dckc.co.uk · Web viewDCKC Risk Assessment. 1. Purpose. This document is a risk assessment...

Drumchapel and Clydebank Kayak Club Risk Assessment v1.0Date: 25/10/2016 Assessors: Graham Swanson, Leigh Murray, Sandy Johnston, Ross McKillop, Garry o’Donnel Review Due: June 2017

DCKC Risk Assessment1. PurposeThis document is a risk assessment conducted by the Drumchapel and Clydebank Kayak Club (DCKC) through its committee, members and coaches. The purpose of this risk assessment is to identify possible hazards to the persons taking part in activities organised through or by DCKC including the club’s members and general public, and to ensure that the measures/controls that the DCKC have in place are sufficient to minimise the chance of injury. It is acknowledged that Kayaking and Canoeing are assumed risk sports and as such it is impossible to completely eliminate all hazards/risks. It is also acknowledged that persons taking part in activities have a responsibility not only for their own safety but also for the safety of other people around them.

2. Context - HSEThe H.S.E. promote a Five Steps to Risk Assessment model which provides us with a working model that aids us in identifying hazards, who might be at risk and the controls needed to safeguard those who might be harmed.Step 1 – Look for the hazardStep 2 – Decide who might be harmedStep 3 – Evaluate the risks arising from the hazards and decide whether existing precautions are adequate, or should further precautions be requiredStep 4 – Record your findingsStep 5 – Review your assessment from time to time

/tt/file_convert/5f06416c7e708231d417138d/document.docx


3. Context – BCU GuidanceFurther Kayaking and Canoeing guidance was sought from http://www.bcu.org.uk/files/Risk%20Assessment.pdf which clarified 3 key concepts, Generic Risk Assessment, Site/Activity Specific Risk Assessment, Dynamic Risk Assessment and the Safe Person. An extract of BCU guidance is shown below:3.1 Generic Risk Assessment Generic risk assessment is important because it formalises our thinking and gives consistency to the way an organisation works or an event or activity might take place. The disadvantage of a generic risk assessment, written for everyone, is that it can become static and forgotten in practice. It may be read as prescribed by your supervisor but may not be used when you are working during a session. Such risk assessments are useful, for the inexperienced, in managing the unexpected or can help ensure consistency when the same trip or event is run regularly or by different people. They offer basic core principles, which can then be applied and adapted. They can encourage a more proactive approach to preparation, through training and equipment that might be carried.

3.2 Site/Activity Specific Risk Assessment As either a club or centre, activities organised and run by the club or centre, whether voluntarily or commercially, should be risk assessed to ensure that those participating in the activities can do so safely and in order that the club or centre meet the duty of care they carry to make this so. Undertaking this task may therefore require the club or centre to risk assess particular activities, specific sites used by or managed by the club or centre or indeed particular in-river features or structures used by the club or centre for activities.

3.3 Dynamic Risk Management / Risk Assessment The ongoing assessments we make throughout the day or throughout a session, is referred to as ‘the Dynamic Management of Risk’. This is an alternative to generic risk assessment. Dynamic risk assessment is a continuous process of identifying hazards. The risk is assessed and action taken to eliminate or reduce risk. In this way we are continually monitoring and reviewing the rapidly changing circumstances within paddlesport. Leaders take clients, students or friends into POTENTIALLY hazardous environments and situations. This is because they are prepared to accept reasonable levels of risk in order to provide an adventurous and interesting experience. Leaders must, however, seek to minimise the risk. From an outdoor activity point of view Dynamic risk management and assessment should always be complementary to any established generic risk assessment. Arguably as paddlers, in the context of paddler, coach or leader our individual experience and developed understanding and awareness of the environment in which we paddle provides us with the judgement skills to make 'dynamic' on the move decisions relating to both our own and the safety of others.That said however, and given that dynamic risk assessments cannot always be written down, a clearer understanding of the conscious and sub-conscious analysis of risk that goes on in such circumstances is important. Further details of dynamic risk assessment and its 'safe person’ concepts are shown below

3.4 The Safe Person In paddlesport we work and play in an inherently dangerous place. People go there for adventure and it’s not always possible or desirable to take all the dangers away from the environment. The alternative is to direct our efforts into making the person (participant, coach, client or student) safe. This approach is called the ‘safe person concept’. It must be clearly understood, that all leaders of whatever level, have the authority, as well as the duty, to take immediate action in the interest of safety. This is a fundamental part of the safe person concept. The safety of an individual paddling white water or of a group is reliant to a large degree on the self discipline, knowledge and skills of the individual person/s. A safe person has a number of important qualities as shown in diagram.The safe person concept therefore relies on a number of personal attributes together with the right support from paddling colleagues or other coaches allowing for flexibility of response in order to react to unforeseen or changing circumstances. In the end decisions will be made based on underpinning knowledge, skills and experience applied in precise circumstances faced at the time. We all have a responsibility for our own safety and the safety of other paddling colleagues, those of us that are coaches have an additional professional responsibility.


http://www.bcu.org.uk/files/Risk%20Assessment.pdf


4. SummaryDCKC believe we must show:

i. That a proper check was done (via discussion/correspondence with instructors, committee members or any other concerning body). ii. Identification of parties who might be affected (normally our club members). iii. All obvious hazards have been taken into consideration. iv. Precautions in place are reasonable and the remaining risk is low.

