Paragliding Risk Assessment Template

Typical hazards & measures

• Safeguarding — Implement and follow safeguarding protocols to protect all participants, especially vulnerable groups such as children or adults with additional needs. Conduct background checks on instructors and ensure proper adult-to-child ratios during any paragliding activity.
• Inadequate qualification/experience — Ensure all instructors have the proper certification and experience levels to guide passengers safely. Regularly refresh skills through advanced courses and attend workshops. Passengers should be briefed thoroughly before the flight to understand basic safety and expectations.
• Collision with birds or wildlife — Avoid known bird migration paths or areas with heavy wildlife activity. Keep a lookout for birds during flight and take evasive action if needed. Fly with caution near cliffs and coastal areas where birds may be nesting.
• Improper launching technique — Ensure correct body positioning during launch. Have an experienced instructor review and guide early launches to reduce improper positioning or rushed techniques. Double-check wing setup and ensure adequate wind conditions for a controlled takeoff.
• Improper landing technique — Practice landings with an instructor, especially in variable wind conditions. Ensure you approach with enough altitude and plan your landing early. Learn emergency landing techniques like the Parachute Landing Fall (PLF) for hard landings.