High Ropes Course Risk Assessment Template

Typical hazards & measures

• Slips and trips — Assess terrain daily for uneven surfaces, loose gravel, or other hazards. Clear paths to and from the course and guide participants on careful movement. Encourage participants to wear sturdy footwear and avoid running in the activity area.
• Vandalism of the course — Secure the course when not in use with lockable gates and surveillance cameras if possible. Regular checks for tampering or vandalism before each session ensure that no unauthorized changes have been made to the equipment.
• Panic attacks or distress at height — Instructors must be trained to recognize signs of distress and calmly guide participants through evacuation if necessary. Participants should be briefed on self-assessment and encouraged to stop if they feel uncomfortable.
• Fatigue and pressure sores from harness use — Limit session duration and offer breaks to prevent discomfort. Ensure participants wear harnesses with appropriate padding and adjust them for maximum comfort. Monitor participants for signs of fatigue and rotate activities if necessary.
• Communication breakdown in emergencies — Equip instructors with two-way radios for clear communication during emergencies. Establish clear hand signals for situations where verbal communication may not be possible, and conduct regular emergency drills to ensure staff preparedness.