Additionally DCKC must take action if: i. A hazard is identified that does not have an appropriate control in place for it. ii. An activity is identified that even with appropriate controls, the remaining risk remains too high.



5. The Risk Assessment ProcessThe following pages list the risks, hazards and controls identified as part of this risk assessment. The risk assessment has been grouped into generic risks and activity/location specific sections for ease of use. Each identified risk/hazard is broken into two groups; severity and frequency with each awarded a score rating. The severity score identifies how serious the hazard/risk is if it were to occur. The frequency score identifies how often that risk/hazard is likely to occur. These scores are then multiplied together to derive the final risk rating. When awarding scores for severity and frequency, existing controls currently in place must be considered. For example, consider a novice paddler going surfing without supervision. The severity rating is likely to be 4, but with proper instructor supervision, this score would probably become 1 (i.e. the instructor would recognise conditions are beyond the paddlers capability and not allow them to participate in the particular activity). The scoring system for each item is as follows:

Severity :The severity score is a number between 1 and 4 and defines the severity of risk/hazard when it happens. The severity scoring system is as follows: 1 = Trivial 3 = Medical Treatment Required (e.g. Casualty, Hospital)2 = First aid injury (e.g. Small cuts and bruises). 4 = Serious or risk of death (e.g. serious injury)

Frequency: The frequency score is a number between 1 and 4 that defines the likely frequency of the risk/hazard actually happening. The frequency scoring system is as follows: 1 = Rare / Unlikely 3 = Common / Very likely2 = Occasional / Likely 4 = Routine / Certain Risk Rating

The final risk rating is evaluated by multiply the score in severity (a) with the score in frequency (b). This results in the final risk rating defined as: 1 Trivial 2 - 3 Tolerable 4 Moderate 6 - 8 Serious 9 - 12 Substantial 13 -16 Intolerable

DCKC shall take action if the final risk rating score is greater than 6. If the final risk rating falls in the intolerable group, it’s essential that the activity in question is ceased immediately until sufficient controls are in place to manage the risk effectively. In the likelihood that a control cannot manage that risk, then the activity shall be permanently ceased. Any new additional controls must be circulated to all club instructors and members through the various DCKC communications. This includes club session briefings.



5.2 Using the Risk AssessmentRisk Assessment is provided to give leaders and participants guidance as to the standards and precautions to be expected when taking part in Club activities. It is designed to ensure that everyone can have fun on the water in the knowledge that they are protected from harm to a reasonable degree. It does not guarantee safety but it gives sensible advice to minimise risk. Coaches and Trip Leaders will need to carry out dynamic risk assessments throughout the activity and act appropriately when circumstances are not covered by this document.This risk assessment is designed to operate in tandem with the club’s safety policy and the declarations made in the membership form or participation statement.

Generic risk assessmentRisk that could be present for the majority of paddling activities

Site / Activity specific risks “Risk To” example categories7.1 Pool7.2 Loch Lomond7.3 Pinkston – Club Wednesday sessions7. 4 Sea (& Surf)7.5 White Water7.6 Social Events

Coaches (incl Trip leaders)Club membersVolunteers / Helpers (e.g. parents, friends)Observers (e.g. Parents)PublicVulnerable Groups (U18’s etc)

5.3 Limitations of Club LiabilityAs a member of the club, members (and their guests or visitors) may use club premises, facilities and equipment entirely at their own risk and implicitly accept that:

the club does not accept liability for any loss or damage to personal property; Kayaking and Canoeing are assumed risk sports which carry risk of accident and injury; Canals,open water and the outdoor environment, including Loch Lomond, may present a risk of illness including Weil’s Disease and Lyme

Disease.

6. : Generic Risk Assessment



Ref Activity (Task) or Location

Risk(Hazards)

Potential Injury

Risk To Severity1/2/3/4

Likelihood1/2/3/4

Risk Rating SxL(1-16)

Precautions /Control Measures in Place

Final Evaluation

6.1 Boat racks (Outdoors Store / Pool or Loch Store)

Lifting injury as a result of lifting boats.Falling objects (boats).Slipping/falling off racksTripping over boats on floorPoorly stacked boats falling on peopleCuts from sharp edges

Impact CoachesMembersHelpers

2 2 4 BCU manual handling briefings and recommendations.Pairing up.Annual inspection and repair of racks.Signage to stop juniors removing high level boats.

Risk is within acceptable levels. Additional controls have been identified

6.2 Car Park Being run over or hit by a car. Lifting injuries from lifting kayaks to & from car roof racks.Falling or trippingCuts from broken glass and rubbish in car park.

