Safety guidelines nov 13

Safety Guidelines

Land Based Adventure Activities

Prepared By

Expert Committee

Akhil Maharashtra Giryarohan Mahasangh

Safety Guidelines

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Section 00

Index

Section Number Title Revision Status

00 Index 17. 11. 2013

1 Introduction 16. 11. 2013

2 Definitions 17. 11. 2013

3 Scope - Applicability and Exclusions 17. 11. 2013

4 Registration 17. 11. 2013

5 Management Responsibility 17. 11. 2013

6 a Skills and Competencies 17. 11. 2013

6 b Capability Enhancement 17. 11. 2013

7 Communication 17. 11. 2013

8 Equipment 16. 11. 2013

9 Service Providers 16. 11. 2013

10.1 Field Guidelines for Trekking 16. 11. 2013

10.2 Field Guidelines for Camps and Courses 16. 11. 2013

10.3 Field Guidelines for Rappelling and Valley crossing 16. 11. 2013

11 Leave No Trace (LNT) 16. 11. 2013

12 Risk Management 17. 11. 2013

13 Critical Incidents and Complaints Redressal 17. 11. 2013

14 Document Revision Mechanism 16. 11. 2013

15 Closing Comments 16. 11. 2013

16 Reference Documents and Templates 17.11.2013

17 References 16. 11. 2013

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Section 1

Introduction and Preface

1.0 Preface

Today, an increasing number of people are venturing into outdoor adventure activities. This is

especially true in the state of Maharashtra with its varied natural resources and a considerable

number of adventure enthusiasts. By definition, adventure is an activity which has inherent risk,

resulting in an uncertain outcome. Whether an adventure activity has a perceived risk or a real risk, it

has an appeal that draws people. Besides the thrill that adventurers seek in facing and overcoming

danger, there are other benefits that adventure is seen to have in aspects like educational and

therapeutic value. Under the circumstances safety becomes an issue in its own right, and it is

important that adventure activities are conducted in a way which minimises risks and yet provides

the undeniable benefits of participation.

2.0 Background

The genesis of this process of evolving comprehensive safety guidelines applicable to organizers of

adventure activities from the state of Maharashtra lies in a Public Interest Litigation (No 184/2007) in

the Honourable High Court of Judicature at Bombay by the parents of a 15 year old boy who lost his

life due to high altitude sickness in the Himalaya. The parents of the child claimed that the organizers

had not made adequate arrangements for the safety of the trekking group. The Honorable High

Court vide its order, dated 12th July, 2013 in the matter directed the Maharashtra Government to

formulate comprehensive policy, guidelines or regulations to regulate the activity of unregistered

organizations. The Honourable High Court has expected that the State Government shall ensure the

safety of the participants who will be taking part in mountaineering activities, camps and trekking

expeditions.

Akhil Maharashtra Giryarohan Mahasangh (hereinafter referred to as “AMGM”), as an apex body of

Mountaineering Clubs in the State of Maharashtra, filed an application for intervention in the above

referred PIL which was allowed by the Honourable Division Bench of Bombay High Court. While

making the application for intervention, the sole object of AMGM was to assist the Honourable Court

in formulating safety guidelines so as to ensure that proper precautions are taken while conducting

various activities in the field of trekking, rock climbing and mountaineering.

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3.0 Introduction

In Maharashtra, many adventure organizations follow their own safety guidelines and procedures in

order to function safely and effectively. Such safety guidelines have been derived after study of

similar systems and procedures propounded by organizations like the Indian Mountaineering

Foundation (IMF), Union Internationale Des Associations D’Alpinisme (UIAA), National Outdoor

Leadership School (NOLS) and Outward Bound International (OB). In compliance with the order of

the Honourable High Court, it is now imperative that a comprehensive document of safety guidelines

for outdoor adventure activities is prepared, to appropriately guide organizations and individuals in

their planning and operations during such activities.

While devising any policy towards regulating adventure activities like trekking, rock climbing and

mountaineering in Maharashtra, it is necessary to comprehend the nature and scope of the activity

being conducted. Maharashtra is blessed with two major mountain ranges, the Sahyadri and

Satpuda, in addition to a long coastline. Almost throughout the year adventure activities, especially

land-based adventure activities are conducted by hundreds of organization catering to thousands

of participants across age groups. These programmes are of varied nature, addressing different goals

related to leisure, education including personal development and therapy. Also, trekking and

mountaineering in the Himalaya evolves naturally for adventurers in Maharashtra. Many

organizations in Maharashtra arrange Himalaya-based programmes independently as well as with

the help of local operators.

4.0 Purpose of this Document

Broadly:

This Document aims at contributing to continuous enhancement of safety in land-based outdoor

adventure activities by bringing in clarity about mandatory requirements and stating guidelines

which will help organizations, and individuals as stakeholders in an adventure event, operate safely

and in comfort in the outdoors.

Specifically:

This Document

• Aims at contributing to capability enhancement of organizations and individuals. It strives to

create an adequate level of conceptual clarity behind recommendations included in

guidelines. Such clarity not only fosters uniformity in operations – especially in risk mitigation – but

also empowers individuals in responsible roles to take safe decisions, which is significant given

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the nature of ‘adventure’ along with its direct interaction with the natural elements, inherent risk

and uncertainty in outcome.

• Believes that such guidance contributes to having robust foundation for operations and

enables organizations and individuals to take on bigger challenges in a manner which is

responsible toward safety of people and various environments.

• Will contribute to enhancing the self-awareness of organizations and individuals, and facilitate

aspirations for enhanced risk management in all operations, with a focus not only on ‘safety’

but also ‘comfort’.

• Aims at contributing to ‘educating’ members of the public in order to help them take informed

decisions about participation in various adventure based programmes.

• Aims at inspiring willingness to follow these guidelines through conceptual understanding.

This Document believes that its guidelines and recommendations do not

• Intend to hamper any adventure activity, nor does it intend to curb the participation of outdoor

enthusiasts either in extent or in numbers.

• Curb the freedom or the capacity of individuals – especially those in responsible roles – to

exercise judgment or take decisions. On the contrary, this Document will help in enhancing

judgment of such individuals thereby empowering them for safer and more effective decision-

making.

On the whole, this Document strives to strike the crucial balance between helping minimizing risk in

adventure operations and empowering organizations and individuals to undertake varied kinds of

programmes as well as aspire for bigger challenges in a responsible manner.

Disclaimer: the Experts Committee (EC) and the Akhil Maharashtra Giryarohan Mahasangh

(AMGM) have developed this Document. The aim is to assist Organisations and individuals from

Maharashtra in the prevention and reduction of injury in land based adventure activities in

order to make them safer and more enjoyable. The EC and the AMGM cannot and do not

warrant the accuracy or the completeness of this guide and content and, as a result, they will

not be liable to any person or Organisation for any loss or damage of any nature, whether

arising out of negligence or otherwise, which may be occasioned as a result of the use of this

set of safety guidelines and recommendations.

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Section 2

Definitions

• Adventure activity: an activity that involves greater than normal risk which may include a)

travel into a relatively undeveloped area of the country in which vehicle contact is difficult

and/or uncertain or b) confrontation with natural environmental challenges requiring greater

reliance upon personal resources than would normally be required in day-to-day life.

• Land based adventure activity: An adventure activity which is primarily conducted at the

various geological features like hills, mountains, rock faces, pinnacles, valleys etc. on the

earth’s surface

• Service Provider: An individual or organization which provides service/s to the adventure

program of a contracting organization which service/s it wishes to outsource.

• Service: Service could be in the form of an activity associated with the adventure part of the

program or an activity which complements the adventure part (e.g., transport to the

adventure site, boarding and lodging, etc.).

• Scrambling: strenuous walks, right up to easy (but sometimes exposed) climbs that don't

necessarily need ropes. Another way to describe it is a gradual introduction to outdoor rock

climbing, and usually less intimidating than actual climbing.

