Snowkiting in Alberta

Risk

Risk Management Plan for Snowkiting

Objective: To ensure the safety of participants, staff, and the environment during snowkiting activities by identifying, assessing, mitigating, and monitoring risks associated with the sport.

1. Risk Identification

Environmental Risks

  • Weather Conditions: Wind strength and direction are critical for snowkiting. High winds or sudden changes in wind patterns can lead to loss of control.
  • Avalanches: Snow conditions, especially in mountainous regions, pose the risk of avalanches.
  • Visibility: Low visibility due to snow, fog, or storms increases the risk of collisions with obstacles or other kiters.
  • Frozen Water Bodies: Unstable or thin ice on lakes and rivers presents a drowning risk.

Physical Risks

  • Injuries: Falls, high-impact collisions, and kite crashes can cause fractures, dislocations, and head injuries.
  • Hypothermia/Frostbite: Prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can lead to hypothermia or frostbite if not properly managed.

Equipment Risks

  • Kite Malfunctions: Faulty or poorly maintained kites, lines, or harnesses can lead to loss of control.
  • Failure of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Helmets, harnesses, and safety gear must be in good condition.

Participant Risks

  • Inexperience: Novices are more prone to accidents due to a lack of knowledge and control.
  • Medical Conditions: Participants with pre-existing health issues such as cardiovascular problems or asthma may be at higher risk in high-altitude or extreme cold environments.

Legal Risks

  • Liability: Injuries or accidents without proper legal waivers could lead to lawsuits against the organizer.

2. Risk Assessment

For each identified risk, assess both the likelihood and severity. The most severe risks (e.g., avalanches, high winds) should be prioritized for mitigation.

Example:

  • Avalanche: Low
  • Hypothermia: Likelihood: Medium.
  • Equipment Malfunction: Likelihood: Medium, Severity: Low
  • Injury from Collision: Likelihood: Medium, Severity: Medium

3. Risk Mitigation Strategies

Preventive Actions

  • Weather Monitoring: Regularly check weather forecasts and wind conditions. Cancel activities during extreme weather or avalanche warnings.
  • Participant Training: Ensure all participants have adequate training and experience for the conditions. Offer basic safety courses for beginners.
  • Equipment Checks: Inspect all kites, harnesses, helmets, and safety gear before each session. Ensure kites and lines are well-maintained and functioning.
  • Avalanche Precautions: For mountain areas, ensure participants carry avalanche beacons, shovels, and probes. Avoid high-risk zones.
  • Cold Weather Gear: Ensure participants wear appropriate thermal clothing, gloves, and protective gear to prevent hypothermia or frostbite.

Emergency Planning

  • Safety Zones: Designate safe zones for snowkiting away from hazardous areas such as trees, rocks, or thin ice.
  • Medical Kit and First Aid: Ensure there is a fully equipped first aid kit on site, along with trained personnel capable of handling emergencies.
  • Emergency Response: Have a plan in place for dealing with serious injuries or emergencies, including nearby medical facilities and a method to quickly reach emergency services.

Legal Protection

  • Waivers: Ensure all participants sign a clear waiver that includes an acknowledgment of risks and a release of liability. Make sure the language is straightforward and legally sound.
  • Insurance: Have adequate insurance coverage for accidents, injuries, or equipment damage.

4. Implementation

  • Safety Briefings: Conduct pre-session briefings for all participants, detailing the weather conditions, equipment checks, and emergency procedures.
  • Assign Safety Officers: Designate staff responsible for monitoring weather conditions, equipment checks, and participant behavior during the activity.
  • Participant Limits: Limit the number of kiters in high-risk areas at one time to reduce the chances of collisions and ensure adequate supervision.

5. Monitoring and Review

  • Real-Time Monitoring: Continuously monitor weather conditions during the activity. In case of worsening weather or wind patterns, call for a halt or early termination of the session.
  • Post-Activity Review: After each session, review any incidents or near-misses to understand what went wrong and how to improve future risk management efforts.
  • Annual Review: Review and update the risk management plan annually or after any major incidents to ensure all risks are covered.

6. Communication

  • Participant Awareness: Clearly communicate all risks, safety procedures, and emergency protocols to participants during briefings. Use signage or markers in high-risk areas.
  • Emergency Contacts: Maintain up-to-date contact information for local emergency services, rescue teams, and medical facilities.