Impact CoachesMembersHelpersPublic

3 1 3 BCU manual handling briefings and recommendations.Pairing up.Duty coach to enforce sensible parking in car park.Coaches to monitor car park for broken glass and remove.


6.3 Moving Boats in Store/To Cars/Venue(Note There may be further Venue/Activity Assessment)

Personal injury – Manual handling

Back injury

CoachesMembersHelpersPublic

2 2 4 Use best practice in manual handling when moving boats. Ensure boats do not obstruct pathways. Take care not to injure other park users when carrying boats. Coaches to supervise movement of boats. Novice members to be given instruction in manual handling techniques





Risk(Hazards)

Potential Injury


Likelihood1/2/3/4



Final Evaluation

6.4 Transport Transportation of boats. Loss of boats in transit. Theft or loss of kit.Damage to other road users propertyInjury of pedestrians (if a boat falls off in transit)

Fatality or major injury

CoachesMembersHelpersPublic

4 1 4 For transportation boats are usually carried on roof racks or loaded into vans.Roof racks should be securely fixed to vehicles and boats should be securely tied to roof racks using straps. Novice members to be given instruction in the use of straps.Training in manual handling / boat loading to be a part of all introductory club sessions.All cars used for transport on trips to have full insurance and valid MOT certificate.DCKC has annual third party fire and theft insurance for club boats and kit within the outdoor stores.


6.5 Transport – Driving to Venue

Road Traffic Accident Fatality MembersHelpersPublic

4 1 4 “Racing” not encouraged.Organisers allocate adequate time/contingency


6.6 Transport -Club Trailers

Club trailersLoading – weightSecuring – various people will tie on boats (final check)Trailing straps – caught in wheelsMudguards sprayTyres – depth / Pressure

Fatality MembersPublic

4 1 4 Spare tyresDrivers personal responsibility for lighting checks each time.Drivers also have responsibility to ensure that boats are securely tied on and that tyres are correctly inflated





Risk(Hazards)

Potential Injury


Likelihood1/2/3/4



Final Evaluation

6.7 Kayaking and Canoeing

Drowning risk (Generic Risk)

Drowning

CoachesMembers

4 1 4 Buoyancy aids must be worn at all times on or near water. Kayaks to meet BCU standards (minimum buoyancy, end grabs etc.).All participants given a pre-session briefing detailing action to be taken in the event of a capsizeAll BAs to be correct size for participantChecks to be made by coaches



Drowning Risk (Non-swimmers)Participating or observing

Drowning

Observers 4 1 4 Reminder to observers/provision of safety equipment



Entrapment in closed cockpit kayak due to capsizeIncreased Drowning risk with entrapment in Neoprene Spraydeck

Drowning

CoachesMembers

4 2 8 Spraydecks to have grabloopsTrainingSupervision, leader and coaching (evaluate paddler)Signage (e.g. “Neoprene Spraydecks not for general use. Only use if experienced and trained in their use”)

4x1 = 4

Controls have made activity safe to within acceptable levels


Collision with other paddlers/water users.

Impact injuries

CoachesMembersOther Kayakers

2 2 4 Equipment used to be properly sized and adjusted for participants





Risk(Hazards)

Potential Injury


Likelihood1/2/3/4



Final Evaluation


Capsize resulting in head injuries.

Head injury

CoachesMembers

3 2 6 Helmets should be worn in environments where this is a possibility, eg surf or white water.Sea kayak Coach/Leader where no helmets available to manage landings (e.g. sand v rocks / staged landings with helpers / rafted options / delay / change of landing location)

2 x 2 = 4



Cuts and or grazes to feet from objects on lake bed or shore. Injuries from trips and slips

Cuts Coaches and session participants

2 2 4 Appropriate footwear to be worn at all times.Plan entry/exit





Risk(Hazards)

Potential Injury


Likelihood1/2/3/4



Final Evaluation

6.13 Kayaking and Canoeing or general activity

Pre-Existing Medical ConditionMembers could suffer from an allergic reaction, asthma or onset of any other pre-existing condition such as asthma, epilepsy, heart condition

Varies with condition

CoachesMembers

3 1 3 As part of club induction process members and participants are asked about pre-existing injuries. They are made aware that it is their duty to inform their coaches of any medical conditions or pre-existing injuries (for example, asthma) that may be relevant and it is their responsibility to take the lead in deciding what action needs to be taken.Members and participants are advised to have the appropriate medicines easily available (for example, inhaler).Trip leaders encouraged to ask about medical conditions at initial briefing.Coaches/Leader to ensure appropriate medicines are easily available or not allow such paddlers afloat. Note: Coaches, trip leaders and first aiders cannot normally dispense medication for internal use.



Leptospirosis and other water borne viruses including blue/green algae (infection)

Infection CoachesMembers

3 1 3 Brief participants to wash hands and face before eating, cover any open wounds, do not drink the water. Shower after contact with water.Weil’s Disease guidance issued to members on joining.