• Trekking (short treks) – walking on different terrain for short period of time, i.e. one (1) hour to

one (1) day;

• Hiking /Backpacking (Multi-day treks) - walking on mountain and wilderness trails over an

extended period of time, i.e. two (2) or more days;

• Rock climbing: process of ascending a rock face requiring the use of naturally formed

handholds and footholds and uses specialized equipment as a backup safety system.

• Lead climbing: Lead climbing involves a climber ascending a rock face, safeguarded by the

ongoing placement of protection while belayed from below.

• Bouldering: Bouldering is an activity in its own right requiring the same techniques found in rock

climbing; however, these techniques are usually applied no higher than two meters off the

ground.

• Rappelling (sometimes referred as Abseiling) is an activity in which a person descends a rope

in a controlled manner with the use of a friction device or descender. Abseiling may be used

to descend a cliff face as part of a rock-climbing program or it may be practiced as a

separate activity.

• Rappelling (Abseiling) Camps and or Events including Waterfall Rappelling Camps and or

Events: Camps or Events which include rappelling from a rock surface or a waterfall as the

focused activity and also may introduce participants to the basic skills and techniques used in

the activity.

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• Adventure Camps for Kids and or Adults: Camp includes any day camp, family camp, resident

camp, trek camp, specialty-adventure camp, high-adventure camp, rope course, climbing,

rappelling and orienteering etc. program introducing participants to skills and techniques in

the outdoors.

• Rock Climbing Courses: Rock climbing course (camps) are single or multiday courses teaching

techniques and skills of rock climbing and allied activity like bouldering, sport climbing,

traditional climbing, rappelling and risk management.

• Rock Climbing Expeditions: This involves rock climbing in the outdoors over a period of days.

• Valley Crossing Expeditions / camps: This is the technique used to cross a void using the

method of Tyrolean Traverse, which involves a person slung on a rope tied across the void.

• Experiential Learning based Programme: This is a programme designed using the methodology

of experiential learning which uses a series of activities each one of which is followed by a

review session where participants derive learnings through reflection in their experiences.

• High altitude Adventure Camps for adults / kids: Camp includes any day camp, family camp,

resident camp, trek camp, specialty-adventure camp, high-adventure camp, rope course,

climbing, rappelling and orienteering etc. program introducing participants to skills and

techniques in the Himalaya.

• High Altitude Trek: shall mean walking on mountain and wilderness trails over an extended

period of time, i.e. two (2) or more days at higher elevations.

• Mountaineering Expeditions: A multi-day activity for climbing peaks in the Himalaya.

• Exploratory Treks / Expeditions: shall mean walking on unexplored mountain and wilderness

trails over an extended period of time, i.e. two (2) or more days at higher elevations.

• Desert Trekking: walking in a desert.

• Coastal Trekking: walking along the coasts.

• Social Environment: That part of the environment that comprises of local populations and their

cultures.

• Historical: the component of the adventurer’s environment that comprises of archaeological

structures.

• Ecological: the natural environment of an adventurer

• Organisation: individual or group of individuals, commercial or non-commercial entities

organising any adventure activity

• Management: The top management in any Organisation, responsible for policy-making, and

direction to the rest of the organisation

• Hazard: is something that can potentially cause harm; objective hazards are largely natural

phenomena, and subjective hazards are largely related to human factors.

• Risk Potential: arises when subjective a hazard comes into contact with an objective hazard

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• Critical Incident: Any significant incident that demands medication and/or first aid and/or

extended care and/or conflict management and/or evacuation of person

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Section 3

Scope, Applicability and Exclusions

1.0 The ‘Safety Guidelines’ are applicable to the ‘Land based Adventure Activities’ listed in the section

and therefore the Organizations conducting the same.

2.0 The list of activities for which the ‘Safety Guidelines’ are applicable.

2.1 Sahyadri and other areas except Himalaya:

• Scrambling

• Short treks

• Multi-day Treks

• Adventure Camps for Kids / Adults

• Rock Climbing Courses

• Rock Climbing Expeditions

• Valley Crossing Expeditions / Camps

• Rappelling (Abseiling) Camps / Events

• Waterfall Rappelling Camps / Events

• Experiential Learning Programs

2.2 Himalaya:

• Adventure Camps for adults / kids

• High Altitude Treks

• Peak Climbing (Mountaineering) Expeditions

• Exploratory Treks / Expeditions

2.3 Other Geographical Areas: (Eg. Deserts, Sea Coasts, Rock faces)

• Desert Trekking

• Coastal Trekking

2.4 Exclusions - The following ‘Land based Adventure Activities’ are excluded from ‘Safety Guidelines’

do not include.

• Caving

• Mountain Biking

• Motor Sports

• Water and air based activities

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3.0 Type of Organizations conducting the above Adventure activities, to whom the ‘Safety Guidelines’

are applicable.

Sr No Type of Organization Applicability

1 Un-Registered commercial / non-commercial

organizations organizing adventure activities for general

public.

Mandatory.

2 Un-Registered Individuals organizing adventure activities

of commercial / non-commercial nature for general

public.

Mandatory.

3 Registered Profit Making / Commercial Organizations

organizing adventure activities for their clients,

Mandatory.

4 Registered Non-Profit Making / Voluntary Organizations

organizing adventure activities for their members and

general public

Mandatory.

5 School, Colleges or other type of Institutions which

organize adventure activities for their students, etc.

Mandatory.

6 Organizations imparting Experiential Learning.

Mandatory.

7 Individual adventure lovers enjoying adventure activities

on their own

Not mandatory. Refer this

Document’s guidelines for safer

and more enjoyable experience

8 Families / Family members enjoying adventure activities

on their own,




9 Group of Friends enjoying adventure activities on their

own,




10 People working in hilly areas in fields like medical aid

and education

Not Applicable

11 Pilgrims going to e.g., hilltop temples and other religious

locations

Not Applicable

12 People engaged in Surveys in mountainous regions

Not Applicable

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Section 4

Types of Organizations and Registration

1.0 The Management shall ensure that the Organization is registered as applicable, and its membership

valid throughout the time period of its operation.

The Management shall ensure that the Organization is registered with the Apex Body from the field of

hiking & mountaineering in Maharashtra State)

2.0 Guidelines

2.1 Types of Organizations and their mandatory registrations with the Government bodies is as follows

Entity Document Statutory Registration Legal Entity Adventure

Registration

Proprietorship

None required Not Required No Apex Body

Partner Partnership Deed Not Required

(Notarization)

No Apex Body

Private Ltd Co.

MOA Companies Act Yes Apex Body

Public Ltd. Co.

AOA Companies Act, SEBI Yes Apex Body

Society

Society charter Charity Commissioner Yes Apex Body

Public Trust

Trust Deed Charity Commissioner Yes Apex Body

2.2 Advantages of Registration

• To ensure that the field of adventure activities is regulated appropriately.

• To ensure competence of operators and other service providers.

• To ensure safety of all participants as the primary concern.

• To take practices in the field of outdoors to the highest professional level through regulation and

guidance, equal to the best in the world.

• To ensure that better and more consistent information on the adventure tourism sector is

regularly collected, collated and disseminated to all stakeholders.

2.3 Registration of the Organization with APEX BODY

The process of registration of the Organization with apex body is as follows

• Organization shall furnish required information in the prescribed format to apex body along with

Management’s commitment on implementation of Safety Guidelines in the Organization.

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• Apex Body shall review the furnished information and their commitment and register the

Organization as ‘Member’.

The registration is valid initially for one year and then valid for three years.

Apex Body shall reject the application in case the furnished information and commitment are

found to be inadequate.

