%%%

I%understand%that%it%is%my%responsibility%as%an%instructor%to%ensure%the%over%all%safety%of%my%group%and%participants.%I%am%suitably%qualified,%have%current%knowledge,%fit%to%instruct%and%have%evidenced%my%qualification,%have%a%valid%first%aid%certificate%and%have%read,%understood%and%agree%to%work%in%

accordance%with%the%details%in%the%User%Manual%for%the%facility.%If%I%am%in%any%doubt%about%any%aspect%of%the%session,%equipment%or%group%I%will%stop%the%session%and%record%any%details%with%the%technical%advisor.%

Signed:%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% Date:%

'For'Official'Use:'%Detail%any%action,%repair%or%details%of%any%maintenance%associated%with%the%above:%%%%Date:%Signed:%Print:%%%%%%

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