Staff manual – 2
Transcription
Staff manual – 2
Úlfljótsvatn Outdoor and Scout Center, Iceland Útilífsmiðstöð skáta Úlfljótsvatni Staff manual – 2 Program training This copy belongs to Úlfljótsvatn Outdoor and Scout Center. Please handle with care, share with others and make sure it is accessible to others. Activities Your role could include leading or assisting with running program activities for guests. So that every activity session may be delivered in a fun, safe and professional way, we have the following pages to guide us. For some parts of this manual, you will need to write things down on a separate piece of paper. 1. Training In order to be allowed to lead or assist on activities, you must read through the information for each activity and for some activities you will also need to undergo practical training, led by senior staff and/or 3rd party trainer. Once you have done your training, an experienced staff member will allow you to monitor them once or twice during a session, so that you may observe how the session is run. For some activities, this will be the end of your formal training. For other activities (i.e. climbing, abseiling, archery, paddling and more) an experienced staff member will monitor you running the activity at least once (maybe several times) before you are signed off and can do so on your own. This is called "shadowing" and is only meant to ensure you have the assistance you might need for the first times, so don't let it stress you out. Depending on training, program staff (and others who run activities) can have two different types of instructor certifications for various activities. The first one is for "assistant" and only exists for some activities. The assistant can help out, even run parts of the activity, but there must always be a lead instructor present, taking full responsibility for the session. The lead instructor cert is available for all activities (for some activities individually, but for others as a bundle certification) and means that the staff member has completed full traning to lead the activity in sessions. A lead instructor is responsible for setting up the activity, running it in a fun, safe and professional manner and then taking the equipment down in the end if needed. The lead instructor is also responsible for loging equipment use. To be a lead instructor, you must be 18 year old or more, finish the respective training and be able to successfully lead an activity in Icelandic and/or English. For some activities additional requirements may apply, such as additional training, certifications, skills, knowledge or experience. For example, to be a lead guide in a hike called "Hiking trail", you must have finished on-site training courses "hike 1" and "hike 2" and be skilled in positioning yourself and navigating using a map, compass and GPS. In addition at least one guide on the trip must have completed a Traveling (Ferðmennska) training course with the Icelandic Search & Rescue Organization (Ice-SAR), one guide must have completed the training course Navigation (Rötun) with Ice-SAR and at least one guide must have a valid Wilderness First Responder certificate. In some cases, similar training courses or a great deal of experience in each field can come replace specific training courses. The requirements for instructors and guides are to be followed without exception. The senior staff keeps records of your training. All previous training you may have completed elsewhere but you feel relevant should also be logged to give a better idea of your skillset. Please notify the senior staff. Training is done in the beginning of each season (individual parts of training may be spread over a longer period). When relevant, you will get a certificate. It is worth noting that if you feel uncertain about any part of your training or work as instructor/guide, you should always voice your concerns with a member of the senior staff. Also, there's no shame in admitting that you don't feel confident with leading or assisting a certain activity. 2. Program sessions Each standard program session with a group is 75 minutes. You can find more information on how sessions are spread out over the day in Staff manual - 1: General information -> 4. Our work -> Shifts and sessions. Let's have a look at what we need to keep in mind when we run a program session: • We begin by going through the "Pre-session checklist" (including a visual inspection of all equipment) and make sure the weather is OK for the session, that all equipment is available and so on. • We show up ready - having eaten, wearing the right clothes for the weather and so on. Running back to the hut to get something, or leaving early because you are cold is very unprofessional and might also cause the session to halt because the number of staff does not meet requirements. • Everything must be ready when the session start. The guests do not come to watch us set up. • The session starts with an introduction. Speak clearly and loud, be lively, engaging and enthusiastic: -Who? -What? -Where? -When? -Why? -How? (My name is Gummi and I'll be your instructor for this session, along with Elín and Inga) (Today we'll do paddling, has anyone done paddling before?) (We'll take the boats out on the lake, but only as far as the buoys.) (We'll start by putting on life vests, then we'll do a safety talk and after that we'll help each one of you to find a boat and get started. If all goes well we'll have about an hour to paddle on the lake.) (This is a great opportunity to learn the basic handling of boats and to challenge yourself to try something you may not have done before, and to have fun!) (Everyone will have a life vest (buoyancy aid) and must keep that on for the whole session. We have different kind of boats; two person canoes, single or two person sit-on-top kayaks, single person closed kayaks and two and four person pedal boats. A safety boat will be on the lake, so if you run into trouble just wave the crew and they'll come over.) • Before the guests start the activity, we must do a safety talk. This is to make sure they understand what not to do, and how to do things in a safe way. Make sure the guests know where they should be, when they should act and what they should do. Give the opportunity to ask questions. • During the session we try to engage all members of the group, i.e. by getting everyone to try and to give roles to those who are waiting their turn. For example, they can cheer the others on, give advice, plan their next steps, help with scorekeeping, timing, safety lookout and so on. Adhere to the "Session schedule". • If we can offer fun and/or educationg facts during the session - all the better. • We are constantly observing the participants and making sure all safety rules are being followed and that the session is being carried out in a safe manner. And that everyone is having fun, as much as we can. • We start to close the session in time, so that once the session time is over, the group is ready to leave the activity site. Before they leave, we offer a small review, thank them for joining us in the session and wish them a good day. • Follow the "Post-session" checklist. After each session you should have approx. 15 minutes to prepare for the next session (unless a mealtime comes inbetween). These 15 minutes are not a break, but allows you to move between activity sites if needed and set up a new activity, reset the activity if you're doing the same activity again or … if you've done all that … take a small breather. If the session is the last one of the day's for that activity, you end by taking the activity down/putting the equipment into appropriate storage. In case you do need to halt a session, for safety reasons or otherwise, contact the program director as soon as possible. Staff members who are not on duty might request the opportunity to assist on an activity session (maybe to get introduced to running the activity or to practice). It is up to the lead instructor for the session to say if this is OK. The extra staff is their responsibility, should not replace allocated staff and must not cause distractions or cause extra work for the instructors. For each on-demand activity session you will do (i.e. not school camps, summer camps and such), an activity sheet will be prepared. You must invite guests to fill out the review-part, then sign the sheet off and give back to the program director. 3. Learning opportunities Activities should not only be fun, they should carry some learning as well and allow guests to try something they may not have done before. To help ensure this happens, let's keep the following in mind when leading an activity session: • A great "place" to learn is on the outer edge of the comfort zone. We do not force anyone to try, but we strongly encourage them to seize the opportunity. • We give compliments, cheers, encouragements and validations for efforts, just as much as for achievements. For example, let's say someone who has no problem with climbing goes all the way to the top of the climbing wall, but the next guest is scared of heights and/or doesn't do too well with the physical aspect of climbing but does manage to climb almost their own height before being lowered down again. We tell them both that they did good, and ask if they enjoyed it. Even with the obvious difference, the achievement may be equal for those two individuals (and even more for the second one). • There is no one way to learn. The variations that can affect how learning is best achieved are so many and change so often, even for the same individual, that the best thing to do is trying to have a broad range. For example, when doing a demontstration in the beginning of an archery session, you can give out instructions three times: 1) Show what to do and explain what you're doing. 