• During the period of registration, the organization shall furnish details on annual basis on ‘High

Risk’ activities carried out along with assurance from the Management on implementation of

Safety Guidelines. In case the information provided is not adequate, Apex Body shall request the

Organization for required information to substantiate their claim for implementation of Safety

Guidelines in the Organization.

• Apex Body shall cancel the registration in case Organization fails to substantiate their claim

regarding implementation of Safety Guidelines in the Organization.

3.0 Verification

• Evidence of

o Statutory Registration

o Adventure Registration

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Section 5

Management Responsibility

1.0 The Organization shall drive implementation of safety guidelines for adventure activities by

Implementing recommendations stated in this document, in order to minimize the risk associated with

the activity

The organization shall demonstrate its intent for environmental impact through appropriate practices

derived from ‘Leave No Trace’ principles as well as its intent for enhancing capabilities.

1.1 Management shall ensure

Implementation of review mechanism for review and develop a healthy culture of review-learn-

implement-show. The Organization shall ensure feedback / complaints from the Participants as well

as Leaders and Instructors with respect to Safety and analyze the same. The Organization shall take

appropriate actions in order to prevent recurrence of the same.

1.2 Organization shall implement mechanism for Complaint Handling in order to ensure effective

redressal.

1.3 Management shall ensure

The review shall include analysis of accidents, incidents in order to determine root cause and take

actions to prevent the same. The organization shall communicate the details of analysis to EC AMGM

for circulation of information to all concerned in the field.

1.4 Management shall ensure that

Internal audits are conducted to ensure that the ‘Safety Norms’ are implemented effectively in the

Organization and corrective actions are initiated on the ‘Review Findings’ if any.

• The management shall nominate a person or group persons to conduct internal review in order

to ensure implementation of Safety Guidelines in the activities conducted. The review activity

shall be done on sample basis and shall include review of records as well as discussions with the

concerned persons.

• The Reviewer shall record the discrepancies, if observed, as findings and shall report the same to

the Management.

• The Management shall ensure root analysis and initiate actions so the same discrepancies do not

recur in future.

• The Organization shall conduct internal reviews at least once in six months.

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1.6 The Management of the Organization shall demonstrate its commitment to adopt and implement

best and safest practices in all its working by

• declaring aims and objectives

• ensuring compliance with statutory and legal requirements

• adopting operating procedures which consistently minimize risk to people, environment and

equipment

• interacting in a safe and healthy way with the cultural and social environments, in all of its areas of

operations

• ensuring deployment of appropriately trained staff in sufficient numbers whenever adventure

programmes are carried out

• using appropriate equipment which has been maintained and logged for use

• adopting risk management practices appropriately: preparing for regularly encountered risks

through equipping staff/members with knowledge, training and equipment

• empowering staff/members for being effective in risk management for minimizing unforeseen risks

• providing appropriate training to staff/members in routine work in order to deliver program

expectations while minimizing risks

• providing appropriate training to staff/members to handle emergencies

• establishing effective emergency response procedure and deploying resources in anticipation

• providing support and back-up to staff/member handling emergencies

• having robust review and feedback processes, complaint handling process, and critical incident

review process

• conducting periodic Organizational reviews

• setting up effective communication processes within the Organization, with other Organizations for

networking and with program participants to fulfil objectives while minimizing risk

3.0 Records for Verification:

• Periodic review and feedback records, reports of Internal audits

• Demonstrate action taken on review and feedback points

• Continuous improvement manifesting in measurable performance criteria and feedback received

from staff/members as well as program participants

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Section 6 a

Skills and Competencies

1.0 The Organization shall have clearly defined skill sets and competencies which will facilitate smooth

and effective functioning to deliver program expectations while consistently minimizing risk in all its

operations

2.0 Guidelines

2.1 It is to be noted that the different competencies mentioned here will primarily serve to

2.1.1 Create awareness of the comprehensive skills required to execute the several roles that bear

responsibility towards maximizing the effectiveness of healthy and safe practices while retaining the

charm and benefits of adventure activities, and

2.1.2 Help Organizations and individuals to decide on directions of growth that will point at requisite

training inputs required, given the continuous thrust towards maximizing safety

Skills required can be classified into two broad categories Technical skills

People skills

2.1.3 The areas of responsibilities which will require this set of multiple skills can be listed as follows:

Programme design (based on, say, terrain difficulty, participant profile, programme-

goals, concepts like outdoor education, etc.)

Risk Management – across functional areas

Group leadership -- with clarity in roles like escorts, instructors and leaders

Equipment purchase -- maintenance and repair-discarding

Logistics – especially for organised programmes in remote areas

Communication – within Organisation, with programme participants & public, and

during critical incidents

Management & Administration -- including finance and legal aspects

Note:

1. The following list of skills and competencies is adapted from the UIAA Model Training Standards

for Voluntary Leaders and Instructors – please note that this list is to be used only as a reference

list, ‘indicative’ of what is desirable and recommended.

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2. The following list of skills and competencies also take cognizance of three criteria that would be

relevant to forming a specific skill-set for a particular role:

i) Qualification

ii) Experience

iii) Training

2.2 SKILLS

A. Specific Activity Expertise

a. Courses undertaken and evaluations from same (e.g. rock climbing, basic & advance

mountaineering, search-and-rescue, etc.)

b. Knowledge & Technique, including of equipment

c. Experience, primarily of personal trips and expeditions

d. Any noteworthy achievement or experience (e.g. awards, published material)

B. Mountain Environment

a Knowledge about geography and geology of Sahyadri, Himalaya, etc.

b. Experience in practices in conservation and protection: socio-cultural-ecological

c. Experience in application of Leave No Trace Principles through appropriate practices

C Weather

a. Basic understanding of weather in the Sahyadri, Himalaya, etc.

b. Comprehension of consequences of weather factors on various groups

c. Ability of interpreting signs of changes in weather which might be of concern to group

D Orientation & Navigation

a. Familiarity with the Sahyadri, Himalaya, etc. terrain – ability to navigate in all kinds of

conditions, ability to estimate distances, ability to do micro-route-finding

b. Familiarity with navigation techniques and equipment

Map reading and use of maps

Use of compass for route finding with the help of maps

Use of compass for organizing games relevant to diverse age groups and program

requirements

Use of map and compass for planning, preparation and realization of routes in Sahyadri

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E Risk Management in mountains

a. Comprehensive grasp and approach to risk management practices; ability to execute

role as stated in Organization’s emergency response mechanism

b. Ability to relate organization’s accepted field practices to organization’s core values as

well as program designs

c. Knowledge and techniques needed to safeguard groups in camps and terrain outside

camps, taking into consideration objective hazards

F Search & Rescue

a. Knowledge of appropriate rescue equipment and other needs for proposed activity or

program

b. Ability to independently take charge of emergency situations, deploy resources and

manage others

c. Ability to administer first aid

d. Ability to effectively use communication systems set up by one’s organisation for handling

emergency situations

G Leadership

a. Courses undertaken (leadership workshops, outdoor leadership)

b. Has demonstrated high self awareness

c. Ability and experience in leading teams and groups

d. Flexibility of leadership styles

e. Presentation skills, especially in the context of briefing for activities and programmes

f. Organization and control of group

g. Ability to adapt a program to suit different group profiles

h. Grasp of and ability to balance diverse needs that can arise during operations

i. Personal traits like resilience, resourcefulness, assertiveness, communication,

approachability

H Teaching/instructing

a. Courses undertaken (e.g. instructor training, teaching skills, coaching-mentoring)

b. Knowledge of subject matter

c. Knowledge and skill of teaching techniques

d. Knowledge about and experience in having worked with different groups; this is especially

important for groups of children

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e. Ability to assess effectiveness of knowledge/skill being transmitted, and to be flexible in

one’s role to enhance effectiveness if necessary

f. Knowledge and skill of evaluation for various purposes

I Anatomy and physiology

a. Characteristics of proposed activity/program

b. Physical preparation required for an activity or program

c. Diet considerations

d. Physical fitness for an activity or program

e. Tiredness and recuperation in the mountains

f. Effects of weather

g. Ability to prevent emergencies and to administer first aid when necessary

J First Aid

a. Status of first aid certification: whether it is a ‘wilderness first aid’ certificate and whether it

is current

b. Experience of having administered first aid in remote situations

K. Organizational and Managerial Skills

a. Ability to plan, organize and implement things that go beyond the immediate task-level

demands

b. Initiative in taking lead in organizing events

c. Ability to streamline individual efforts within teams

d. Alignment with organizational values, goals and culture

L Legal Matters

a. Knowledge of responsibilities and legislations relevant to undertaken activity/project

b. Knowledge of rights of operations

c. Knowledge of issues related to insurance

d. Knowledge of legalities related to rescue operations

2.3 The following table mentions the skill sets required for a few key program varieties most often

undertaken by Organizations and individuals from Maharashtra.