Risk(Hazards)

Potential Injury


Likelihood1/2/3/4



Final Evaluation


Hypothermia (Generic Risk)Weather conditions resulting in exposure / hypothermiaCasualties boat may be blown/drift off course – paddler unable to control

Hypothermia

CoachesMembers

3 3 9 All coaches and session participants to wear clothing appropriate for the conditions.Checks on clothing to be made by coaches, and judgement calls to be upheld.Coach would normally carry thermal blanket / bivvy bag / group shelter for conditions.Members actively encouraged to carry spare clothing in dry bag and warm drinkSet boundaries for venue where possible

3 x 1 = 3



Heat stroke / Dehydration

Heat stroke

CoachesMembers

3 1 3 Education of participants to carry drinks/water.



Ailment, Fatigue, Injury leading to unable to paddle

Group stranded.

Members 2 1 2 Trip leader / members recommended to consider need for towing including towing system available.



Lightning StrikePaddlers on loch/sea are often the highest object

Fatality Members 4 1 4 Seek cover (i.e. Land).Planning and weather check.



Unauthorised boat use by strangers leading to injury

Multiple potential injury mech-anisms

Casual park users

4 1 4 Unused boats to be returned to the store or secured to stop unauthorised use





Risk(Hazards)

Potential Injury


Likelihood1/2/3/4



Final Evaluation

6.20 Using Club Equipment

No longer fit for purpose (e.g. broken)Faulty equipment – (e.g. boat with a skeg that doesn’t go back up can made boat control in open water more difficult)Hygiene factor too – how frequently is clothing washedBuoyancy in river kayaks – particularly relevant on loch/river if there is a capsize.Should be able to be appropriately adjusted for user – poor posture, increased risk of strains

Cuts

Increased risk of follow on incident

Infection

Muscle strain

Muscle strain

CoachesMembers

2 2 4 All ‘personal protective equipment’ should be checked to ensure it is intact, not excessively worn, and is ‘fit for purpose’.There is a system for the inspection, care and maintenance of equipment.Non suitable equipment should be immediately disposed of and replaced as soon as possibleThere should be a range of sizes available, including items that fit children, and small, Medium and Large & X-Large sizes.Equipment to be repaired the attach notice for out of use and advise equipment officer


6.21 Learning to Roll Personal injury increased risk of drowning / entrapment / head injury in shallow waterRisk of hypothermia – duration of practice / amount of time in waterMuscle strains / injury

Drowning, Head Injury, Hypothermia,Muscle strain

CoachesMembers

2 2 4 Ensure rolling tuition undertaken in safe depth of water. Consider wearing of helmet.Practice in suitable depth close to shore – check ability to swim to bank if required. Paired with kayaker capable of rescue skillsHot showers at Loch Lomond – ideally wear drysuit with suitable underlayers – neoprene cap (retain heat when head wet).Coach introduction and pre-training.

2 x 1 = 2





Risk(Hazards)

Potential Injury


Likelihood1/2/3/4



Final Evaluation

6.22 Coach to student ratio

Unable to manage numbers of students.

Multiple injury mechanisms

Possible capsize / injuries

3 2 6 Club SOP deals with club procedures including trip leaders assessing numbers based on trip/weather and other variable factors.Coach/Trip leader to evaluate as required via dynamic risk assessment.No set maximum ratio is considered appropriate.

2 x 2 = 4


6.23 First Aid Blood-bourne disease passed whilst administering 1st aid.

Blood -bourne disease

First AidersMembers

3 1 3 First aid courses include risk and suggest mask / gloves.


6.24 First Aid Absence of first aider on club trip

Un-treated First aid injury

Club members 2 1 2 SOP covers first aid.First aid is an 'after the injury has occurred' control.


6.25 All club activities Children welfareVulnerable group welfare

Inappropriate contact/ behaviours

Vulnerable groups / Children

N/A N/A N/A Executive committee PVG passedCoaches PVG passedExtensive PVG procedures based on SCA guidance incorporated in club SOP and other procedures.

PVG procedures are in place and subject to review



7: Site and Situation Specific Risk Assessment7.1 Pool (Including Polo)


Risk(Hazards)

Potential Injury


Likelihood1/2/3/4



Final Evaluation

7.1.1 Transporting boats around from store

Traffic (Road Traffic Accident)Impact from boat trolley

Crush CoachesMembersHelpersPublic

3 1 3 Adult must be in charge of moving blue trolley.Street lighting.Speed limits on roads.


7.1.2 Equipment storage and moving equipment in pool store

Crush and manual handing injuriesImpact from blue Trolley falling in store / poolside

Crush CoachesMembersHelpers

2 1 2 Ensure Boat racks are maintainedBoats are stored & restrained safelyAdults remove and replace boats


7.1.3 Equipment Fire – Exits blocked by craft

Fatality MembersPublic

4 1 4 Fire exit area to be kept clear of craft.Pool fire management systemsIn event fire could clear area.