2) Show what to do only. 3) Have the group tell you what to do, as if you've never done it before, and follow their instructions. In short, delivering the information in different ways increases the odds of everyone learning what they should be learning. • We try to keep the instructions short and simple (very much unlike this manual) and add to them when needed. As research show people can generally only keep about 7 pieces of information in their short term memory, it's quite obvious that it makes sense to keep activity instructions as short and simple as possible. Also, keep in mind that the information you're giving out are not the only information that people are taking on. There's new environment, group dynamics, the weather, group discussions and so on. So try to divide the information into (let's say) 4-5 bits of instructions, each with a clear focus. Think about what information you NEED to give out in the beginning, and what information you can offer as the group is carrying out the activity. Make a list: What other ways can you think of to make sure that the information is memorable? • In the process of non-formal learning, the greatest learning opportunities lie in the review or reflection that takes part after the activity itself. That's why it's important to squeeze in a short review at the end of each activity. (Sometimes we might do a longer reflection session with a group that has stayed for a couple of days or more, but that's done a little differently.) The purpose of the review is to have the participants doing a small analyzis of what they just did, to be able to learn from the process. Kolb's learning cycle: An easy way to facilitate a quick review is to ask the following three question-groups to the group as a whole: • What? -What happened? Describe the activity. • So what? -How did you do the activity? -What was difficult? Why? How did you tackle that? -What went really well? Why? How did you do that? • Now what? -What did you learn? -Should you/could you/would you do something differently? -Will this activity have any future affect on you? Write down: What other methods could you use to facilitate a reflection after an activity? 4. Equipment Can you imagine how much stuff is needed to run activities at a scout center? We have boats and paddles, live vests, safety boat, oars, on-board motor, auto-belays, harnesses, helmets, abseiling lines, slings, carabiners, belaying tools, a climbing tower, bows, arrows, targets, forarm guards, compasses, GPS's, frisbee discs, colf clubs, obstacle course, water safari, fire bowls, grills, murrikka's, gas stoves, skillets, pots, team building equipment and maps … just to name a few. Every single item of equipment has three things in common: • They cost money • We use them to run activities • If they are missing or damaged, we can not run the activity To make sure the equipment is always in good working order, we must: • Do a visual inspection in the beginning and end of every session/day • Pull damaged, broken equipment aside, label it and notify the program director • Log every use of certain equipment (see form) • Take good care in our use of every item of equipment Part of taking good care of the equipment is to learn to store it properly, always put the equipment away after each use and make sure that broken or damaged equipment gets repaired or taken out of use. For the visual inspection we might, for example, check if all climbing harnesses and helmets show any major wear or tear or if any buckles or straps are missing. If the outer sheathing of an abseiling line has a breach. If the paddles we're going to use have broken blades or the life vests don't have the necessary straps or are severely torn. If the boats leak, are unstable or if the stearing doesn't work. If any of the arrows are broken or if any of the bows have a broken arrow seat. It might also mean to have a quick look over the obstacle course to see if something is broken and if it poses a danger. Some of the gear we must check before or when we are setting up before the session, and others we can do as we hand out equipment or assist guests to carry out the activity. In worst case scenarios you might feel unable to continue with the activity. In that case, contact the program director immediately and ask for advice. The senior staff is responsible for major inspections of all safety equipment, as well as renewal of equipment. Consult with the program director if you have concerns. Get to know the equipment so that you can share your knowledge with other staff members and be able to tell when something is not right. For some equipment (i.e. climbing gear, archery gear and boats and paddles) we log all use. It’s the lead instructor’s responsibility to log each use with date, their name and the number of participants joining in on the activity. If staff members borrow the equipment for training or just to have fun (with the program director’s approval), that must be logged as well. Program activities Each activity has their own training material and special training courses are run for some. For those activities, you need to read the training material before taking a test to pass as an instructor or lead instructor. 5. Climbing Staff requirements: Training requirements: Instructor • "Climbing 1", run by Úlfljótsvatn • Know activity procedures for climbing, as defined by Úlfljótsvatn • Know emergency procedures for climbing, as defined by Úlfljótsvatn • Know how to set up for climbing (the tower), both with auto-belay and top-rope • Having demonstrated knowledge in use and care of climbing equipment • Be confident in belaying • Be able to help run activity in Icelandic and/or English • Be 16 years or older Training requirements: Lead instructor • Same as for instructor, plus: • A valid first-aid certificate • "Climbing 2", run by Úlfljótsvatn • Be 18 years or older Other training courses or experience should be logged into the instructor’s file. Risk assessment: Risk asessment revised in May 2016. (Severity= 1-5 Likelyhood= 1-5) Risk assessment Activity: Climbing Risk Risk description Climbing fall Climber loses grip and falls Fall from top of tower Guest in tower can fall to the ground if i.e. climbing on top of rail Equipment malfunction Equipment malfunction causes accident, i.e. fall or climber gets stuck Preventive actions Use fall protection (harness and belaying) and include instructions in safety talk Lock abseiling gates when not in use, put up warning in tower Routine equipment inspection, routine renewal and/or servicing of equipment, correct storage, correct setup Routine maintenance and inspection of structural and surface parts of tower Damage of tower Lightning Earthquake Structural or surface damage/wear of tower causes danger Lightning hits tower, as it is the highest point of the area Earthquake increases accident risk with vibration or damage to tower May 17 2016 Responsible: Program director Severity Likelyhood Risk factor Actions? 4 3 High Yes 4 2 Medium Yes 4 1 Medium Yes 3 1 Low Yes Lightning rod, don’t use the tower in thunderstorms 4 1 Medium Yes Train staff to react to earthquakes 3 1 Low Yes Actions Activity: Climbing Respons. Preventetive action Risk Program director Climbing fall Program director Fall from tower Program director Equipment failure Grounds keeper Damage to tower Grounds keeper Lightning Program director Earthquake Write and implement procedures on using fall protection and personal protective gear, how to safely set up for climbing and how to deliver safety talk before climbing Write and implement procedures on locking abseiling gates when not in use. Put up warnings in the tower. Write and implement procedures on routine equipment check, servising and renewal, correct storage and setup and frequent visual checks Write and implement procedures on routine checks for structural and surface components of tower Put a lightning rod on the tower, write and implement procedures on not using the tower in thunderstorms. Train staff in correct reactions to earthquakes. Use Úlfljótsvatn’s general emergency plan for earthquakes Risk after action Status Severity Likely hood Risk factor 1. June 2015 Compl. 4 1 Medium 1. June 2016 Active 4 1 Medium 1. June 2015 Compl. 4 1 Medium 1. June 2016 Active 3 1 Low 1. July 2016 Active 4 1 Medium 1. June 2016 Active 3 1 Low Sched. finish Equipment: Equipment used for climbing: Basement, climbing lockers: • Helmets • Climbing/abseiling harnesses • Climbing/abseiling lines (for top-rope climbing) • Bag with carabiners, belaying device, slings and more Office (most often in place in the tower): • Auto-belays (for auto-belay climbing) Additional staff equipment: • Uniform • Radio (at least one) • Mobile phone (at least one) • First aid kit • Activity binder: Climbing • Note: All staff members running this activity must wear helmets. For tope-rope climbing, all staff members must wear a harness. Note: Climbing/abseiling equipment is NOT to be used or taken off site without a permission from the program director Note: All climbing/abseiling equipment use is to be logged. Note: All climbing/abseiling equipment should be labeled and logged on purchase. Log dates for production, purchase and expiration. File name of maker and included reading material (instructions and such) along with a copy of purchasing receipt. Follow general rules on inspection and broken/damaged equipment. DO NOT use broken/damaged/expired safety equipment. Setup - Auto-belay: 1) Lean base boards with holds agains the base of the wall. Use line/rope to secure. 2) Secure a sling to an anchor point on the beam above the wall. 3) Lift auto-belay enough to secure same sling to auto-belay, without lifting it above the handrail. 4) Lift auto-belay up to the beam and use a D-lock to secure it to a different anchor point. 5) Shorten the sling to minimize fall if D-lock fails. 