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To arrive at adequate skills sets for a variety of roles, the following table is to be used in conjunction

with a) the list of skills stated above, to choose one or more specific points listed under each skill-

head, and b) content of the syllabi for a variety of adventure programmes mentioned elsewhere in

this Document.

Program

mes

In-charge Leader / Instructor Junior Leader /

Instructor

Hike in

Sahyadri

Specific Activity Expertise.

Mountain Environment.

Weather.

Orientation & Navigation.

Risk Management in

mountains.

Search & Rescue.

Leadership.

Teaching/instructing.

Anatomy and physiology.

First Aid (strongly

recommended).

Organisational and

Managerial Skills.

Legal Matters.



Weather.


Risk Management in

mountains.

Search & Rescue

Leadership.



First Aid (strongly

recommended.

Legal Matters.

Specific Activity

Expertise.

Orientation &

Navigation.


Anatomy and

physiology

Hike in

Himalaya



Weather.


Risk Management in

mountains.

Search & Rescue.

Leadership.



First Aid (strongly

recommended).

Organisational and

Managerial Skills.

Legal Matters.



Weather.


Risk Management in

mountains.

Search & Rescue.

Leadership.



First Aid (strongly

recommended).

Legal Matters.

Specific Activity

.Expertise.


Weather.

Orientation &

Navigation.

Leadership.

Basic &

advance

Rock

Climbing

courses



Weather.


Risk Management in

mountains.

Search & Rescue.

Leadership.



First Aid (strongly

recommended).

Organisational and



Risk Management in

mountains.

Search & Rescue.

Leadership.



First Aid (strongly

recommended).

Specific Activity.

Expertise.


Leadership.

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Program

mes

In-charge Leader / Instructor Junior Leader /

Instructor

Managerial Skills.

Legal Matters.

Adventur

e-based

camps

for

children



Weather.


Risk Management in

mountains.

Search & Rescue.

Leadership.



First Aid (strongly

recommended).

Organisational and

Managerial Skills.

Legal Matters.



Weather.


Risk Management in

mountains.

Search & Rescue.

Leadership.



First Aid (strongly

recommended).

Legal Matters.

Specific Activity

Expertise.


Weather.

Orientation &

Navigation.

Risk Management in

mountains.

Leadership.


3.0 Records for Verification

• Competency Records of In-charge, Leader s/ Instructors, Junior Leaders/ Instructors

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Section 6 b

Capability Enhancement

1.0 The Organization shall ensure continuous improvement in functioning which leads to greater

efficiency, minimum risk and hence, maximum efficacy in meeting program needs.

2.0 Guidelines

2.1 An Organisation shall look at the following entities when considering capability enhancement:

1. Organisational Development (OD)

2. Training and Development of staff/members (TaD)

Skills being considered here are classified into two

broad categories

Technical skills

People skills

Ideally, the courses should end with an evaluation along with a certificate of completion.

2.1.1 Organizational Development (OD)

The Organization shall undertake improvement in its functioning with the objective of being aware of

and getting trained in new and latest developments in the following fields:

• Technology and design of equipment

• Research in crucial fields like first aid, rescue techniques & environment friendly practices

• Systems and processes, especially in crucial fields like emergency response procedures

• Opportunities for training and networking, especially to create internal training resource with

which to spread such practices amongst staff/members

• Government rules and regulations, and amendments thereof

2.1.2 Training and Development of staff/members (TaD)

The TaD requirements can be broadly classified as follows:

1. Hiking skills for travel in in Sahyadri and Himalaya

• On-trail

• Off-trail

• Scrambling

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• Snow travel

• Glacier travel

• River crossing

• Orienteering

• Environment safety (natural and socio-cultural environments)

2. Steep terrain travel

• Rock climbing

• Bouldering in Sahyadri and Himalaya

• Traditional climbing, on pinnacles and big walls in Sahyadri and Himalaya


•

3. Extreme Himalayan adventure

• Hiking on routes involving extreme altitude and/or terrain and/or weather (e.g., winter

ventures)

• Exploration of new routes

• Peak climbing expeditions


4. Search & Rescue

• For Sahyadri as well as the Himalaya

5. First aid and extended care

• Basic first aid Courses

• Wilderness First aid Courses (which have ‘extended care’ as an inherent component)

6. People skills (i.e. soft skills)

• Outdoor Leadership short-duration Workshops and long-duration Courses

2.2 Special note on specific skills required for conducting adventure camps for children:

Training modules by resource persons like child psychologists and educationists to address

• Communication

• Teaching techniques

• Supervision of children on sites

• Relevant first aid aspects for children

• Difference in role execution as leaders/instructors for different age groups (8-14 years, 15-17

years and 18+ years)

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Note: Since it becomes impractical to have all staff/members get trained through external

resources, it is recommended that 1 or 2 persons with willingness & potential get trained outside to

become an ‘internal resource’ for spreading knowledge and skills within the Organisation.

PLEASE NOTE: This is NOT valid for specific activity skills like rock climbing, mountaineering and first

aid.

2.2 Information on a few courses available in India, and also the syllabi for some short duration

courses.

Information on the different kinds of courses currently available with this Document is as follows:

1. Basic & Advance Rock Climbing Courses

Girivihar Mountaineering Club, Mumbai

Explorers & Adventurers Club, Mumbai

Giripremi Mountaineering Club, Pune

2. Basic & Advance Mountaineering Courses

Nehru Institute of Mountaineering, Uttarkashi

Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Darjeeling

Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Mountaineering & Allied Sports, Manali

3. Search and Rescue Courses




4. Method of Instruction Courses




5. Basic and Advance First Aid Courses

Red Cross (in multiple locations)

St. John ambulance (in multiple locations)

Home Guard (in multiple locations)

6. First aid Courses

Wilderness Medicine Institute of NOLS, Ranikhet

Rashtriya Life Saving Society, Pune

Symbiosis Health Institute, Pune

7. Outdoor Leadership Courses

Nandadevi Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS India), Ranikhet

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Hanifl Centre of Woodstock school, Mussoorie

8. Courses in outdoor education / experiential learning

Outdoor Educators Course, Nandadevi Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS India), Ranikhet

Diploma in Experiential Education & Practice, Kaveri Group of Institutes, Pune

9. A few commercial outdoors based outfits in cities like Mumbai, Pune and Bengaluru conduct short

duration courses on topics like experiential learning, outdoor leadership and basic first aid.

Quality of one’s judgment increases through

o Education, training, reading, networking

o Practice, reflect on experiences, learn,

predict, implement, …

o Use coaches and mentors

o Use feedback in a self-development plan

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07 Communication r 4

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Section 7

Communication to Participants, and Others

1.0 The Organization shall ensure that the right information is communicated to the Participants of events

and outings. The information provided by the Organization regarding the Event or Outing will be

useful for the Participants to assess the risk levels, level of physical activity involved, which is helpful for

the Participants to take informed decisions on participation.

