Outdoor Activity Risk Assessment and Trip Plan Template
v2.3
Purpose. This template is completed for every outdoor activity or journey to record the plan, the risk assessment, the approval and the trip intentions held at the Outdoor Base.
1.How to use this template
The lead leader completes the template from the generic risk assessment for the activity, adapts it to the specific location, group and season, and submits it to the Outdoor Programs Manager for approval at least three days before the activity. The approved plan is the trip intentions record and is updated if the plan changes.
2.Group and leaders
Record every participant, their age, medical conditions, medications and emergency contacts from the program enrolment, and every leader with their qualifications, first aid currency and Working with Children Check status. Confirm the ratio meets the activity's good practice guide.
3.Route and timings
Describe the route with map references, distances, estimated times, campsites, water sources, escape routes and the latest safe time to reach each point. Record the overdue time at which the Outdoor Base activates the overdue protocol.
4.Risk assessment
For each hazard record the risk before controls, the controls, the residual risk and who is responsible. Include terrain, weather, fire, water, participants, equipment, communications and environmental impact.
5.Weather and go or no-go
Record the forecast, fire danger rating and river levels checked the day before and the morning of the activity and the decision made. State the conditions that will trigger modification or cancellation.
6.Equipment and communications
List group and personal equipment, first aid and emergency equipment, the communications device and the check-in schedule with the Outdoor Base.
7.Approval and close-out
The Outdoor Programs Manager signs the approval. On return the lead leader records the sign-in time, incidents, equipment faults and debrief notes.