7.1.4 Equipment Trip hazards around pool.

Impact / Falls

MembersPublic

2 2 4 Member on duty to enforce equipment safety around poolside


7.1.5 Moving about poolside / pool edge Poolside

Slipping on poolside resulting in fall and injury.

.

CoachesMembersPublic

2 2 4 Adhere to pool rules.Adequate BCU coach supervision (must be 1 present where U18’s present)Lifeguard cover.Limit on numbers in pool.Pool has first aid kits





Risk(Hazards)

Potential Injury


Likelihood1/2/3/4



Final Evaluation

7.1.6 Moving and emptying canoes

Manual Handling of Kayaking and Canoeing equipment.

Back injury

Members 2 1 2 Airbags in rear to reduce boat weightEarly induction/training of novices to introduce manual handling concepts.Young children to work in pairs or seek help.


7.1.7 Other participants Impact injuries from craft or paddle

Impact Members 2 2 4 Teach safety and awareness Risk is within acceptable levels. Additional controls have been identified

7.1.8 Pool Sessions with swimmers in water

Swimmer/Paddler collisions

Impact Members 2 1 2 Ensure non paddlers (due to the nature/structure of the session) are not in the pool and on the pool side being aware of where the boats are


7.1.9 Pool session (coached including games and raft running)

Head injuries Impact Members 4 1 4 Games to be closely supervised and participants warned about dangers from paddles/bats and competitive games


7.1.10 Kayaking and Canoeing / Swimming

Drowning Drowning

Members 4 1 4 Ensure participants can swim.Teach capsize drillLifeguard on duty at all sessionsClub encourages FSRT trainingSpray decks are maintained. No club neoprene decks at pool.Boats are maintained and easy to exit


7.1.11 Use of swimming pool

Common swimming pool issues:- Eardrum damage- inner ear infection

Loss of hearing

Members 3 1 3 Pool hygiene procedures. Risk is within acceptable levels.




Risk(Hazards)

Potential Injury


Likelihood1/2/3/4



Final Evaluation

Canoe Polo7.1.20 Canoe Polo Slip, trip or fall for

referee (focussing on game)

Falling injuries

Referee 2 1 2 Pool side kept clear of obstacles. Risk is within acceptable levels. Additional controls have been identified

7.1.21 Canoe Polo Skeletal or muscular injury. E.g. from paddling, recovery strokes or throwing

Injury Players 2 2 4 Warm up.Teach correct movement


7.1.22 Canoe Polo Impact from Canoe Impact injury

Players 2 3 6 Wear helmets, faceguards, buoyancy aids during full contact sessionsObey referee and rules during contact gamesPushing against pool side highlightedPadding on nose/tail of boats where available (not essential)

2 x 2 = 4


7.1.23 Canoe Polo Cuts or injury from paddle

Cut Players 2 1 2 Not all paddles are polo compliant (e.g edge thickness). Clarify responsibilities. Manage aggression levels.




7.2 Loch Lomond (and River Leven)


Risk(Hazards)

Potential Injury


Likelihood1/2/3/4



Final Evaluation

7.2.1 Struck by vehicle in Slipway car park

RTA / Vehicle impact Vehicle Impact

MembersHelpersPublic

4 2 8 Coach or adult helper to monitor movement of vehicles and people (including children). Under 10’s accompanied by parent/guardian.Comply with local traffic managementSpeed limits apply and near junctions/roundabout.Limited ability to reach high speed.

3 x 1 = 3

7.2.2 Seal launching from Jetties

Impact with pierImpact with other kayak

Musculoskeletal injury

Members 3 1 3 Only when supervisedTraining


7.2.3 Paddling on Loch Jetski Impact injury

MembersPublic

3 1 3 Coach leader to have awareness and take suitable precautions eg keep group close together


7.2.4 Paddling on Loch Flying Boat Impact injury

MembersPublic

4 1 4 Coach leader to have awareness and take suitable precautions eg keep group close together. Guidance in SOP.





Risk(Hazards)

Potential Injury


Likelihood1/2/3/4



Final Evaluation

7.2.5 Injury from missiles on the canal/river bank

Impact from thrown objects

Impact injury from thrown objects

Members 2 1 2 The river passes through town areas. Unfortunately sometimes missiles can be thrown at paddlers.Paddlers should be made aware of occasional verbal abuse and throwing of missiles by members of the public (usually young people).Paddlers are advised not to confront anyone shouting abuse/throwing things.Police to be called if serious incident arises. 999 if immediate risk, 101 if not


7.2.6 River Paddle Conflict with other river usersThe loch and River Leven are well used by other boats and fishermen.The river is a popular fishing spot, so members must be able to spot and avoid fishing lines. Try to give fishermen a bit of space - they will appreciate it.

Fish hook in skin.

Threat/ actual violence.

Verbal abuse.

Members 2 1 2 Coach/leader to communicate with fishermen to ascertain route past


7.2.7 River Paddle Fishing Lines (Entanglement)

Drowning Members 4 1 4 Avoidance of trees (where fishing lines tend to be caught) is standard river practice.Leadership, Briefing.