The Organization shall request Participants for mandatory disclosures for certain High altitude events /

outings, such as fitness Certificates from Registered Medical Practitioners.

The Organization shall communicate with other Organizations by networking, Government

Authorities, as appropriate and also have Communication channels within its own authorities and

members.

2.0 Guidelines

2.1 Organization shall maintain open communication as follows:

1. Within the Organization

2. With program participants coming in from the public

3. With other outdoor organizations by networking

4. With requisite government authorities

2.1.1 Communication within Organization

• Statement of goals & objectives, to be communicated to staff/members for alignment

• Plans for adventure programmes, to be communicated to staff/members

• Role definitions along with responsibilities, to be communicated to staff/members

• Updates in equipment technology, risk management practices, legalities and other relevant

developments, to be communicated to staff/members

• Facilitating review & feedback between staff/members for individual and organizational growth

2.1.2 Communication with program participants coming in from the public

• Program information to be communicated with potential participants well in advance: key

parameters like nature of natural elements, grade of difficulty, fitness expectations, qualification

of leadership team and organizational information

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• Program details to confirmed participants: terrain quality, grade of difficulty and inherent risk,

fitness preparation, role clarity and expectations during program, kit-list, timelines with route

details and itinerary, emergency contact information

• Pre-programme information should clearly state limitations existing in the programme (like

possible aborting of progress due to weather/terrain related changes, lack of electronic –

communication due to lack of coverage and non-availability of helicopter rescue).

• Details of logistics and communication to be documented and shared with participants and

parents of participating children. This document will especially make a mention of a) emergency

response plan and b) one/two telephone numbers of the Organisation and name of person to

be contacted for updates/emergencies/etc.

• Briefing prior to an activity: activity information, safety rules & norms, role clarity of all persons

present along with expectations from participants, instruction (if necessary) along with

demonstration, idea about possible consequences of not sticking to expectations and safety

rules & norms, obtaining acknowledgement of understanding key points of briefing

• Continued instruction during activity to coach and mentor for safe and enjoyable performance

of participants

• Feedback: For operations and to individuals that participants have interacted with.

2.1.3 Communication with other outdoor organizations for networking

• Exchange of ideas and best practices, sharing success stories and analyzed data on critical

incidents to learn from each other

• Seminars and discussion forums, especially on topics related to risk management and

organizational development

• Contribution to associate-initiatives that help enhance overall effectiveness and safety in

outdoor operations

• Network on a wider spectrum – with overseas organizations in order to facilitate technology-

knowledge-transfer and exchange programmes for staff/members

2.1.4 Communication with requisite government authorities

• Compliance related: finance, taxation, legal

• Actively seeking information on developments related to outdoors and schemes that benefit

outdoor organizations

• Actively contribute in State initiatives that work toward the betterment of adventure operations,

especially those related to minimizing risk


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• Evidence of Communication with Participants providing necessary information as per the

Guidelines.

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08 Equipment r 3 Page 1 of 5

Section 8

Equipment Storage, Maintenance and Inspection

1.0 The Organization shall implement mechanism to maintain its equipment. This shall include Preventive

Maintenance, Storage Conditions, Frequency and mechanism for Inspection of equipment, replacement

criteria, method for disposal of outdated and damaged equipment and criteria for Quality Purchases.

2.0 Guidelines

2.1 The details of Equipment used for the activity is as follow

Sr

No

Type of

equipment

Category Material Standard

1 Connectors

{Carabiner (Plain

gate, Lock gate )}

PPE (Technical

Equipment)

Metal (Aluminum, Carbon

Steel & Stainless Steel)

EN12275, UIAA 12I

2 Rock Piton PPE (Technical

Equipment)

Metal (Carbon steel,

Titanium, & Stainless steel)

EN569, UIAA 122

3 Nut (Climbing ) PPE (Technical

Equipment)

Metal (Aluminum, Titanium

& others )

EN12270, UIAA 124

4 Hex-centric PPE (Technical

Equipment)

Metal (Aluminum, Titanium

& others)

EN12270, UIAA 124

5 Spring loaded

camming devices

(SLCD)

PPE (Technical Safety

Equipment)

Metal (Aluminum, Titanium) EN 12276, UIAA 125

6 Dynamic Rope

(climbing Rope)

PPE (Technical

Equipment)

Textile EN 892, UIAA101

7 Static ropes PPE (Technical

Equipment)

Textile EN 1891, UIAA 107

9 Quick draws

(Q.D.S)

PPE (Technical

Equipment)

Textile EN 566,UIAA104

10 Sling/Tape PPE (Technical

Equipment)

Textile EN 566/565,UIAA104/103

11 Helmet PPE (Technical

Equipment)

Polymer and Carbon fiber EN 12492,UIAA106

12 Basic Belay

Devices

Technical Equipment Metal (Aluminum ) EN(IN PREPARATION),UIAA

130

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Sr

No

Type of

equipment

Category Material Standard

13 RAPPEL DEVICES

(FIG

‘8’DESCENDERS)

Technical Equipment

(friction)

Metal (Aluminum, Titanium) EN(IN PREPARATION),UIAA

129

14 Pulleys Technical Equipment Metal (Aluminum) EN 12278, UIAA 127

15 Nut tool / Nut key Technical Equipment Metal (Carbon steel,

Titanium)

Not applicable

16 Rock climbing

Shoes

Non Technical

Equipment

Textile (leather) and

Rubber

Not applicable

17 Chalk Non Technical

Equipment

Magnesium carbonate Not applicable

18 Sleeping Bags Non Technical

Equipment

Textile Not applicable

19 Tents Non Technical

Equipment

Textile Not applicable

Note 1 -

PPE - Personal Protection Equipment

Note 2 - All the PPE equipments should be UIAA/EN/CE standards.

Equipments mentioned above are suggestive.

It should be selected as per the need of the event.

2.2 Storage of Equipment

All technical equipment used in the delivery of Adventurous Activities must be designated as ‘Fit for Purpose’ by

an appropriately qualified ‘technical advisor’. In addition, following care must be taken for storage of

equipment.

• It should be used and stored in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.

• It should be visually checked by a qualified person on each occasion before they are used.

• The use of the equipment should be monitored and recorded in a log book.

• It should be tested periodically.

• Proper records relating to each equipment in the store must be maintained. These records should include -

Date of purchase, Discard date (shelf or usage life as per manufacturer’s guidelines), Checking and testing

policy, Checking & testing records, Name and signature of person carrying out checks & tests.

• It should be stored in a well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight (UV).

• Any contact with harsh or corrosive substances (e.g. acids) is prohibited. If you have a doubt, retire your

equipment.

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• Never store gear in a damp place where mold can develop (damp closets, bags and waterproof

containers with moisture inside). For long-distance travel, beware of moisture in containers during transit, in

ports or airports, especially in salty environments.

2.3 Maintenance of Equipment

In broad terms this can be divided into:

2.3.1 Non-technical equipment

Camp cookware, waterproofs, hats, gloves, walking boots, rucksacks, fleece tops and bottoms, orienteering kit,

maps & compasses.

Management of non technical equipment can be a relatively easy if time consuming task i.e. cleaning and

drying after use, carrying out small repairs or making decisions on when to discard /replace items when they

have reached the end of their useful life. The condition of non-technical items may have implications for the

comfort of the user but should not have major safety implications. An individual without high levels of experience

or technical skill could reasonably make decisions on the item’s suitability.

2.3.2.Technical equipment including Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) must adhere to EN/UIAA standards.

Mountain Sports: Harnesses, ropes and other climbing gear including equipment for artificial rock walls and all

associated equipment.

Any other equipment designed for adventurous activities in which specialist training is normally required.

