Kayaking/Canoeing Risk Assessment Template

Typical hazards & measures

• Overconfidence in abilities — Assess participants’ skill levels prior to activity. Encourage them to start with beginner techniques and progressively move to more advanced skills. Monitor behavior for signs of overconfidence, and intervene when necessary.
• 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.
• Paddling in strong currents — Conduct sessions in calm waters when training youth. For more advanced groups, provide strong paddling technique training and ensure participants have the strength and skill to navigate currents.
• Supervision, group control, and safeguarding — Maintain appropriate instructor-to-participant ratios, with extra supervision for younger or less experienced groups. Conduct thorough safety briefings before activities and reinforce key messages throughout. Use buddy systems, regular headcounts, and clear boundaries. Ensure all staff are vetted and trained in safeguarding procedures, with a designated safeguarding lead in place.
• Getting lost in remote locations — Use a buddy system and provide participants with a clear route. Instructors should carry communication devices, and groups should have a contingency plan in case of disorientation or separation.