6) Lower retractable safety line from auto-belay and secure to a fixed point at base of wall. 7) Have a colleague do a safety check on all setup. Base boards in place and secured Auto-belay in place and secured Retractable safety line secured Auto-belays are serviced regularly. If there is no plan to use them within the next two weeks, you must end session by taking them down. If you suspect rectractable safety line may be wet, pull it out and allow to dry for 24-48 hours. Harnesses, slings, ropes and other nylon or plastic gear should be allowed to dry well, unbundled, before put back into storage lockers. Setup - Top rope: 1) Lean base boards with holds agains the base of the wall. Use line/rope to secure. 2) Thread climbing line through a fixed semi-circle anchor. 3) Secure a sling to a separate anchor point, with a carabiner on the end. 4) Clip carabiner around climbing line and lock. Keep sling as short as possible. 5) On "guest end" of line, make a double figure eight knot, with a tie-off know. Attach carabiner (triple action if possible). 6) On "belayer end" of line, make a stop knot. 7) Have a colleague do a safety check on all setup. Base boards in place and secured Top rope in place and secured Harnesses, slings, ropes and other nylon or plastic gear should be allowed to dry well, unbundled, before put back into storage lockers. Activity procedure: Minimum age of participants: 6 years (exceptions can be made if responsible adults escort and correct safety equipment is available) Staff/guest ratio (minimum requirement): Auto-belay, 1-10 guests: 1 lead instructor Auto-belay, 11-20 guests: 1 lead instructor + 1 instructor Top-rope, 1-10 guests: Top-rope, 11-20 guests: 1 lead instructor + 1 instructor 1 lead instructor + 2 instructors (Groups over 20 are split into more sessions.) Red flags! Climbing should/can be cancelled by: • Wind in excess of 15 meters pr. Second • Thunderstorm • Very cold conditions • Guest intoxication or similar restrictions in capability • Staff does not meet requirements (training or number of staff) • Equipment does not pass visual inspection • The climbing tower does not pass visual inspection • Appropriate safety equipment not used In doubt? Consult with the program director. Safety zone: The safety zone for climbing is the gravel zone between the tower and the log bench. Guests should not enter that zone unless they are next in line for climbing. Pre-session checklist: o Do a visual inspection of equipment and tower o Check weather/weather forcast o Advice guests on clothing o Review guest numbers and number of instructors o Set up equipment before guests arrive o Have a colleague do a safety check on all setup Participants sitting on bench, waiting their turn Climbing. Session schedule: Time (est.) 2 min What? Introduction 10 min Guests put on harnessess and helmets 3 min Safety talk 50 min Climbing 5 min 5 min Review Guests take off harnesses and helmets How? Greet guests. Who (are you)? What (are we going to do)? Where (will we do it)? -Also: where is the nearest toilet? When (will what happen (order))? Why (is this a great activity)? Staff demonstrates and then assist How (will we do it)? • Safety zone - stay clear! • Safety gear • Wait your turn (sit in a line) • Use legs, butt close to wall • Not a requirement to go all the way • Visually inspect every harness as it is clipped in. Does it fit? Is it safe? • No stepping on climbing lines! • Respect safety zone! • Keep line slack as short as possible • Encourage guests to give climbers good advice and encouragement • Monitor safety on-site at all times "What? So what? Now what?" Collect in one place Thank guests for the session and say goodbye Total: 75 minutes Post-session checklist (if "take down"): o If auto-belay: Release carabiner so that line retracts. If needed, take auto-belay down. o If top-rope: Remove climbing lines as well as slings and carabiners at anchor points. o Remove base boards. o Move all equipment to storage. Dry if needed, make ready for next use. o Label and put aside broken or damaged equipment. Notify program director. o Refill first-aid kits if needed. o Return accident reports to program director/general manager, if any. Additional information: Emergency procedures: • Emergency plan: Accidents • Emergency plan: Rescue from climbing tower • Emergency plan: Malfunction/damage in equipment/tower without injury to people Suitable guest clothing/equipment: • Guests must be prepared for standing still for 75 minutes in today's weather. Keep in mind that the top of the tower will be colder and windier than the base of it. • Tight shoes with stiff soles are best for climbing. • Clothes must allow for movement. Equipment checking: All safety equipment should be checked at least twice each year, at the beginning and end of the summer season. The program director is responsible for this inspeciton. We are looking for: • Expired equipment • Broken/damaged equipment • Equipment where wear and tear is starting to comprimise safe use of equipment • Equipment that can be easily fixed/updated Note: Auto-belays should be maintenanced every year. As they have to be shipped overseas to do so, mid-winter is the best time to do so. In addition, for each session the lead instructor is responsible for a visual inspection. For climbing this includes: • Checking if the tower looks safe. Are there any broken boards? Are wires loose or attached? • Checking if anchor points and beam look solid and intact. • Checking if harnesses have all buckles and straps in place and show no more than minimal wear and tear. • Checking if all helmets are solid (without cracks), with necessary straps and buckles and can be adjusted for size. • Checking if auto-belays/semi-circle anchors, slings and metal gear look functional and not damaged. • Checking that climbing lines do not show excessive wear and tear, for example a torn sheath. Note: All climbing lines have a fall-rate. That is, the number of falls they can take before they need to be replaced. However, the falls that are used as guideline in that rating are pretty nasty (fall factor 1.77). Imagine you are at the top of the 10 m tall wall, in a top-rope, and you fall half way down the tower before the belayer stops you, that is only an 0.66 factor. Fall factor is the distance fallen divided by the length of climbing rope between the climber and the belayer. To achieve 1.77 you need to fall 10 meters, but only have a 5.65 m rope. In other words, the belayer would needed to have been just above half the wall, with the rope going through a carabiner just above him, and not at the top of the wall. So whenever we minimize the length of the fall, we add to the lifespan of the rope. Note: Climbing equipment that is taken out of use for safety reason but not discarded of (for example still used for other non-safety use) must be easily recognized as retired from safety-use. Equipment renewal: Check manufactors' advice. Here are some rule of thumbs, based on equipment use at Úlfljótsvatn: • Helmets: Up to 5 years of use from manufactoring date.* • Climbing/abseiling ropes: Up to 2 years from first use.* • Climbing/abseiling harnesses and other nylons: Up to 4 years from first use.* *Less if damaged, broken or wear and tear is excessive. Also, stop use if equipment suffers a great fall or is hit with a great force. Helpful guide to determine conditions of climbing ropes: Content of training courses: • Climbing 1: -Equipment: Introduction, storage, logging and drying -Setting up for a climbing session, using auto-belay -Setting up for a climbing session, using top-rope -Setting up for abseiling session -Safety -Visual inspections: Harness, helmets • Climbing 2: -Leading activities (responsibilities, checklists, session schedule and talking to guests) -Visual inspections: Tower, ropes, auto-belays -Practice setup (top-rope, auto-belay and abseiling) -Rescue -Session schedules -Belaying techniques (on-ground, from above) Note: All participants on training courses should have read the relevant chapter in this manual, as well as relevant emergency plans. 6. Abseiling Staff requirements: Training requirements: Instructor • "Climbing 1", run by Úlfljótsvatn • Know activity procedures for abseiling, as defined by Úlfljótsvatn • Know emergency procedures for abseiling, as defined by Úlfljótsvatn • Know how to set up for abseiling (the tower) and how to secure guests at top level • Having demonstrated knowledge in use and care of abseiling equipment • Be confident in belaying and rescuing • Be able to help run activity in Icelandic and/or English • Be 16 years or older Training requirements: Lead instructor • Same as for instructor, plus: • A valid first-aid certificate • "Climbing 2", run by Úlfljótsvatn • Be 18 years or older Other training courses or experience should be logged into the instructor’s file. Risk assessment: Risk asessment revised in May 2016. (Severity= 1-5 Likelyhood= 1-5) Risk assessment Activity: Climbing Risk Risk description Abseiling fall Abseiler loses grip and falls Fall from top of tower Guest in tower can fall to the ground if i.e. climbing on top of rail Equipment malfunction Equipment malfunction causes accident, i.e. fall or climber gets stuck Preventive actions Use fall protection (harness and 2nd party belaying) and include instructions in safety talk Lock abseiling gates when not in use, put up warning in tower Routine equipment inspection, routine renewal and/or servicing of equipment, correct storage, correct setup Routine maintenance and inspection of structural and surface parts of tower Damage of tower Lightning Earthquake Structural or surface damage/wear of tower causes danger Lightning hits tower, as it is the highest point of the area Earthquake increases accident risk with vibration or damage to tower May 17 2016 Responsible: Program director Severity Likelyhood Risk factor Actions? 