Technical equipment needs regular maintenance over and above the checks carried out prior to or after each

use. Items may need adjustment by a qualified person before each use and for some items (eg climbing ropes),

careful logging of each use. Failure or inappropriate use of an item is likely to have a direct impact on the safety

of the individual user. The management of technical equipment requires a higher level of skill, knowledge and

experience and should only be undertaken by individuals who are trained and qualified in the activity that the

equipment relates to and/or have had technical training in relation to the specific tasks involved in its

maintenance and management.

Washing

Recommendations for washing are indicated for each product family.

Drying

• Remove your gear from packs after each activity, even if cleaning isn't necessary.

• Let all your gear air-dry away from UV sources (ultraviolet rays).

• Avoid proximity to heat sources such as direct sunlight, wood fires, or a radiator

2.4 Inspection

The inspection of this product should be done with the manufacturer technical notice(recommendation)

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2.4.1 Historical Checks :

The results of this PPE inspection are provided to you subject to the condition that the components to be

inspected do not come into any of the categories listed below, any of which would require systematic rejection

of the component, namely:

• Component has undergone modification or alteration outside the manufacturer’s production units.

• Component has received forces from a fall of factor 1 or more.

• Component has been used in temperatures of less than -40 ºC or greater than +80 ºC.

• Component has exceeded it’s lifetime.

The inspector accepts no responsibility in the case of omission or inaccuracy in the information concerning the

checking of the components history, which must be done by the client.

• Visual check of safety components

• Condition of the webbing (cuts, wear, burns, marks, chemical contamination)

• Condition of load-bearing stitching (cut, worn, torn or pulled threads)

• Condition of metal pieces (deformation, marks, cracks, wear, corrosion)

• Condition of the adjustment buckles (deformation, marks, cracks, wear, corrosion)

Check of comfort components

• Condition of the protection components (string, protective cover)

Compatibility check

• Condition and compatibility of the connector (see connector form)

Operational check

• Operation of adjustment system

• Check of the locking system

Maintenance of Equipment Log :

Verdict (tick) : This product is fit to remain in service (PASS) This product is unfit to remain in service (FAIL)

C: Comment (see below) / G: Good / TM: To Monitor / TR: To Repair / R: Reject

Date of inspection: Date of next inspection:

Inspected by: (name) on behalf of: (company)

Signature:

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2.5 Retirement Criteria

Retiring products at the end of their lifetime . Organization makes sure to retire your gear when necessary.

A product must be retired when:

• It is over 10 years old and made of plastic or textiles

• It has been subjected to a major fall or load

• It fails to pass inspection

• Its reliability is in question

• Its entire history is not known (e.g. found or second-hand product)

• When it becomes obsolete due to changes in legislation, standards, technique or incompatibility with other

equipment, etc.

Warning: destroy retired equipment to prevent further use.

3.0 Verification

• Quality of Equipment used

• Equipment Log

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09 Service Providers r 2

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Section 9

Control over Service Providers

1.0 The Organization shall exercise adequate control over its Service Providers in order to minimize risks

(See xx) associated with the activities conducted by the organisation. The Organization should

ensure that the safety aspects and quality of their programs are not compromised by utilizing

outsourced services from service providers.

The mechanism shall include criteria for selection of Service Providers, Communication regarding

Organization’s expectations on Safety aspects, including clarity about liabilities.

The organization shall issue written Work orders to its Service Providers for Critical Services with respect

to Safety.

2.0 Guidelines

2.1 Selection Criteria for Service Providers

The Organization shall determine criteria for selection of its Service Providers and ensure that the

Service Contractors are selected on its basis.

2.2 Where outsourced services are obtained for the conduct of adventure activities, the service provider

should, if possible, be registered as proposed by the EC of AMGM Guide lines.(Ref Section 4)

• In case of an unregistered outsourced service provider (who could have been registered in the

respective states / countries), the contracting organization should ensure that the outsourced

service provider has the individuals involved in delivery of the adventure activities and who meet

the skills and competency criteria proposed by the EC of AMGM Guide lines. The said individuals

are conversant with the risks associated with that activity, know the activity locality thoroughly,

and have the requisite permits, if any, to operate in the area.

• The SOPs for the activity outsourced should be explained to, understood by and agreed by the

outsourced service provider. The detailed briefing / explanation should include best and safe

practices, risk evaluation and mitigation, participant instructions, instructor/participant ratio,

action plan in case of mishap or a near-miss, communication and evacuation plans etc.

• There should be complete clarity regarding the respective roles and responsibilities of the

contracting organization and outsourced service provider, especially with regard to first aid,

emergency communication and evacuation.


• Work Orders issued to Service Providers

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10.1 Field Guideline for Trekking r 1

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Section 10.1

Field Guidelines for Trekking

1.0 Activity Covered: Trekking, Scrambling and Hiking at High altitude, Desert, Coastal, Sahyadri and

other geographical areas.

2.0 Instructions: Trekking, Scrambling and Hiking in the Sahyadri and other geographical areas.

• Every Trek / Hike needs to be graded depending upon the level of difficulty. Method suggested is

as follows:

C: Easy hike/ trek with no technical difficulty foreseen

B : Strenuous hike/ trek and/or with some technical difficulty.

A : Very strenuous hike/ trek and with technical difficulties.

• A Leader, Co-Leader and Supporting Leaders are to be appointed as per the requirement

based on the difficulty level of that particular trek/hike.

• Organisers and Leaders need to be aware of access restrictions of the specific area and they

are expected to seek advice and permissions as necessary.

• Leaders are suggested to have sufficient knowledge of and expected to respect local tradition

and show interest in the social history to provide a stimulating and interesting trek / hike.

• A copy of the detailed planning including route detail and details of the members of the group

will be kept in the office of the organisation.

• It is expected from the leader to act as the role model for the participants. It is of vital

importance that the instructions given to the participants are followed by the leaders themselves

Leaders will hold the relevant qualification or equivalent Area Specific basic knowledge.

• It is strongly suggested that a Leader has certain skills and qualifications as explained in the “Skills

and Competencies Recommended by EC of AMGM” on page XXX.

2.1 Participant to Leader Ratio :

Apart from Leader and co-leader, the availability of support leaders will determine the group size.

The ratio will vary with the grade of the trek. The standard ratio is as under:-

• Grade ‘C’ treks - 8:1 (maximum group size has no limit as long as this ratio is maintained)

• Grade ‘B’ treks – 5:1 (maximum Group Size 25 including leaders)

• Grade ‘A’ treks – 3:1 (maximum Group Size 25 including leaders)

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2.2 Information to be obtained from participants:

It is strongly advised to gather following information from the Participants at the time of enrollment for

treks.

• Name of the participant

• Phone no.

• In Case of Emergency (ICE) Contact Number

• Address

• Email Address

• Previous hiking etc. experience

• Blood group

• Relevant medical history

2.3 Trek Briefs:

Different briefs as following are highly recommended to organise a safe Trek and to improve

communication and comfort level between the Organisation and Participant.

2.4 Pre Trek Brief by Organisers to Participants: It would include following points

• Name of the Trek

• Date and Duration of the Trek

• Contribution / fees charged

• Inclusions and exclusions in the amount charged

• Brief Info of the Objective of the trek / hike: about the places to be visited and potential Risks

and Difficulties

• Departure and Arrival Time: It will also include mode of transport

• Brief Program: Tentative schedule, expected time log (e.g. 4 hrs climb etc)

• Rules & Regulations of the Organisation for the conduct of the activity

• Expected dress code

• Kit list of items for participants

• Emergency contact numbers: The numbers in case family members of the participants want to

enquire/ inform in case of emergency.

Important: Request to Participants to leave a printout of this Pre-Trek brief with someone at home.

2.5 Introductory Brief by the leaders to the participants

• Self Introduction, Declaration that the leader is the authority on the trek.