Risk(Hazards)

Potential Injury


Likelihood1/2/3/4



Final Evaluation

7.2.8 River Paddle Weir on River Leven (Balloch)Weir (Dumbarton)

DrowningImpact injuries

Members 2 1 2 Normal egress to cars is above Dumbarton weir.Weir not present at High Water.Floats protect Balloch Weir.Helmets normally worn on rivers (Not always)




7.3 PinkstonRef Activity (Task) or

LocationRisk

(Hazards)Potential

InjuryRisk To Severity

1/2/3/4Likelihood

1/2/3/4Risk Rating SxL(1-16)


Final Evaluation

7.3.1 Parking and moving kit

Car park injury Impact injuries

Members 3 1 3 General care by participantsPark in marked baysLocal traffic management.Small area limits impact speed.


7.3.2 Observing / Moving Gates

Fall from height into empty channel

Fall from height.

ObserversMembers

3 2 6 ***** When pumps off and moving gates at bottom of course especiallySegregated path by PinkstonNormally adjust gates with pumps running (not always)(Note as site is publicly accessible we have no control of risk to general public)

3 x 1 = 1


7.3.3 Changing Changing room welfare.(Vulnerable Groups)

N/A Vulnerable groups

N/A N/A N/A Supervision by coaches.See SOP and PVG.

Part of Club ethos. See also 6.2.5

7.3.4 Kayaking and Canoeing equipment error

Rope/Sling carried or used leads to pump damage (Equipment damage / £ risk only)

N/A Equipment and Money Only

N/A N/A N/A No throw lines Financial damage only

7.3.5 Kayaking and Canoeing at Pump Inlet Gate

Panic leading to not walking along grillCapsize near/beside grill with upside down swimmer who is pulled on to grill.

Drowning MembersGuest Paddlers

4 2 8 Emergency StopBriefing of paddlersGrill can be “walked along” to safety.Boat exit against grill possible.

4 x 1 == 4





Risk(Hazards)

Potential Injury


Likelihood1/2/3/4



Final Evaluation

7.3.6 Kayaking and Canoeing – Top Pool

Top pool stopper - stuck in as swimmer or in boat.


3 2 6 Emergency StopBuddy paddlingOption to launch below upper pool.Once exited boat swimmer with BA should be able to breath/make progress to edge.

3 x 1 = 3


7.3.7 Kayaking and Canoeing Channel

Pinning - Plastic boulders (in awkward position often near current) Boat horizontal.


4 1 4 Emergency StopBuddy paddling


7.3.8 Swimming channel

Striking underwater blocks

Impact injury

MembersGuest Paddlers

2 4 8 BA and helmet worn at all times including deliberate swimming.Supervision and coaching prior to deliberate swim.Defensive swimming techniques.Blocks are (relatively) rounded) compared to actual rocks.

2 x 2 = 4


7.3.9 Kayaking and Canoeing Channel and Basin

Collision (other boats). Give way to downstream paddler

Impact MembersGuest Paddlers

2 3 6 Although no formal limit on paddler numbers is set the responsible person may see fit to limit numbers (e.g. one on one off etc). The course allows multiple paddling locations.Teach etiquette to watch upstream and to give way from upstream.

2 x 2 = 4


7.3.10 Kayaking and Canoeing Channel and Basin

Unobserved swim with paddlers caught in boat and reaches bottom basin / eddy


4 1 4 Buddy paddling.Paddler development includes safe exit from craft.





Risk(Hazards)

Potential Injury


Likelihood1/2/3/4



Final Evaluation

7.3.11 Guest Paddlers Unknown illness/allergy

Varies Guest Paddlers

2 1 2 Guest paddlers won’t have completed membership form including medical conditions.Pinkston is close to full A&E hospital and ambulance service.Pinkston ESO from club should ask.Guest clubs come as a group.See also 6.13




7.4 Sea Kayaking and Canoeing (Including Surf)Ref Activity (Task) or

LocationRisk

(Hazards)Potential


1/2/3/4Likelihood



Final Evaluation

7.4.1 Sea Kayaking and Canoeing

Drowning Drowning Club Member 4 1 4 All members at all time on the water/adjacent to water (coaching) to wear a PFD.Coaching/Leader supervision.Instruction and information to be given to new members before entering the water (as to rescue procedures).Coach / leader to plan and evaluate water conditions before entering.Capsize drill to be coached prior to trip.



All paddlers in water and unable to re-enter craft

Drowning Club Member 4 1 4 Self-rescue and all in rescue should be taught on club nights.

7.4.3 Beach launch/Landing

Impact/Collision with other paddlers/water users/ impact with shore.

Bruise/ Impact

Club MembersOther surf/beach users

3 3 9 Instructor briefing on arrival at beach. Inspection of weather, tide & surf conditions.Appropriate safety equipment (helmets, PFD, footwear).Do not exceed paddler’s limits (instructor discretion).Helmets to be work when surfing or approaching a beach etc. in moderate or higher sea state.