4 3 High Yes 4 2 Medium Yes 4 1 Medium Yes 3 1 Low Yes Lightning rod, don’t use the tower in thunderstorms 4 1 Medium Yes Train staff to react to earthquakes 3 1 Low Yes Actions Activity: Climbing Respons. Preventetive action Risk Program director Abseiling fall Program director Fall from tower Program director Equipment failure Grounds keeper Damage to tower Grounds keeper Lightning Program director Earthquake Write and implement procedures on using fall protection and personal protective gear, how to safely set up for abseiling and how to deliver safety talk before abseiling Write and implement procedures on locking abseiling gates when not in use. Put up warnings in the tower. Write and implement procedures on routine equipment check, servising and renewal, correct storage and setup and frequent visual checks Write and implement procedures on routine checks for structural and surface components of tower Put a lightning rod on the tower, write and implement procedures on not using the tower in thunderstorms. Train staff in correct reactions to earthquakes. Use Úlfljótsvatn’s general emergency plan for earthquakes Risk after action Status Severity Likely hood Risk factor 1. June 2015 Compl. 4 1 Medium 1. June 2016 Active 4 1 Medium 1. June 2015 Compl. 4 1 Medium 1. June 2016 Active 3 1 Low 1. July 2016 Active 4 1 Medium 1. June 2016 Active 3 1 Low Sched. finish Equipment: Equipment used for abseiling Basement, climbing lockers: • Helmets • Climbing/abseiling harnesses • Climbing/abseiling lines (two for each gate) • Bag with carabiners, belaying device, slings and more • Gloves for guests and staff Additional staff equipment: • Uniform • Radio (at least one) • Mobile phone (at least one) • First aid kit • Activity binder: Abseiling • Note: All staff members running this activity must wear helmets. Belayers at top of towers must be secured to the tower via a sling at all times when gates are open. Note: Climbing/abseiling equipment is NOT to be used or taken off site without a permission from the program director Note: All climbing/abseiling equipment use is to be logged. Note: All climbing/abseiling equipment should be labeled and logged on purchase. Log dates for production, purchase and expiration. File name of maker and included reading material (instructions and such) along with a copy of purchasing receipt. Follow general rules on inspection and broken/damaged equipment. DO NOT use broken/damaged/expired safety equipment. Setup (for each gate): 1) For the main-rope, lower down one end until reaches ground. 2) Attach a large carabiner to anchor point. Tie a Munter hitch onto the carabiner and tie it off. 3) Using another anchor point, tie off loose end of climbing rope, using a double figure eight knot and a carabiner. 4) Attach a carabiner to the third anchor point. (Or use a sling around beam, close to Munter hitch.) 5) Using a short rope, double figure eight knots and carabiners, create an anchor point for belaying. 6) Attach a figure eight belaying device to the anchor you made. 7) Thread the backup line through the carabiner in (4), and through the belaying device. Secure the line by "putting the brakes on the figure eight device". 8) With a sling, make an attachment point for yourself to the tower. You must be able to safely belay and look down the wall. 9) Have a colleague do a safety check on all setup. Anchor point for belaying Whole setup - overview Anchor points for abseiling (Munter hitch on the left, double eight on the right) and carabiner for belaying line (in the middle) Note: This setup may take more than 15 minutes! Adjust starting time accordingly. Harnesses, slings, ropes and other nylon or plastic gear should be allowed to dry well, unbundled, before put back into storage lockers. Note: This is up-side-down. Activity procedure: Minimum age of participants: 6 years (exceptions can be made if responsible adults escort and correct safety equipment is available) Staff/guest ratio (minimum requirement): 1-10 guests, one gate: 1 lead instructor 11-20 guests, two gates: 2 lead instructors When possible, at least one instructor should be at base of tower to control access to tower and help. (Groups over 20 are split into more sessions.) Red flags! Climbing should/can be cancelled by: • Wind in excess of 15 meters pr. Second • Thunderstorm • Very cold conditions • Guest intoxication or similar restrictions in capability • Staff does not meet requirements (training or number of staff) • Equipment does not pass visual inspection • The climbing tower does not pass visual inspection • Appropriate safety equipment not used In doubt? Consult with the program director. Safety zone: There are two safety zones for abseiling. One is the gravel area at the base of the abseiling wall, where nobody should walk. The other is the top level of the tower. Guests are NOT allowed to enter that level until an instructor tells them to, Pre-session checklist: o Do a visual inspection of equipment and tower o Check weather/weather forcast o Advice guests on clothing o Review guest numbers and number of instructors o Set up equipment before guests arrive o Have a colleague do a safety check on all setup Session schedule: Time (est.) 2 min What? Introduction 10 min Guests put on harnessess and helmets 3 min Safety talk 50 min Abseiling 5 min Review 5 min Guests take off harnesses and helmets How? Greet guests. Who (are you)? What (are we going to do)? Where (will we do it)? -Also: where is the nearest toilet? When (will what happen (order))? Why (is this a great activity)? Staff demonstrates and then assist How (will we do it)? • Safety zones - stay clear! • Long hair tied off! • Safety gear • Wait your turn - instructor will call. • Only one guest pr. instructor at top. • How to position yourself on the wall • How to release the belaying device and hand it to the next guest • Respect safety zone! • Everyone at top level of tower MUST be clipped in when gates are opened • Visually inspect every harness as it is clipped in. Does it fit? Is it safe? • Give directions and encouragements to each guest - Space between legs - 90° angle and all of the sole - Never let go of brake hand • Keep backup line slack as short as possible • Call for next guest when the previous one is half-way down • Monitor safety on-site at all times • Lock gates before goint down to review with guests "What? So what? Now what?" Collect in one place Thank guests for the session and say goodbye Total: 75 minutes Post-session checklist: o Lock gates (always when leaving the top floor!) If "take down": o Take equipment down. o Move all equipment to storage. Dry if needed, make ready for next use. o Label and put aside broken or damaged equipment. Notify program director. o Refill first-aid kits if needed. o Return accident reports to program director/general manager, if any. Additional information: Emergency procedures: • Emergency plan: Accidents • Emergency plan: Rescue from climbing tower • Emergency plan: Malfunction/damage in equipment/tower without injury to people Suitable guest clothing/equipment: • Guests must be prepared for standing still for 75 minutes in today's weather. Keep in mind that the top of the tower will be colder and windier than the base of it. • Gloves with good grip are handy. • Clothes must allow for movement. Equipment checking: All safety equipment should be checked at least twice each year, at the beginning and end of the summer season. The program director is responsible for this inspeciton. We are looking for: • Expired equipment • Broken/damaged equipment • Equipment where wear and tear is starting to comprimise safe use of equipment • Equipment that can be easily fixed/updated Note: Auto-belays should be maintenanced every year. As they have to be shipped overseas to do so, mid-winter is the best time to do so. In addition, for each session the lead instructor is responsible for a visual inspection. For climbing this includes: • Checking if the tower looks safe. Are there any broken boards? Are wires loose or attached? • Checking if anchor points and beam look solid and intact. • Checking if harnesses have all buckles and straps in place and show no more than minimal wear and tear. • Checking if all helmets are solid (without cracks), with necessary straps and buckles and can be adjusted for size. • Checking if slings and metal gear look functional and not damaged. • Checking that climbing lines do not show excessive wear and tear, for example a torn sheath. Note: All climbing lines have a fall-rate. That is, the number of falls they can take before they need to be replaced. However, the falls that are used as guideline in that rating are pretty nasty (fall factor 1.77). Imagine you are at the top of the 10 m tall wall, in a top-rope, and you fall half way down the tower before the belayer stops you, that is only an 0.66 factor. Fall factor is the distance fallen divided by the length of climbing rope between the climber and the belayer. To achieve 1.77 you need to fall 10 meters, but only have a 5.65 m rope. In other words, the belayer would needed to have been just above half the wall, with the rope going through a carabiner just above him, and not at the top of the wall. So whenever we minimize the length of the fall, we add to the lifespan of the rope. Note: Climbing equipment that is taken out of use for safety reason but not discarded of (for example still used for other non-safety use) must be easily recognized as retired from safety-use. Equipment renewal: Check manufactors' advice. Here are some rule of thumbs, based on equipment use at Úlfljótsvatn: • Helmets: Up to 5 years of use from manufactoring date.* • Climbing/abseiling ropes: Up to 2 years from first use.* • Climbing/abseiling harnesses and other nylons: Up to 4 years from first use.