Outdoor Education Risk Management
An individual Risk Assessment is carried out for every program we run, and with every class / group we take out. If you would like to see a copy, please just ask one of the Outdoor Education staff. Some of the measures we take are outlined below:
Preparation – Being properly prepared, mentally, physically and with the right equipment is the first step in preventing any injury, illness or mishap. Each class / group spends time with Outdoor Education staff, becoming familiar with the program and the required clothing and equipment. Prior to leaving or beginning activities, OED staff check students are properly attired.
Staff spend a lot of time preparing for each program, undertaking tasks such as: inspecting and becoming familiar with venues, evacuation routes and procedures; updating and requalifying certifications; gaining new qualifications; training new / casual staff; familiarising themselves with individual medical and learning needs. Before each program, the college nurse does a medical handover with camp staff – to ensure all medical conditions and medications coming on camp will be managed to the best of our ability.
Monitoring – During a program, OED staff are constantly monitoring students welfare and physical well being, ensuring that the challenge level is appropriate. OED staff check weather updates regularly, liaising with appropriate authorities when required – such as severe weather warnings and fire danger. See Camp Ibis Bushfire Protocol, also OED Bushfire Protocol. Programs may be altered, venues changed, or activities postponed / cancelled if weather conditions make it unsafe.
Response – All OED staff are qualified in Wilderness First Aid, to manage injury and illness in the bush, and deal with the extended time it may take for emergency services to access an individual. Local Police, Parks, Hospitals are informed of our programs where appropriate. In remote programs, all groups carry a satellite phone plus mobile phone, and / or radio to access help and support if required. At least one OED staff is a designated coordinator and has a support vehicle available – usually a 4wd, sometimes a speedboat.
