Stand-up Paddleboarding Risk Assessment Template

Typical hazards & measures

• Night paddling — Implement strict safety protocols for night activities, including the use of appropriate lighting and visibility gear. Train guides in night navigation and emergency response. Limit group sizes and ensure all participants are comfortable with night conditions.
• Wildlife encounters — Inform participants about local wildlife and appropriate behavior around animals. Provide guidelines to minimize disturbances and prevent dangerous interactions. Train staff on handling wildlife encounters safely and responsibly.
• Slippery surfaces — Ensure boarding areas have non-slip surfaces and are free from debris. Regularly clean and maintain entry and exit points to prevent slips. Provide foot protection if necessary and supervise participants during boarding and disembarking.
• Falls from the board — Ensure participants wear appropriate personal flotation devices (PFDs). Provide proper instruction on maintaining balance and how to safely fall into the water. Supervise participants closely and ensure calm water conditions.
• Impaired judgment due to alcohol or drugs — Enforce a strict no-alcohol and no-drug policy for participants and staff. Conduct checks before activities to ensure compliance. Provide clear communication about the dangers of impaired judgment and remove any individuals not adhering to policies.