* *Less if damaged, broken or wear and tear is excessive. Also, stop use if equipment suffers a great fall or is hit with a great force. Content of training courses: • Climbing 1: -Equipment: Introduction, storage, logging and drying -Setting up for a climbing session, using auto-belay -Setting up for a climbing session, using top-rope -Setting up for abseiling session -Session schedules -Safety -Belaying techniques (on-ground, from above) -Visual inspections: Harness, helmets • Climbing 2: -Leading activities (responsibilities, checklists, session schedule and talking to guests) -Visual inspections: Tower, ropes, auto-belays -Practice setup (top-rope, auto-belay and abseiling) -Rescue Note: All participants on training courses should have read the relevant chapter in this manual, as well as relevant emergency plans. 7. Boats Staff requirements: Training requirements: Instructor • "Boats 1", run by Úlfljótsvatn • Know activity procedures for paddling, as defined by Úlfljótsvatn • Know emergency procedures for paddling, as defined by Úlfljótsvatn • Know how to set up for paddling activities and how to operate the safety boat and rescue from lake • Having demonstrated knowledge in use and care of boats • Be confident in paddling and swimming • Be familiar with main names of places around the activity area • Be able to help run activity in Icelandic and/or English • Be 16 years or older Training requirements: Lead instructor • Same as for instructor, plus: • A valid first-aid certificate • "Boats 2", run by Úlfljótsvatn • Know how to use a 2 way radio • Be 18 years or older Other training courses or experience should be logged into the instructor’s file. Risk assessment: Risk asessment revised in May 2016. (Severity= 1-5 Likelyhood= 1-5) Risk assessment Activity: Boats/paddling Risk Preventive actions Routine boat check Leaking boat Risk description Water leaks into boat, due to damage, malfunction, overloading or careless use Paddles/oars are lost on the lake Guest loses oars/paddles and can not row or paddle Man overboard Guest lands in the lake Sickness Guest sufferes from acute sickness on the lake Boat capsizes Boat capsizes, guests go into the lake and/or under the boat Guest is hit by propeller Propeller of safety boat causes injury to people Drowning Fluid blocks airway, leading to loss of consiousness and finally death Boat drifts away Guests can not control boat, i.e. due to weather, lack of experience or loss of palddles/oars Something gets stuck in propeller Safety boat stops due to something getting stuck or damages propeller Rowboats: Note with emergency phone numbers Other boats: Active watch on the lake from land and safety boat All guests should wear life vests. Active watch on the lake from land and safety boat All guests should wear life vests. Active watch on the lake from land and safety boat. Take guest to land and administer first aid. Correct boat use and reaction is included in safety talk. All guests should wear life vests. Active watch on the lake from land and safety boat. Safety rules for motor boats followed. Engine killed during rescue. Staff trained in rescue and first aid. All guests should wear life vests. Active watch on the lake from land and safety boat. Staff trained in rescue and first aid. Active watch on the lake from land and safety boat. Red flags for boat use include weather conditions. Safety rules for motor boats followed. Active watch from safety boats to monitor other boats, people and bottom of lake. May 17 2016 Responsible: Program director Severity Likelyhood Risk factor Actions? 3 2 Medium Yes 3 1 Low Yes 3 2 Medium Yes 2 1 Low Yes 4 2 Medium Yes 4 2 Medium Yes 5 1 Medium Yes 2 3 Medium Yes 2 1 Low Yes Actions Activity: Boats/paddling Respons. Preventetive action Risk Program director Leaking boat Program director Paddles/oars are lost on the lake Program director Man overboard Program director Sickness Program director Boat capsizes Program director Guest is hit by propeller Program director Drowning Program director Boat drifts away Program director Something gets stuck in propeller Write and implement procedures on routine checks for boats. Stop using boats if likely to leak (or a leak is found), until leak has been prevented Write and implement procedures: Tell guests how important it is not to lose their oars/paddles. Keep extra paddles in safety boat. Active watch from land and safety boat. Write and implement procedures: All guests must wear life vests. Visual inspection before guest enters boat. Active watch from land and safety boat. Write and implement procedures: All guests must wear life vests. Visual inspection before guest enters boat. Active watch from land and safety boat. Write and implement procedures: Include in safety talk the correct use of each boat and how to avoid capsize. All guests must wear life vests. Active watch from land and safety boat. Write and implement procedures: Follow safety rules for motor boats. Kill engine during rescue. Write and implement procedures: All guests must wear life vests. Visual inspection before guest enters boat. Active watch from land and safety boat. Staff trained in rescue and first aid. Write and implement procedures: Active watch from land and safety boat. Red flags for boating/paddling include weather conditions. Write and implement procedures: Active watch from land and safety boat. Safety rules for motor boats followed. Equipment: Equipment used for boat rental/paddling Boat house: • Kayaks (different types) • Canoes • Paddles • Pedal boats • Safety boat with motor, paddles/oars and fuel tank • Life line • Life vests Risk after action Status Severity Likely hood Risk factor 1. June 2015 Compl. 3 1 Low 1. June 2015 Compl. 3 1 Low 1. June 2015 Compl. 3 2 Medium 1. June 2015 Compl. 2 1 Low 1. June 2015 Compl. 4 1 Medium 1. June 2015 Compl. 4 1 Medium 1. June 2015 Compl. 5 1 Medium 1. June 2015 Compl. 2 1 Low 1. June 2015 Compl. 2 1 Low Sched. finish Additional staff equipment: • Uniform • Radio (at least one) • Mobile phone (at least one) • First aid kit • Activity binder: Boats • Note: All staff members running this activity must wear life vests. Note: Boats are NOT to be used or taken off site without a permission from the program director Note: All boat/paddling equipment use is to be logged. Note: All boats and paddling equipment should be labeled and logged on purchase. Log dates for production, purchase and expiration. File name of maker and included reading material (instructions and such) along with a copy of purchasing receipt. Follow general rules on inspection and broken/damaged equipment. DO NOT use broken/damaged/expired safety equipment. Setup: 1) Depending on what kind of activity, get correct number of boats out. LEAVE PADDLES INSIDE. 2) Make sure the safety boat is in working order, enough fuel on the tank, lifeline present and the motor is working. 3) Put oars/paddles into safety boat. Also a spare pair! Note: This setup may take more than 15 minutes! Adjust starting time accordingly. Activity procedure: Minimum age of participants: 8 years (exceptions can be made if responsible adults escort and correct safety equipment is available) Staff/guest ratio (minimum requirement) for basic paddling / boat rental: 1-10 guests: 1 lead instructor in land + 1 instructor on safety boat 11-30 guests: 1 lead instructor in land + 2 instructors on safety boat 31-70 guests: 1 lead instructor and 1 instructor in land + 2 instructors on safety boat (Groups over 60-70 are split into more sessions.) Staff/guest ratio (minimum requirement) for guided paddling tours: 1-10 guests: 1 lead instructor on safety boat + 1 instructor paddling 11-40 guests: 1 lead instructor and 1 instructor on safety boat + 1-2 instructors paddling (Groups over 40 are split into more sessions.) Red flags! Climbing should/can be cancelled by: • Wind in excess of 10 meters pr. second (white waves are seen on lake) • Thunderstorm • Lake is covered with ice (fully or partially) • Fog • Darkness • Guest intoxication or similar restrictions in capability • Staff does not meet requirements (training or number of staff) • Equipment does not pass visual inspection • Appropriate safety equipment not used In doubt? Consult with the program director. Safety zone: A safety zone is marked by boueys. Do not allow guests to paddle outside that zone unless the weather and water conditions are good. When leading a guided tour, staying close to land offers added safety in case of i.e. multiple capsise. Pre-session checklist: o Do a visual inspection of boats and safety boat o Check weather/weather forcast o Advice guests on clothing o Review guest numbers and number of instructors o Set up equipment before guests arrive o Have a colleague do a safety check on all setup Note: For gudied paddling tours, guests should be aware that a decent physical condition is needed to complete the tour. Session schedule: Time (est.) 2 min What? Introduction 10 min Guests put on life vests 3 min Safety talk 50 min Paddling 5 min Review How (will we do it)? • Safety zone - stay within! • Safety gear • How to paddle (correct hand position for different paddles and how to turn) • Why is it so important not to lose the paddle/oar? • How to avoid capsizing • How to react if fall in the water • Safety boat • Nobody on the lake until safety boat is out! • Don’t litter! • Bring paddles out • Respect safety zone! • Everyone MUST wear a life vest • Safety boat crew constantly monitors all boats • In land instructor assists guests in choosing boats, and helps them to start "What? So what? Now what?" 5 min Guests take of life vests and hang them back up Thank guests for the session and say goodbye Total: 75 minutes Note: Guided paddling tours have different schedules, depending on tours. How? Greet guests. Who (are you)? What (are we going to do)? Where (will we do it)? -Also: where is the nearest toilet? When (will what happen (order))? Why (is this a great activity)? Staff demonstrates and then assist Post-session checklist: o COUNT BOATS. Have all boats come back? o Check all life vests are in correct place. o Put all oars and paddles into boat house and lock. o Pull safety boat up, move fuel tank and deadman into boathouse. If "take down": o Put canoes and kayaks in correct place. o Lock all boats, as possible. o Refill fuel tank if needed. o Label and put aside broken or damaged equipment. Notify program director. o Refill first-aid kits if needed. o Return accident reports to program director/general manager, if any. Additional information: Emergency procedures: • Emergency plan: Accidents • Emergency plan: Hypothermia • Emergency plan: Man overboard • Emergency plan: Lost individual • Emergency plan: Boat pulling Suitable guest clothing/equipment: • Guests must be prepared for being outside for 75 minutes in today's weather. Keep in mind that the temperature down by the lake can be lower than at the campsite, and winds stronger. Also note that guests will likely be hit by water splash and may have wet seats. • Splash or water proof clothes can be good. • Clothes must allow for movement. Equipment checking: All safety equipment should be checked at least twice each year, at the beginning and end of the summer season. The program director is responsible for this inspeciton. We are looking for: • Expired equipment • Broken/damaged equipment • Equipment where wear and tear is starting to comprimise safe use of equipment • Equipment that can be easily fixed/updated Note: Safety boats and motors are to be inspected every year. In addition, for each session the lead instructor is responsible for a visual inspection. For paddling this includes: • Checking if the boats leak, seats are broken or steering (where available) is working. • Checking if safety boat is in working order. • Checking if all guests are wearing their life vests correctly. Equipment renewal: When no longer usable. Content of training courses: • Boats 1: -Equipment: Introduction, storage, logging and drying -Setting up for a paddling/boat session -Safety -Safety boat (learn to drive and rescue) -Visual inspections: Boats, vests, paddles • Climbing 2: -Leading activities (responsibilities, checklists, session schedule and talking to guests) -Visual inspections: Safety boat -Session schedules -Rescue practice -Group control -Paddle/sail across lake, land, hike to Skinnhúfuhellir Note: All participants on training courses should have read the relevant chapter in this manual, as well as relevant emergency plans. 8. Archery Staff requirements: Training requirements: Instructor • "Archery 1", run by Úlfljótsvatn • Know activity procedures for archery, as defined by Úlfljótsvatn • Know emergency procedures for archery, as defined by Úlfljótsvatn • Know how to set up for archery, both indoors and outdoors • Having demonstrated knowledge in use and care of archery equipment • Be able to help run activity in Icelandic and/or English • Be 16 years or older Training requirements: Lead instructor • Same as for instructor, plus: • A valid first-aid certificate • "Archery 2", run by Úlfljótsvatn • Be 18 years or older Other training courses or experience should be logged into the instructor’s file. Risk assessment: Risk asessment revised in May 2016. (Severity= 1-5 Likelyhood= 1-5) Risk assessment Activity: Archery Risk Risk description Injury from arrow Guest is injured by an arrow Preventive actions Guests can not cross shooting line without permission and that arrows and bows should never be pointed towards other people Include in safety talk how guests should retreive their arrows from the side Offer guests to wear forarm guards Routine equipment check and renew outdated or broken equipment Red flag thunderstorms for archery Guest walks into an arrow standing from a target, hitting them in the eye String hits forarm when released Eye injury Bruised arm Equipment malfunction Equipment malfunction causes injury Lightning risk Lightning hits on outdoor range Actions Activity: Archery Respons. Preventetive action Risk Program director Injury from arrow Program director Eye injury Program director Bruised arm Program director Equipment malfunction Program director Lightning risk May 17 2016 Responsible: Program director Severity Likelyhood Risk factor Actions? 4 3 High Yes 4 2 Medium Yes 1 3 Low Yes 2 2 Low Yes 4 1 Medium Yes Write and implement safety procedures: Include in safety talk that guests can not cross shooting line without permission and that arrows and bows should never be pointed towards other people Write and implement safety procedures: Include in safety talk how guests should retreive their arrows from the side Write and implement safety procedures: Offer guests to wear forarm guards Write and implement safety procedures: Routine equipment check and renew outdated or broken equipment Write and implement safety procedures: Red flag thunderstorms for archery Risk after action Status Severity Likely hood Risk factor 1. June 2015 Compl. 4 1 Medium 1. June 2015 Compl. 4 1 Low 1. June 2015 Compl. 1 2 Low 1. June 2015 Compl. 2 1 Low 1. June 2015 Compl. 4 1 Medium Sched. finish Equipment: Equipment used for archery: Basement, archery lockers: • Bows (small and big, also for left-handed people) • Arrows in arrow-carriers • Forarm-guards • Toolbox with target pins, balloons, extra arrow seats, sights and more • Arrow-holders • Bow-holders • Targets Additional staff equipment: • Uniform • Radio (at least one) • Mobile phone (at least one) • First aid kit • Activity binder: Archery Note: Archery equipment is NOT to be used or taken off site without a permission from the program director Note: All archery equipment use is to be logged. Note: All archery equipment should be labeled and logged on purchase. Log dates for production, purchase and expiration. File name of maker and included reading material (instructions and such) along with a copy of purchasing receipt. Follow general rules on inspection and broken/damaged equipment. DO NOT use broken/damaged/expired safety equipment. Setup: 1) (If indoors): Make sure the safety curtain is in the right position. Lock the South Door and tie off. 2) Put target dials in place, by target line, and put targets on them. Target's center should be close to 130 cm from ground. 3) Make sure shooting line and waiting line are visable. 4) Place arrow-holders and bow-holders on the shooting line. Depending on number of participants do not use more than 45 stations for each target. Each station needs to be at least 80 cm wide. 5) Put 3 arrows in each arrow-holder and one bow in each bow-holder. Additional bows and arrows are put somewhere they don't tempt the guests too much, but are accessible at all times. 6) Put chairs for the guests BEHIND the waiting line. 7) Have the forarm guards ready. Archery stations, at least 80 cm apart. Correct setup and pose. Notice feet on opposite side of the shooting line. Retrieveing arrows, from the side. Please allow equipment to dry before baging/storing. Activity procedure: Minimum age of participants: 8 years (exceptions can be made if responsible adults escort and assists) Staff/guest ratio (minimum requirement): 1-10 guests: 1 lead instructor 11-20 guests: 1 lead instructor + 1 instructor (can be replaced by teacher/leader for group control) (Groups over 20 are split into more sessions.) Note: During walk-in sessions (i.e. for the campsite), the number of instructors may need to increase to keep control over the group. Red flags! Climbing should/can be cancelled by: • Outdoors: Wind in excess of 10 meters pr. second (can vary for wind direction and group) • Outdoors: Thunderstorm • Guest intoxication or similar restrictions in capability • Staff does not meet requirements (training or number of staff) • Staff is not able to secure range • Equipment does not pass visual inspection • Appropriate safety equipment not used In doubt? Consult with the program director. Safety zone: All guests should stay behind the waiting line, unless the ones shooting. Danger zone is between targets and shooting line, as well as behind targets and to the sides. No guest is allowed to enter the safety zone or the danger zone with out permission from the lead instructor. This is vital, and if breached the lead instructors must shout: STOP, STOP, STOP, BOWS DOWN! Or similar. Pre-session checklist: o Do a visual inspection of equipment and range o Check weather/weather forcast (if outdoors) o Advice guests on clothing (if outdoors or during winter) o Review guest numbers and number of instructors o Set up equipment before guests arrive o Warm up the indoor range if needed Session schedule: Time (est.) 2 min What? Introduction 5 min Put on forarm guards 6 min Safety talk 50 min Archery 5 min Review 2 min Guests take off forarm guards Total: 75 minutes How? Greet guests. Who (are you)? What (are we going to do)? Where (will we do it)? -Also: where is the nearest toilet? When (will what happen (order))? Why (is this a great activity)? Staff demonstrates and then assist How (will we do it)? • Safety zone and danger zone - stay clear unless told otherwise! • Bow and arrow • Shooting and retrieving commands • Shooting technique, one foot across line, NEVER point arrow to other than target • How to retrieve arrows • Divide into groups, depending on number of stations • Call first group, those not shooting must stay behind waiting lnie • Command to shoot. Assist if needed. • Command to retrieve. • Change arhcers. • Once all have tried, try competition between groups or a game (such as balloons) • ALWAYS keep full attention on safety "What? So what? Now what?" Collect in one yellow bag Post-session checklist: o Put arrows in big holder, always remove arrows if staff is not present. If "take down": o Take equipment down. o Move all equipment