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Tarp shelter setup in woodland setting
Forest Schools

Using Tarps and Hammocks Risk Assessment Template

The complete guide to creating professional risk assessments for tarp and hammock activities.

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Free to use Instant PDF download Updated February 2026

In This Guide

1 Introduction2 Benefits3 Hazards4 Checklist5 Related

Essential guidance for tarp and hammock safety

Setting up tarps and hammocks teaches practical outdoor skills including knot work, shelter design, and site selection. These activities create comfortable resting spaces and weather protection in woodland environments.

This guide covers key hazards including falling from hammocks, rope entanglement, branch failure, and trip hazards from guy lines.

Hammock setup between trees in forest
Outdoor Learning
Outdoor Learning
Activity Benefits

Why tarps and hammocks matter

Practical Skills

Provides experience with knots, shelter design, and tarp layout.

Teamwork

Encourages problem-solving and teamwork when constructing shared spaces.

Relaxation

Supports physical relaxation and emotional recovery in hammock setups.

Independence

Fosters independence in creating personal resting or hiding places.

Risk Identification

Key hazards & control measures

Falls from HammockHigh Risk
Potential Harm

Injury, head bumps, or bruising from falling out of hammocks.

Control Measures
  • Hammocks hung low (30cm max)
  • Soft landing area below
  • Teach safe entry/exit
  • One person at a time
Anchor FailureHigh Risk
Potential Harm

Branch breakage, falling, or injury from unsuitable anchor points.

Control Measures
  • Test branches before use
  • Use tree protectors
  • Check ropes for wear
  • Proper knot training
Trip HazardsMedium Risk
Potential Harm

Trips and falls over guy ropes, pegs, and ground lines.

Control Measures
  • Mark guy lines clearly
  • Brief on rope positions
  • Keep setup area tidy
  • Regular walk-throughs
Weather ExposureMedium Risk
Potential Harm

Hypothermia under tarp/hammock or sunburn during setup.

Control Measures
  • Check weather forecast
  • Appropriate clothing layers
  • Monitor for cold signs
  • Sun protection available

This guide covers the most common hazards. Our risk assessment wizard includes 31 hazards and 100+ control measures for Using Tarps and Hammocks, sourced from industry guidance — create your assessment in minutes.

Safety Checklist

Tarps and hammocks safety checklist

Site Assessment

  • Trees/anchors checked
  • Overhead branches safe
  • Ground debris cleared
  • Suitable spacing found

Equipment

  • Ropes inspected
  • Tarps/hammocks clean
  • Tree protectors used
  • Pegs and tensioners

During Setup

  • Knot techniques taught
  • Height kept low
  • Guy lines marked
  • Supervision maintained

After Session

  • Equipment taken down
  • Ropes coiled properly
  • No trace left behind
  • Damage reported

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