Page 7 - Misconduct a Reference for Race Officials

Introduction

This advice is directed at anyone who is involved in the organisation or
management of recreational boating events, including racing, cruising, training,
open days and similar activities, whether under power or sail, on inland or tidal
waters.

This guide seeks to ensure that those organisers are aware of the relevant legal
implications and the respective responsibilities of organisers and participants. It
should assist organisers in understanding those responsibilities and explaining
them to participants, so that all those involved can make informed decisions and
put in place appropriate safeguards.

In particular, this guide should assist organisers in:
 understanding their responsibilities, as organiser (Section 1);
 focussing on managing risk (Sections 2, 3 and 4);
 alerting participants to the inherent risks of the sport by the use of risk
statements (Section 7);
 drawing participant’s attention to the rules of the event, including: (in the
case of competitive events) ISAF and UIM rules as well as each
organiser’s own rules, notices of race, sailing instructions and entry forms;
and
 seeking appropriate insurance (Section 5).

Although none relates specifically to recreational boating, there have been a
number of claims in recent years against sports organisers, notably in swimming,
outdoor activity and rugby, involving injury both to young people and to adult
competitors. Event organisers should therefore always be aware of their potential
liabilities. In some cases this awareness will reinforce their decision to abandon
or curtail an event on safety grounds. Conversely, and equally importantly, it may
reinforce their decision, in appropriate circumstances, to continue an event in
difficult conditions.

This guide is not intended to be safety advice. Safety issues are fully dealt with in
a number of other publications available from the RYA website at
www.rya.org.uk.

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