2x3=6


7.4.4 Walking from car to water.

Slip, Trip, Fall SprainStrain

Club Members 2 3 6 Parking place to be planned for trips.Route and access to water to be discussed.

2x2=4





Risk(Hazards)

Potential Injury


Likelihood1/2/3/4



Final Evaluation

7.4.5 Moving loaded craft

Manual Handling of boats / Equipment.

Musculo-skeletal SprainStrain

Club Members 2 3 6 Training in manual handling to be a part of all beginners sessions and repeated occasionally for other club members.Use of correct lifting techniquesMinimise lifting and carrying by; sharing, use of slings, trolleys, minimal carry distance.Group working/team handling.

2x2=4



Weather exposure (Summer)

Sunburn and De-hydration

Club Members 3 1 3 Coach/instructor to Plan for weather conditions.Provide information an instruction as to weather conditions.Participants to be reminded of the need to carry drinks/water/wear hat and cover exposed skin.Coach /instructor to carry sun tan lotion.

2x1=2



First Aid injuries caused by abrasions, impact with environment, waste materials (flotsam and jetsam)

Cuts, blisters, bruising impact muscle strain

Club Members 1 4 4 Coaches/Instructors to plan routes on water and land.Coaches/Leaders trained in first aid and carry a first aid kit.





Risk(Hazards)

Potential Injury


Likelihood1/2/3/4



Final Evaluation


Weather exposure /winter

Hypo-thermia

Club Members 3 3 9 Coach/instructor to Plan for weather conditions.Provide information an instruction as to weather conditions.Coach should carry spare hat, gloves, emergency shelter, spare hot drink.Participants to be reminded of the need to wear clothing appropriate for the conditions and to carry additional clothing.

3x2=6



Paddling RSI or similar. Often through poor technique (trunk rotation) or through a stepping up in distance without training/experience/technique

Exhaustion leading to injury (e.g. drowning)

Club Members 2 4 8 Appropriate coaching techniques for paddling.Ensure proper stretching and warm up routine is carried out as an integral introduction to every paddle.Ensure training in rescue techniques that avoid excessive strain when handling waterlogged boats and heavy paddlers in the water.Coach/Leader to carry tow line.

2x3=6



Entanglement/Entrapment with own equipment / seaweed / nets

Drowning Club Members 3 1 3 Coaches/Leaders to plan route.Coach/Leader to carry a knife.


7.4.11 Contact with wild life (insects jelly fish)

Stings Sting Club Members 2 1 2 Coach/Leader to carry first aid kit and fresh/potable water.


7.4.12 Camping Injury from group fire Burn Club Members 3 1 3 Supervision by experienced/older participants where junior members are present.




7.5 White Water River (Kayak / OC)Ref Activity (Task) or

LocationRisk

(Hazards)Potential


1/2/3/4Likelihood



Final Evaluation

7.5.1 Paddler inexperience

Personal safety /Group safety

DrowningImpact

Members 4 1 4 Appointed trip leader(s)Trip leader(s) to assess suitability of participantsEncourage WWSR attendance once above Grade 2 paddling(Note: inexperience is often a contributing factor to incidents)


7.5.2 Rubbish Cuts, other injuriesEnvironment

Cuts Members 2 2 4 Trip leader may direct group to avoid risk.Take first aid kitTake own rubbish home


7.5.3 River Bank Slipping on steps when launching or exiting from main river.Falling Injuries / Falling into river

Slips, trip, falls

Members 2 2 4 Wear buoyancy aid at all timesWear appropriate footwear


7.5.4 Personal Muscular injury Muscular injury

Members 2 2 4 Leader should encourage warm upTeach correct movementTeach portage techniques


7.5.5 Paddling Collision with other paddlers

Impact injury

Members 2 2 4 Teach safety and awarenessWatch out for other craftMove out of the way of other water users.Consider an “upstream spotter” in very busy playspots.


7.5.6 Paddling Exhaustion (Generic) Sequential injury from original equipment failure.

Members 3 1 3 Take regular breaksTake suitable food and drink for tripConsider group members when planning length of trip





Risk(Hazards)

Potential Injury


Likelihood1/2/3/4



Final Evaluation

7.5.7 Equipment Poor equipment leading to Breakage / Loss

Sequential injury from original equipment failure.

Members 2 1 2 Equipment is maintainedPaddler knowledge of kit capabilitiesAirbags in boat


7.5.8 Kayaking and Canoeing

Drowning (Generic) Drowning Members 4 1 4 Ensure participants can swim and wear a buoyancy aidTeach capsize drillAppropriate safety equipment (helmets, PFD). Weather protection (cags, etc). Sensible footwear to be worn by all.Require that all members are competent swimmers. Instruct on capsize drill, rolling and swimming in moving water. Teach rescue techniques. Carry appropriate rescue equipment.


