Kayaking/Canoeing Risk Assessment

Typical hazards & measures

• Medical conditions and emergencies — Collect medical information from participants beforehand and ensure necessary medication (e.g., inhalers, epinephrine) is carried and accessible. Instructors should be trained to recognise symptoms and respond quickly, with first aid kits and communication devices on hand. Establish clear emergency procedures and access routes to medical services.
• Inexperienced participants — Start all beginners with basic instruction on paddling, safety, and self-rescue. Offer progressive training to build confidence and skill. Monitor each participant's progression to ensure they aren't overextending themselves.
• Heat and cold exposure — Educate participants on the risks of temperature extremes. Ensure appropriate clothing such as wetsuits, thermal layers, and protective sun gear is worn. Provide shaded rest areas, hydration breaks, and sunblock. Monitor weather conditions and participant wellbeing, adjusting activity intensity and timing as needed. Keep emergency blankets, hot drinks, and cooling strategies available.
• Collisions with boats, paddles, or obstacles — All participants must wear helmets. Brief on safe spacing, paddle awareness, and collision avoidance strategies. Select routes with minimal obstacles for beginners and instruct on navigating shared waters. Instructors should monitor positioning, maintain group control, and adjust course to avoid hazards or other water users.
• Launching kayaks incorrectly — Supervise participants during kayak launch and demonstrate correct techniques. Ensure kayaks are launched away from obstacles, and instructors should assist with stabilizing the kayaks during entry.