to storage. Dry if needed, make ready for next use. o Label and put aside broken or damaged equipment. Notify program director. o Refill first-aid kits if needed. o Return accident reports to program director/general manager, if any. Additional information: Emergency procedures: • Emergency plan: Accidents Suitable guest clothing/equipment: • Outside or winter: Guests must be prepared for standing still for 75 minutes in today's weather. Keep in mind that the top of the tower will be colder and windier than the base of it. Equipment checking: All safety equipment should be checked at least twice each year, at the beginning and end of the summer season. The program director is responsible for this inspeciton. We are looking for: • Strings with more than 3 threads torn apart • Bows with cracks or breaks • Broken arrow seats (can be replaced) • Arrows that are bent, broken without tips or have torn or missing feathers • Forarm guards with straps that don't work as they should • Target dials that show more than acceptible wear and tear In addition, for each session the lead instructor is responsible for a visual inspection, looking for the same things, in addition to: • Range being visable, easily understood and safe. Equipment renewal: When equipment is no longer usable. Content of training courses: • Archery 1: -Equipment: Introduction, storage, logging and drying -Setting up for an archery session -Session schedules -Safety -Shooting technique -Visual inspections: Bows, arrows and forarm guards • Archery 2: -Leading activities (responsibilities, checklists, session schedule and talking to guests) -Visual inspections: Range, targets -Practice setup -Games -Practice safety talk Note: All participants on training courses should have read the relevant chapter in this manual, as well as relevant emergency plans. 9. Hikes (3 hours or more, guided hikes - summer only) Staff requirements: Training requirements: Instructor • "Hiking 1", run by Úlfljótsvatn • Know activity procedures for hiking, as defined by Úlfljótsvatn • Know emergency procedures for hiking, as defined by Úlfljótsvatn • Have basic navigating skills (compass, map, GPS) • Understand the need for calorie and water intake while hiking • Know how to monitor hiker's conditions • Be an experienced hiker in good physicals shape • Be able to help run activity in Icelandic and/or English • Be 16 years or older Training requirements: Lead instructor • Same as for instructor, plus: • A valid first-aid certificate • "Hiking 2", run by Úlfljótsvatn • Be 18 years or older • MUST be familiar with route In addition, every trip must be lead by at least one instructor with the following: • Traveling by SL (Ferðamennska) or similar • Navigating by SL (Rötun) or similar In addition, when the group will at some point be more than 2 hours away from ALS: •Wilderness First Responder or similar Note: When guiding a group that has leaders/teachers, only one guide is provided by Úlfljótsvatn, regardless of group size. Extra guides can be booked. Risk assessment: Risk asessment revised in May 2016. (Severity= 1-5 Likelyhood= 1-5) Risk assessment Activity: Hike Risk Risk description Getting lost Hikers get lost, either the whole group or individuals Injury on route Accident happens on route that causes injury, i.e. twisted ankles, burn or fall Hypothermia Hikers get hypothermia due to cold while hiking or waiting for help Preventive actions Make and leave a travel plan. Introduce the route to guests, offer status monitoring by Úlfljótsvatn Urge hikers to look where they put their feet down and be careful. Reduce use of hazardous objects like stoves and knifes. Staff trained in first aid. Make sure hikers are dressed to deal with the weather, monitor hikers’ wellbeing Actions Activity: HIke Respons. Preventetive action Risk Program director Getting lost Program director Injury on route Program director Hypothermia May 17 2016 Responsible: Program director Severity Likelyhood Risk factor Actions? 2 2 Low Yes 3 2 Medium Yes 3 2 Medium Yes Write and implement safety procedures, create route map for guests to fill out. Make sure staff is trained in navigating and know the way Write and implement safety procedures: Train staff in first aid. Make activity description. Write and implement safety procedures: Train staff, monitor group’s equipment. Risk after action Status Severity Likely hood Risk factor 1. June 2016 Active 2 1 Low 1. June 2015 Compl. 3 2 Medium 1. June 2015 Compl. 3 1 Low Sched. finish Equipment: Equipment used for hiking: Guests should be adviced on the following: • Good hiking boots, preferably water-proof and medium-stiff • Clothing as per season: -Summer: Waterproofs, 2nd layer, gloves, hats -Winter: Waterproofs, 1st layer, 2nd layer, gloves, hats, gaters • Extra socks and clothes (if needed) • Bathwear and towel (if needed) • Packed lunch/meals • Water • Compass, map, GPS • Toilet paper and plastic bags • Sunscreen • Medicine • Winter: Avalanche gear (beacons, rods, shovels) if needed, thermos, hiking sticks, stove etc. Each staff member: • Hiking boots and hiking clothings as per season • Backpack • Packed lunch/meals • Water • For overnight trips: Mat, sleeping bag, stove if needed, tent if needed, extra clothes. Additional staff equipment (per group): • Map, compass (GPS) • Uniform (not necessary) • Radio (if long-range available) • Mobile phone (at least one, fully charged) • First aid kit • Activity binder: Hiking Preperation & Pre-hike meeting with leaders: 1) Familiarize yourself with the route by hiking it AT LEAST once before bringing a group. 2) Before the hike (preferably at least one day before), meet with the group's leaders and go over maps, distances, duration, elevations, weather forcast, start time and such. You can also offer them to create a route card of the route. 3) Also discuss the group's equipment to evaluate if the group is prepared. Use the list on the previous page. 4) Discuss any health concerns within the group. Get information on any issues that might come up, especially if anyone in the group has a bad allergy, astmah, heart condition, epilepsy or anything else that can be of great concern in the wilderness. 5) Discuss number of guides, leaders and other hikers, and the level of experience and capabilites within the group, in relation to the route. 6) With all of the above in mind, are the leaders still confident in taking the group. 7) If the hike is on, make a route plan with times and contacts and leave with a senior staff member. 8) Have the leaders fill out participant forms over-night and be sure they are ready before deperture. Activity procedure: Minimum age of participants: Depends on the route and the participants. As a general rule, open up discussion for everyone under the age of 10. Staff/guest ratio (minimum requirement): 15 guests: 1 lead instructor 16-30 guests: 1 lead instructor + 1 instructor (can be replaced by leader/teacher of group) 31-45 guests: 1 lead instructor + 2 instructor (can be replaced by leader/teacher of group) Every additional 15 guests: 1 instructor/leader/teacher Note: When guiding a group that has leaders/teachers, only one guide is provided by Úlfljótsvatn, regardless of group size. Extra guides can be booked. Red flags! Hiking should/can be cancelled by: • Wind in excess of 15 meters pr. second • Thunderstorm • Thick fog • Great risk of hypothermia (for example, much rain, much wind and temperature under 10°C • Darkness can prevent successful navigation • Guest intoxication or similar restrictions in capability • Guests are obviously not prepared/capable enough for the route in question • Staff does not meet requirements (training, experience, knowledge or number of staff) • Appropriate safety equipment not used In doubt? Consult with the program director. Safety zone: No safety zone exists but ask guests to keep an eye on where they put their feet down, and not to wander off. Pre-session checklist: o Know the area, the route and interesting facts to tell on the way o Check weather/weather forcast o Go over the equipment list to see if instructors are equipped o Advice guests on clothing, equipment, route and dangers (if any) o Have group familiarize themselves with the way, perhabs do a route card o Plan in advance for possible extraction points o Book accommodation if needed o Make arrangements for luggage drop-off if needed o Leave a route plan with contact information. o Review guest numbers and number of instructors o Be sure that participant forms for everyone are brought along Session schedule: Time (est.) 2 min What? Introduction 3 min Safety talk 15 min First break ? min. Hiking (By means of regular supervision, guides ensure customers’ well-being. In the event that a customer shows signs of distress, physical impairment, hypothermia or any other signs that may cause concern, the guide will take immediate action.) 