RISK ASSESSMENT - WINDSURFING & SAILING

GENERAL

1. MEDICAL CONDITIONS. We should be aware of any medical conditions, illnesses or injuries before clients (groups or individuals) arrive on site. A system must be in place to ensure information filters down to all instructors.

ACTION

a) All individuals booking on a course of instruction must complete a booking form. If no form has been completed or is not available on site clients must be asked for details.
b) Individuals hiring on a casual basis must be asked discreetly for details of any relevant medical conditions.

2. SPECIAL NEEDS. Ensure adequate safety requirements for people with special needs.

ACTION

a) When accepting bookings ensure we have adequate information on the nature and extent of special needs.
b) Ensure adequate staffing for the session, be aware of any special safety requirements and staff are fully briefed.

3. SITE SPECIFIC HAZARDS. Client should be aware of any hazards.

ACTION

a) Instructors to brief clients on any hazards eg groynes
b) Close supervision of activities.
EQUIPMENT

1. RISK OF INJURY FROM FAULTY OR ILL-MAINTAINED EQUIPMENT

ACTION

a) Comprehensive equipment checks before every session and rigorous maintenance regime.
b) Keeping of a maintenance Log Book.

2. ISSUE OF INNAPPROPRIATE EQUIPMENT TO CLIENTS.

ACTION

a) Use only qualified staff to issue equipment
b) In-house training programme.

3. ABUSE/MISUSE OF EQUIPMENT.

ACTION

a) Client briefings (group and individual) to ensure clients aware of appropriate use of equipment.
b) Close supervision of activities.
MANAGEMENT OF ACTIVITIES

1. ACTIVITIES MUST BE APPROPRIATE TO THE WEATHER CONDITIONS

ACTION

a) Weather forecast taken on a daily basis
b) Instructor decides on the day how to manage the session and will review the decision as conditions change.

2. ACTIVITES MUST BE LED BY COMPETENT STAFF

ACTION

It is the policy of the Centre that activities should be led by staff qualified to the standards laid down by the following bodies (in order of priority)
a) The licensing authority in the case of those activities that fall within the scope of the Activity Centres (Young Persons’ Safety) Act 1995 and subsequent Regulations issued under the Act.
b) The National Governing Bodies
c) Qualifications are checked and copies kept on file.

3. APPROPRIATE STAFF/STUDENT RATIOS SHOULD BE MAINTAINED

ACTION

It is the policy of the Centre to adhere to recommended ratios laid down by NGBs.