Hiking & Hillwalking Risk Assessment Template

Typical hazards & measures

• Wildlife and livestock encounters — Educate group on safe behaviour: stay calm, avoid eye contact, bypass livestock with distance, and leash dogs. Leaders brief on avoiding animal feeding and carry antihistamines and first aid for bites or stings.
• Injury (sprains, blisters, strains) — Encourage correct footwear, pack fitting, and foot care. Carry first aid supplies for sprains, blisters, and cuts. Brief on reporting discomfort early to prevent escalation. Leaders trained in casualty evacuation procedures.
• Heat, dehydration, and sun exposure — Carry enough water, electrolyte packs, hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Encourage regular drinking and reapplication of sun protection. Rest in shade during hottest periods. Leaders monitor for signs of dehydration or heat exhaustion.
• Wild camping / overnight hiking — Train participants in safe tent pitching, stove use, food storage, and waste disposal. Designate toilet areas. Leaders check equipment before trips, maintain buddy systems, and enforce a night check-in process.
• Slips, trips and falls on uneven ground — Require boots with ankle support and grippy soles. Brief on careful footing, especially on steep, wet, or loose ground. Use trekking poles and slow pace where needed. Leaders pre-scout trails, flag hazards, and position themselves at key sections.