7.5.9 Kayaking and Canoeing - Equipment

Entrapment in boat (Generic)

Drowning Members 4 1 4 Teach capsize drill and rollingBoats are maintained and easy to exitSpray decks are maintained



Capsize resulting in head injuries.Rocks leading to head injury / Unconsciousness

Impact injuryDrowning

Members 4 1 4 Appropriate helmet for Canoeing/Kayaking available from club.Leader to assess fit/tightness of helmet.Adopt correct position when capsized and when swimming.





Risk(Hazards)

Potential Injury


Likelihood1/2/3/4



Final Evaluation


Rocks leading to PinningInjuries

Breaks to limb or spinal injury

Members 4 1 4 Safety equipment availableDo not paddle alone (ideal group size is 3 or more)Wear helmetFirst aid equipment availableClub boats up to Grade 4 limit. If paddling Grade 4 or 5, then awareness of footpeg/footplate design will be within a grade paddlers knowledge.



Submerged items leading to Entrapment /Pinning /Injuries

Drowning Members 4 1 4 Avoid paddling close to banks/treesKnowledge of water flowsWear helmetDo not paddle aloneAvoid rocks by good leadership and paddling. Know how to cope with broaching on a rock. Group leaders know how to rescue from pins.Swimming techniques – defensive and aggressive.Selection of river grade/power by trip leader/coach.



Locks / Weirs, Recirculating hydraulics

Drowning Members 4 1 4 CLAP principle is taught to trip leaders/coaches.Experienced person to inspect weir/hydraulics before paddling into them.Use appropriate white water equipment.Throwlines carried.Use of river guidebooks.





Risk(Hazards)

Potential Injury


Likelihood1/2/3/4



Final Evaluation


Stoppers / holes leading to Drowning

Drowning Members 4 1 4 Good leadership and paddlingTeach methods for paddling through and in stoppersTeach method for swimming in and rescue from stoppersSafety equipment readily availableGroup awareness



Paddler contacts trees in river e.g.Caught in strainer

Drowning Members 4 1 4 CLAP – line of sight and avoidance/anticipation.Avoid trees in river - trip leader.Trip briefing.Knowledge of swimming techniques.Clean body principle (straps/ropes) to reduce risk of entanglement.



Rescuer / chase boater struggle to move or empty boat

Back injury

Members 2 2 4 Air bags (rear)Buoyancy (Front) where possibleClub boats Grade 4 limit.Buoyancy in club canoes


7.5.17 Heavy boats (full/in current)

Moving craft during incidentManual handling injuries

Back injury

Members 2 2 4 Teach and use correct lifting and rescue techniques.


7.5.18 Equipment Ropes and equipment(Including if left in situ / across river)

Drowning MembersOther paddlers

4 1 4 Learn how to use throwlines and chest harnesses properly. Carry knife.


7.5.19 Open Canoeing Kneeling Thwart / Seat entrapment

Drowning Members 4 1 4 Aim to add QRKT to club boatsEncourage paddlers to carry a saw, make them aware of the possibility of this type of entrapment


7.5.20 Open Canoeing Bear Trap Pinning Drowning Members 4 1 4 Briefing to include importance of not being downstream of capsized open canoe.




7.6 Social EventsRef Activity (Task) or

LocationRisk

(Hazards)Potential


1 / 2 / 3 / 4

Likelihood1 / 2 / 3 / 4

Risk Rating S x L (1-

16)


Final Evaluation

7.6.1 Ceilidh Injury Slip, Trip, Fall, Impact

Participants 2 1 2 Mix of imbibing and non-drinking adultsCeilidh band experience.


7.7Peer (or Friends) TripsRef Activity (Task) or

LocationRisk

(Hazards)Potential


1 / 2 / 3 / 4

Likelihood1 / 2 / 3 / 4

Risk Rating S x L (1-

16)


Final Evaluation

7.7.1 Trip All risks highlighted in sections 6.1 to 7.5

All injury mechanisms in sections 6.1 to 7.5

Participants 4 2 8 Peer trips do not form part of club activities and are beyond the scope of this risk assessment.Guidance on borrowing club equipment is provided for members and it is their responsibility to ensure their activities are within their experiences.The guidance provided cannot be enforced by the club, committee or its representatives.By highlighting the peer/club trip status participants can assess their own capabilities.

4x1=4




Emergency procedures

1. Contact Emergency Services – POLICE / FIRE / AMBULANCE, by dialling 999.2. Non-emergency calls – dial 101. Club emergency points of contact – See 5.3. All coaches and trip leaders are trained first aiders4. Club advisors –Sandy Johnston’s telephone number is : 07962226280

Risk Assessment Reviewed by DCKC Committee

Date: 25 /10 / 2016 Chairman : Bernie Tolland

Date to be Reviewed : October 2017


dckc.co.uk · Web viewDCKC Risk Assessment. 1. Purpose. This document is a risk assessment...

Documents

Transcript of dckc.co.uk · Web viewDCKC Risk Assessment. 1. Purpose. This document is a risk assessment...