5 min 5 min Review Guests excuse themselves How? Greet guests. Who (are you)? What (are we going to do)? Where (will we go)? -Also: where are toilets on the way? When (will what happen (order))? Why (is this a great activity)? How (will we do it)? • Stay togher, don't go passed the front instructor without permission • Drink and eat well • Pair up and keep an eye on each other. Cold? Tired? • Respect the environment • Don’t litter! • Enjoy the hike! When hiked for 10 minutes, make a small pause for people to adjust clothing • Offer ineresting information every now and then • Adjust pase to the slowest person OR stop regularly to tighten the group. Discuss with leaders how fast they want to go • Keep an eye out for the hikers and offer advice on clothing, water intake, calorie intake etc. • Be ready to stop rather sooner than later for emergencies, small or large. • Monitor safest and best route choise. • Offer up-to-date information on dangers on the route. "What? So what? Now what?" Encourage them to stretch and look after each other's health for a few hours. Thank them for the hike. Duration depends on route and group Post-session checklist: o Announce arrival to keeper of route plan o Move all equipment to storage. Dry if needed, make ready for next use. o Label and put aside broken or damaged equipment. Notify program director. o Refill first-aid kits if needed. o Return accident reports to program director/general manager, if any. Additional information: Emergency procedures: • Emergency plan: Accidents • Emergency plan: Hypothermia • Emergency plan: Group lost • Emergency plan: Lost individual Suitable guest clothing/equipment: • See "equipment" Equipment checking: Does not apply Equipment renewal: When equipment not usable Content of training courses: • Hiking 1: -Equipment: Introduction, storage, logging and drying -Popular routes -Session schedules -Hiker safety and health • Hiking 2: -Leading activities (responsibilities, checklists, session schedule and talking to guests) -Practice (walk one route) -Travel behavior -Rescue Note: All participants on training courses should have read the relevant chapter in this manual, as well as relevant emergency plans. 10. Caving Staff requirements: Training requirements: Instructor • Same as for “Hiking” Training requirements: Lead instructor • Same as for “Hiking”, plus: • MUST be familiar with route For Gjábakkahellir, training courses Traveling and Navigating can be replaced with experience, as approved by the senior staff. Note: When guiding a group that has leaders/teachers, only one guide is provided by Úlfljótsvatn, regardless of group size. Extra guides can be booked. Risk assessment: Risk asessment revised in May 2016. (Severity= 1-5 Likelyhood= 1-5) Risk assessment Activity: Caving Risk Risk description Getting seperated Guest is seperated from the group, while in the cave Preventive actions Discuss with the group how important it is to stay together. Instructor stays in front and leader/teacher in back. Use two-way radios. Urge guests to look where they put their feet and hands and be careful. Use helmets. Staff trained in first aid. Encourage guests to bring and drink water Accident happens in cave that causes injury, i.e. twisted ankle, head injury or fall Guest gets dehydrated due to physical work Injury Dehydration Actions Activity: Caving Respons. Preventetive action Risk Program director Getting seperated Program director Injury Program director Dehydration May 17 2016 Responsible: Program director Severity Likelyhood Risk factor Actions? 2 2 Low Yes 3 2 Medium Yes 3 2 Low Yes Write and implement safety procedure: Discuss with the group how important it is to stay together. Instructor stays in front and leader/teacher in back. Use two-way radios. Write and implement safety procedure: Urge guests to look where they put their feet and hands and be careful. Use helmets. Staff trained in first aid. Write and implement safety procedure: Encourage guests to bring and drink water, before departure Risk after action Status Severity Likely hood Risk factor 1. June 2016 Compl. 2 1 Low 1. June 2016 Compl. 3 2 Medium 1. June 2016 Compl. 3 1 Low Sched. finish Equipment: Equipment used for caving: Basement, climbing lockers: • Helmets (one per guest) • Lights (one per guest) Guests should be adviced on the following: • Good hiking boots, preferably water-proof and medium-stiff • Clothing that is warm but can withstand contact with rock • Gloves • Water Each staff member: • Hiking boots and hiking clothings as per season • Helmet • Light • Water Additional staff equipment (per group): • Uniform (not necessary) • Two way radio • Mobile phone (at least one, fully charged) • First aid kit Note: Climbing/abseiling equipment is NOT to be used or taken off site without a permission from the program director Note: All climbing/abseiling equipment use is to be logged. Note: All climbing/abseiling equipment should be labeled and logged on purchase. Log dates for production, purchase and expiration. File name of maker and included reading material (instructions and such) along with a copy of purchasing receipt. Follow general rules on inspection and broken/damaged equipment. DO NOT use broken/damaged/expired safety equipment. Preperation & Pre-trip meeting with leaders: 1) Familiarize yourself with the route by hiking it AT LEAST once before bringing a group. 2) Discuss the difficulty level of the trip and any health concerns within the group. Get information on any issues that might come up, especially if anyone in the group has a bad allergy, astmah, heart condition, epilepsy, is claustraphobic or anything else that can be of great concern underground. Obviously, mobility issues need to be discussed as well. 3) Make it clear that there are no toilet facilitites at the location. Guests will have to use toilets before departure or at Laugarvatn. 4) Make sure the group brings drinking water. Activity procedure: Minimum age of participants: Depends on the route and the participants. As a general rule, open up discussion for everyone under the age of 10. Staff/guest ratio (minimum requirement): 15 guests: 1 lead instructor 16-30 guests: 1 lead instructor + 1 instructor (can be replaced by leader/teacher of group) 31-45 guests: 1 lead instructor + 2 instructor (can be replaced by leader/teacher of group) Every additional 15 guests: 1 instructor/leader/teacher Note: When guiding a group that has leaders/teachers, only one guide is provided by Úlfljótsvatn, regardless of group size. Extra guides can be booked. Red flags! Caving should/can be cancelled by: • Surrounding area covered with snow • Ice on the cave floor • Guest intoxication or similar restrictions in capability • Guests are obviously not prepared/capable enough for the trip in question • Staff does not meet requirements (training, experience, knowledge or number of staff) • Appropriate safety equipment not used In doubt? Consult with the program director. Safety zone: No safety zone exists but ask guests to keep an eye on where they put their feet down, and not to wander off. Pre-session checklist: o Know the area, the route and interesting facts to tell on the way o Check weather/weather forcast o Go over the equipment list to see if instructors are equipped o Advice guests on clothing, equipment, route and dangers (if any) o Review guest numbers and number of instructors Session schedule (Gjábakkahellir): Time (est.) 2 min What? Introduction 3 min Safety talk 60 min. Caving (By means of regular supervision, guides ensure customers’ well-being. In the event that a customer shows signs of distress, physical impairment, hypothermia or any other signs that may cause concern, the guide will take immediate action.) 5 min 5 min Review Guests excuse themselves Total: 75 minutes (about) How? Greet guests. Who (are you)? What (are we going to do)? Where (will we go)? -Also: where are toilets on the way? When (will what happen (order))? Why (is this a great activity)? How (will we do it)? • Stay togher, don't go passed the front instructor (or back teacher/leader) without permission • Drink well • Mind your step and your head • Respect the environment • Don’t litter! No eating in the cave! • Enjoy the cave! • Offer ineresting information every now and then • Adjust pase to the slowest person OR stop regularly to tighten the group. Discuss with leaders how fast they want to go • Be ready to stop rather sooner than later for emergencies, small or large. • Monitor safest and best route choise. • Offer up-to-date information on dangers on the route. • When half-way, or more, stop and discuss the world of underground. Have guests turn of their lights and sit in the silent darkness for a few minutes. "What? So what? Now what?" Encourage them to stretch and look after each other's health for a few hours. Thank them for the hike. Post-session checklist: o Check everyone is out of the cave o Move all equipment to storage. Dry if needed, make ready for next use. o Label and put aside broken or damaged equipment. Notify program director. o Refill first-aid kits if needed. o Return accident reports to program director/general manager, if any. Additional information: Emergency procedures: • Emergency plan: Accidents • Emergency plan: Hypothermia • Emergency plan: Lost individual Suitable guest clothing/equipment: • See "equipment" Equipment checking: Does not apply Equipment renewal: • Lights: When equipment not usable • Helmets: All safety equipment should be checked at least twice each year, at the beginning and end of the summer season. The program director is responsible for this inspeciton. We are looking for: • Expired equipment • Broken/damaged equipment • Equipment where wear and tear is starting to comprimise safe use of equipment • Equipment that can be easily fixed/updated In addition, for each session the lead instructor is responsible for a visual inspection. For caving this includes: • Checking if all helmets are solid (without cracks), with necessary straps and buckles and can be adjusted for size. Note: Climbing equipment that is taken out of use for safety reason but not discarded of (for example still used for other non-safety use) must be easily recognized as retired from safety-use. Equipment renewal: Check manufactors' advice. Here are some rule of thumbs, based on equipment use at Úlfljótsvatn: • Helmets: Up to 5 years of use from manufactoring date.* *Less if damaged, broken or wear and tear is excessive. Also, stop use if equipment suffers a great fall or is hit with a great force. Content of training courses: Instructors must have completed training courses for hiking, read this chapter and be familiar with the route. Note: All participants on training courses should have read the relevant chapter in this manual, as well as relevant emergency plans. More activities will be added….