• Roles and responsibilities of leader and participants

• Brief Introduction of the Organisation

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• Declaration of Co-Leader and Support leaders

• Identification of hazards expected on route

• Request participants to inform the leaders about any discomfort they are facing

• Information about the importance of Hydration

• Information about blisters and hot spots and how to avoid them

• Time schedule of the trek

• Geographical information

• Ask participants to disclose any specific medical problem like epilepsy, asthma, hypertension,

diabetes, etc.

• Safety of people

• Safety of environments

• Social behaviour - communication with villagers etc.

• Emergency response mechanism. (Refer Annexure XXXX)

• Finally seek confirmation if they have understood the instructions

• Take signatures on Risk certificate or disclaimer.

• Inform participants about availability of a medical kit

• Information on calling signals

• General instructions to participants regarding how to walk on a trail and on difficult patches.

• Check with participants for their area of expertise which can be helpful to the group during the

trek in general and a crisis in particular

• Important: These brief /relevant points are to be repeated at regular intervals as necessary.

• It is advisable to create a mechanism for Post-Trek Review and Analysis that will help to make

future activities safer and more enjoyable.

3.0 Instructions: Trekking at High Altitude.

• In case of High Altitude Treks it is essential to consider and follow IMF Guidelines (Refer

www,indmount).

4.0 Instructions: Trekking in the Desert (Additional guidelines for Desert Trekking)

• Drinking water: Carry 5 L per person for a full day's hike, and even more on exceptionally hot

days. Water sources may not be available on the trails or in campgrounds. Natural water sources

are few and unreliable, and most are suspected of contamination.

• Flash floods: Be sure to check the weather forecast in advance, otherwise these may catch you

completely by surprise.

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• Weather: Hot days and cold, windy nights rule this region. It is advisable to plan the trek

accordingly and wear suitable clothing. Sudden changes in climatic conditions need to be

anticipated and thus regular updates on weather forecast are to be acquired.

• Complex Orientation: Due to lack of physical landmarks and monotonous uniformity of the land,

it is advisable to follow only marked trails and used defined campsites.

• Many plants of this region are poisonous. They may be dangerous to consume, also one has to

be careful for the possibility of getting scratched by thorns.

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10.2 Camps and Courses r 2

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Section 10.2

Field Guidelines for Camps and Courses

1.0 Activity Covered: Adventure Camps / Rock Climbing Courses / Adventure Camps at High Altitude

2.0 Instructions:

• All technical equipment must be logged in/out of stores, checked for damage before and after

use and any defects reported. Return all equipment to the equipment –in -charge after the session.

Appropriate technical equipment will be used and logged for use. Refer “Equipment” (Ref Section

08)

• Check that all participants and instructors are suitably clothed and equipped.

• Periodic headcount of the group members is necessary

• Helmets must be worn by participants and instructors while doing the activity and also when

present in the activity area.

• There will be an appropriate supervision of participants around the activity area.

• It is advisable to create a mechanism for Post-Activity Review and Analysis that will help to make


• Adequate Water availability needs to be confirmed and it’s management and use needs to be

defined.

• Food supplied during camp needs to be adequate in Quality and Nutritional Value, easy for

digestion and sufficient in Quantity.

• For a Multi Day Camps strict Hygiene and Cleanliness Protocol needs to be established.

• Adequate Sleeping arrangements need to be made. In case of staying in Tents, it needs to be

made sure of the availability of Clean, Waterproof and Strong Tents sufficient in number. Similarly,

clean, warm and proper in size Sleeping Bags to be made available.

2.1 Additional SOPs for Camps at High Altitude

• It is highly recommended that the Instructors must possess experience, skills and knowledge

about:

o The process of acclimatization

o The symptoms and treatment for mountain sickness

o Emergency procedures in the event of acute mountain sickness

2.3 A Doctor who is familiar with Altitude Related Illness is very desirable to be present in the Camp but

at the very least advance arrangements need be made for medical help. Advance arrangements

also need be made for evacuation assistance in case of emergency.

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10.3 Field Guidelines for Rappelling and Valley Crossing r 2

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Section 10.3

Field Guidelines for Rappelling and Valley Crossing

1.0 Activity Covered: Rappelling Camps and Events, Valley Crossing Camps and Events.

2.0 Instructions:

• Select the best site according to weather forecast and safe access.

• A Chief Instructor (Overall In-charge) and other Instructors are to be appointed as per the

requirement based on the difficulty level of that particular Rappelling / Valley Crossing Activity.

• A copy of the detailed planning including location details and details of the members of the group

will be kept in the office of the organisation.

• It is strongly suggested that Chief Instructor has certain Soft Skills (e.g. communication skills,

teaching skills to impart instructions, etc.) and Hard Skills (e.g. Technical Training such as Rope

Fixing) as explained in the “Skills and Competencies” recommended by EC of AMGM in Section 6a.

2.1 Participant to Instructor Ratio :

• As this is Potentially Hazardous Activity a high ratio of 5:1 (Maximum Group Size 25 including

Instructors) is recommended.

2.2 Information to be obtained from participants and Students:

It is strongly advised to gather following information from the Participants at the time of enrolment for

Camp / Event.

• Name of the participant

• Phone no.

• In Case of Emergency (ICE) Contact Number

• Address

• Email Address

• Previous hiking etc. experience

• Blood group

• Relevant medical history

2.3 Event / Camp Briefs:

Different briefs as following are highly recommended to organise a safe Event / Camp and to improve

communication and comfort level between Organisation and Participant.

2.4 Pre Camp / Event Brief by Organisers to Participants: It would include following points

• Nature of the Camp / Event.

• Contribution / fees charged.

• Date and Duration of the Camp / Event.

• Inclusions and exclusions in the amount charged.

• Location and Details of Camp / Event in terms of Objective and Safety Hazards.

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• Potential Risks and Difficulties.

• Departure and Arrival Time: It will also include mode of transport

• Brief Program: Tentative schedule, expected time log.

• Rules & Regulations of the Organisation for conducting the activity.

• Expected dress code.

• Kit list of items for participants.

• Emergency contact numbers: The numbers in case family members of the participants want to

enquire/ inform in case of emergency.

Important: Request to Participants to leave a printout of this Pre- Camp / Event brief with someone at

home.

2.5 Introductory Brief by the Chief Instructor to the participants

• Self Introduction, Declaration that the Chief Instructor is the authority during the Camp / Event.

• Roles and responsibilities of instructors and participants

• Brief Introduction of the Organisation

• Declaration of other instructors

• Identification of hazards expected during the activity.

• Information on the procedures and sequence to be followed during the activity

• Information on calling signals during the activity

• Request participants to inform the leaders about any discomfort they are facing at any point of

time during the activity

• Time schedule

• Geographical information

• Ask participants to disclose any specific medical problem like epilepsy, asthma, hypertension,

diabetes etc

• Emergency response mechanism - As explained in the “Risk Management Recommended by EC

of AMGM” in Section 12.

• Finally seek confirmation if they have understood the instructions

• Take signatures on Risk certificate or disclaimer.

• Inform participants about availability of a medical kit

Important: Procedural Instructions and suggestions are to be repeated as many times as necessary.

• All technical equipment must be logged in/out of stores, checked for damage before and after

use and any defects reported. Return all equipment to the equipment–in-charge after the session.

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Appropriate technical equipment will be used and logged for use. Refer “Equipment”

Recommended by EC of AMGM in Section 8.

• Check that all participants and instructors are suitably clothed and equipped.

• Periodic headcount of the group members is necessary

• Helmets must be worn by participants and instructors while doing the activity and also when

present in the activity area.

• There will be an appropriate supervision of participants around the activity area.

• It is advisable to create a mechanism for Post-Activity Review and Analysis that will help to make


• A rescue kit and system will be readily available at each abseil and valley crossing site. The rescue

kit must be sufficient to, depending on the situation, allow the instructors to reach, to retrieve an

incapacitated participant.

