Rock Climbing (outdoors) Risk Assessment Template

Typical hazards & measures

• Inadequate first aid — Ensure that all instructors are first aid certified, carry complete first aid kits tailored for climbing injuries (rope burns, fractures, head injuries), and have access to emergency contact numbers and evacuation routes.
• Tripping hazards on uneven ground — Identify and clear any obstacles in the area where participants will be moving or preparing to climb. Warn participants of uneven surfaces, tree roots, or loose rocks that could cause tripping, and designate clear walking paths. Ensure participants are sat down when waiting at the top of a climb.
• Unauthorized climbing — Implement strict supervision and ensure no one climbs without instructor oversight. Keep participants engaged with structured activities, and monitor all routes to prevent unsanctioned climbs.
• 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.
• Inadequate participant experience — Assess each participant's climbing ability through practical tests or experience discussions. Provide one-on-one coaching for beginners or less experienced climbers, adjusting the difficulty of routes and climbing techniques accordingly.