Girlguiding Sheffield Outdoor Activities Centre Whiteley Wood.

June 2012

Risk assessment for Weaselling This is a communication activity and involves scrambling on, around and under boulders and small rocks in the Burbage area of the Peak District. Guiding groups are led by competent adults with suitable experience. Other voluntary groups need to check with their organisation as to who is able to lead. School groups need to check with their LEA. Hazard
Uneven terrain, rough surfaces

Risk
Disabling or fatal injury Cuts, abrasions, sprained joints

Control Measures
Instructor to give safety instructions at beginning of activity Ability level of group is monitored throughout the activity Route can be changed according to group ability and weather Route is suitable without use of additional equipment such as ropes Instructor has undergone training Participants to wear long sleeves and have legs covered Participants to wear sturdy footwear Instructor and other adults to spot participants Group size and ratios appropriate (max 12 participants) min of 2 adults per group not including the instructor All participants wear helmets Safety briefing given to participants by instructor prior to activity on expected behaviour

Comments/Action
Weaselling instructor to assess and adapt session if necessary Instructor to carry first aid kit Group to carry first aid kit and have first aider on hand Group should provide 2 adults to help supervise

Risk rating
Medium

Fall from height, objects falling from above, trips and slips

Disabling or fatal injury

Low Participants monitored by all adults during activity Guiding groups should follow ratios as set out in the Guiding manual for activities

Review date: February 2013

Girlguiding Sheffield Outdoor Activities Centre Whiteley Wood. June 2012

Pollution/infection (From any waste encountered) Illness Hypothermia, heat exhaustion Illness Adequate outdoor clothing with long sleeves and legs covered Participants briefed on hygiene Adequate protective clothing and equipment to be worn by all participants Check weather forecast Instructor to alter plans if weather changes Use of appropriate health and parental consent forms Ensure required medication available Information about existing medical conditions known by instructor and leaders Accident/emergency procedures known by leaders Instructor first aid trained First aid equipment carried by instructor and leaders Suggested clothing kit list should be given to groups when booking Groups may wish to carry wipes or hand sanitiser Kit list as above Low

Exposure to environmental factors-heat, cold, rain, wind

Low

Existing medical condition

Leader in charge to inform instructor of any medical issues in group (inc adults) Copy of instructors first aid certificate kept in the office Recommend group also provide a first aider and first aid kit Access to mobile phone with appropriate phone numbers. Access to a vehicle if possible

Low

Drafted by: Rebecca Norton (Outdoor Activities Adviser) Checked by: Brian Crook (Health and Safety Adviser)

Review date: February 2013