Page 28 - 2001/02 AMA Winter

RiskManagementInAdventurousTraining By Captain (MAA) K P Edwards AFTC S03 PAT LAIT )
for Expedition Mountaineers, Climbers, Skiers and Canoeists
Ihe purpose of these notes is to provide readers with straightforward advice and guidance on risk management in adventurous training. If we connect the following statements that have been extracted from AGAI Vol 1 Chap 11 and JSP 375 Leaflet 11- Safety in Military Training and Exercises, there is an underpinning theme in presenting personnel with challenges that contain inherent risk as a fundamental training tool to develop and enhance personal operational effectiveness. The aim of Adventurous Training (AT) is to “develop through challenging pursuits and within an outdoor environment, leadership and the necessary qualities to enhance the performance of military personnel during times of peace and war". The definition of AT is “ a form of outdoor training for Service personnel requiring participation in challenging pursuits which contain an attendant risk to life and limb. The training is designed to test and develop some or all of the qualities of fitness, self- reliance. physical and moral courage, initiative, powers of endurance and interdependence".
"Military personnel are required to undertake training that by the very nature has an inherent risk in order to provide personnel with the best preparation for the roles they may undertake in times of conflict”
Risk is defined as the probability of exposure to injury or loss.
Whist it is widely recognised that AT has a profound value in the devel­ opment of Service personnel in a whole range of skills having a direct link to the operational environment, there should be a transparent safe system in place so that those being trained are faced with the risk and learn to manage it without actually coming to harm. The balance is obtained by identifying the potential hazards and implementing the necessary controls to minimise the risks. There is no inferred desire to sanitise AT or to attempt to suggest that the risks should be wholly eradicated, as this would devalue the experience. The unpredictable nature of the outdoor environment, the inherent hazards and the
of why we participate in adventurous activities. However, readers will appreciate that AT should be conducted in a safe manner with best practice uppermost in the mind of the leader/instructor. As an expe­ dition leader or instructor in AT activities, you have a responsibility for the safe management of those in your charge by applying a safe system of training approach. It is essential that:
The expedition or activity leader/instructor is deemed competent by virtue of his/her appropriate JSAT qualifications, current in the level of skills required and suitably experienced for the nature of the environment.
The type and number of specialist equipment items is available, suitable for the task and has been maintained to correct safety standards.
The leader/instructor applies the principles of safe practice in accordance with Service and National Governing Body (NGB) regulations and guidelines. Ensure that the essential Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is issued, worn by all personnel and that training in the correct use of PPE and additional safety equipment is completed.
The site is suitable for the level of training to be conducted and or the expedition area is appropriate for the level of ability and expe­ rience of the group.
Risk Assessments
The main tool for leaders/instructors in the management of safety is a risk assessment ideally carried in the back pocket. Risk assessments should not be viewed as a burden as they are merely intended simply to focus the mind of the leader/instructor on the inherent and potential hazards and the pragmatic measures to effectively minimise, control
ARMY MOUHTAIWIIH )
exposure to the risks present the challenges and are the very essence