Rock Climbing (Outdoors) Risk Assessment Template

Typical hazards & measures

• Safeguarding — Ensure all instructors and volunteers have undergone thorough required background checks and have been trained in safeguarding protocols. Establish clear rules for adult supervision ratios and create designated, observable meeting points to ensure no child is left unsupervised. Implement a strict sign-in/sign-out process for participants.
• Overhanging features — When climbing routes with overhangs, teach participants how to properly negotiate them to avoid swings or falls. Keep belays tight when climbers are under or navigating overhangs, and plan rest points after overhangs to reduce fatigue.
• Anchor failure — Double-check all anchors for stability and ensure they are placed in solid rock or natural features capable of holding weight. Use multi-point anchors for added security, distributing the load evenly across multiple points.
• Loose rock — Instructors should assess climbing routes for loose handholds and footholds during their initial setup. Climbers should be instructed to test each handhold carefully before relying on it and avoid pulling on visibly unstable rocks.
• Dehydration — Enforce regular water breaks and provide access to fresh water throughout the activity. Encourage participants to bring personal water bottles and monitor for signs of dehydration, such as dry skin or dizziness.