• All instructors must have practiced and mastered rescue techniques.

• In case of Rappelling activity a special care to be taken that the end of the rope must be knotted

to prevent abseiling off the end.

• In case of Valley Crossing activity if Tyrolean Traverse Technique is used, the wire rope of adequate

diameter is to be used with a backup system.

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11 Leave No Trace r 2

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Section 11

Principles of ‘Leave No Trace’ (LNT) for Outdoor Ethics

1.0 The Organization shall induct LNT principles into its organisational culture through consistent

implementation of relevant practices and reviews.

2.0 Guidelines

2.1 Background

The “Leave No Trace” name and program first appeared within the United State Forest Service (USFS)

in Utah in an attempt to deal with visitor impact to the Uinta Mountains. Along with several others

from primarily USFS and National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) who are experts in the field of

Outdoor Education agreed to the initial draft of “Principles of Leave No Trace” in 1987. Further the

Leave No Trace was incorporated in Colorado which was supported by “Sporting Goods

Manufacturers Association’’ (SGMA) and “Outdoor Recreation Coalition of America’’ (ORCA). In

2002 the Leave No Trace Inc. changed its name to “The Leave No Trace Centre for Outdoor Ethics”

to better reflect the organization’s broader scope.

Wilderness Ethics is to enjoy wildland without harming or impacting them. Millions of outdoor

enthusiasts have shared the dream of sustainable outdoor recreation.

The outdoors fraternity and Wildland Recreation Community all over the world full heartedly

embraced the “LNT Principles” and supported imbibing and implementing them in the outdoors. LNT

are the principles and we need to derive appropriate practices to be effective for a particular

environment, especially in the Indian context, natural and socio-cultural aspects.

To learn more and be effective implementers of the LNT principles, the LNT Master Educator, Trainer

and Outreach Program can be completed to achieve the relevant certifications. It is strongly

recommended to implement the LNT principles while conducting Trekking, Mountaineering and

other land based adventure and nature activities organized in Maharashtra and carried out all over.

2.2 Principles of Leave No Trace

2.2.1 Plan and Prepare

• Know the regulations and special concerns for the area you’ll visit.

• Prepare for extreme weather, hazards and emergencies.

• Schedule your trip to avoid times of high use.

• Visit in small groups. Split lager parties into groups of 4-6.

• Repackage food to minimise waste.

• Use map and compass to eliminate the use of rock cairns, flagging or marking points.

2.2.2 Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces

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• Durable surfaces include established trails and camp sites, rock, gravel, dry grasses or snow.

• Protect riparian areas by camping at least 200 feet / 60 meter away from lakes, streams.

• Good campsites are found, not made. Altering a site is not necessary.

In popular areas

• Concentrate use on existing trails and campsites.

• Walk single file in middle of the trail, even when wet or muddy.

• Keep camp site small. Focus activities in the areas where the vegetation is absent.

In pristine areas

• Disperse use to prevent the creation of campsites and trails.

• Avoid places where impacts are just beginning.

2.2.3 Dispose of Waste Properly

• Pack it in, pack it out. Inspect your campsite and rest areas for trash or spilled foods. Pack out all

trash, leftover food and litter.

• Deposit Solid Human waste in cat-holes dug 6 to 8 inches / 15 to 20 cm deep at least 200 feet /

60 meters from water, camp and trails. Cover and disguise the cat-hole when finished.

• Pack out toilet paper and hygiene products.

• To wash yourself or dishes, carry water 200 feet / 60 meter away from streams or lakes and use

small amounts of biodegradable soap. Scatter strained dishwater.

2.2.4 Leave what you find

• Preserve the past: observe, but do not touch cultural or historic structures and artefacts.

• Leave rocks, plants and other natural objects as you find them.

• Avoid introducing or transporting non-native species.

• Do not build structures, furniture or dig trenches.

2.2.5 Minimize Campfire Impacts

• Campfires can cause lasting impacts to the backcountry. Use light weight stove for cooking

and enjoy a candle lantern for light.

• Where fires are permitted, use established fire rings, fire pans or mound fires.

• Keep fires small. Only use sticks from the ground that can be broken by hand.

• Burn all wood and coal to ash, put out campfires completely and then scatter cool ashes.

2.2.6 Respect Wildlife

• Observe wildlife from a distance. Do not follow or approach them.

• Never feed animals. Feeding wildlife damages their health, alters natural behaviours and

exposes them to predators and other dangers.

• Protect wildlife and your food by storing rations and trash securely.

• Control pets at all times or leave them at home.

• Avoid wildlife during sensitive times, mating, nesting, raising young or winter.

2.2.7 Be Considerate of Other Visitors

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• Respect other visitors and protect the quality of their experience.

• Be courteous. Yield to other users on the trail.

• Step to the downhill side of the trail when encountering pack stock.

• Take breaks and camp away from trails and other visitors.

• Let nature’s sound prevail. Avoid loud voices and noises.


• Review records

• Records of Personal Feedback

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Section12

Risk Management

1.0 The Organization shall implement process of Risk management which helps to identify, assess and

mitigate or minimize the Risk factor, which is always present in adventure activities. Risk management

maximizes the ability to deliver on objectives, promotes sound decision making, works to safeguard

participants and organizers including the wellbeing of leaders, instructors and guides and contributes

to meeting community and Government expectations for accountable and responsible way of

conducting adventure activities.

The Organization shall prepare Emergency Response Plan for high risk activities. The Management

shall review and approve ‘Emergency handling and Response Plan’ prior to commencement of the

event or outing.

2.0 Guidelines

2.1 Following procedure is recommended for Risk Management:

1. Define objectives of the program / activity.

2. Study an document relevant rules and regulations specifi to the country/region that the

programme is going to happen. Ensure that all requirements, especially statutory ones, are

complied with.

3. Identify the potential risks and classify by evaluating consequences of the assessed Risk into

categories; Low, Moderate, High, Extreme.

4. Risks are further classified as Loss or Damage to Property, Damage to Environment, Personal

Physical Injury and Damage and Personal Emotional Injury and Damage.

5. Determine the acceptance level of Risk involved.

6. According to classification of Risk, necessary infrastructure is introduced such as requisite

equipment, competent leaders and or instructors. It should also involve necessary external

agencies such as Insurance Companies for monetary compensation to limit the monetary

damage to the participants and organizers.

7. It is necessary to consistently monitor and document the Emergency Handling Mechanism

(mentioned below) is followed during and after the crisis by the overall supervisor.

8. The Analysis of the review is to be communicated to the wider audience in the community to

create awareness and to help in avoiding similar situations.

2.2 All participants and or stakeholders in an activity can be classified into four categories

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1. Novice: almost total lack of knowledge, unaware of possible consequences

2. Apprentice: basic awareness, but needs guidance for decision making

3. Competent: has enough knowledge to take routine decisions but may need directions in crisis.

4. Expert: Competent and has sufficient knowledge and confidence to guide the Risk

Management Procedures; can plan for and prevent adverse consequences

2.3 Risk Management is further complemented by setting criteria for participation and conduction of a

program / activity:

Level of Risks Involved Accepted level of Competency

for Participation

Types of Activities with involved

Risk Levels

Low Novices and Apprentices need

to be accompanied by

Competent and Experts in a

fixed predetermined ratio

For Example easy short or

multiday treks, Adventure

camps, easy high altitude treks

etc

Moderate Novices and Apprentices need

to be accompanied by

Competent and Experts in a

fixed, predetermined but higher

ratio

e.g. Moderately difficult Short or

Multiday Treks, High Altitude

Treks, Rock climbing Courses,

Easy Rock Climbing Expeditions

etc.

High Novices are completely

excluded. Few Apprentices

accompanied by Competent

and Experts in a fixed

predetermined ratio

e.g. Difficult Short or Multiday

Treks, High Altitude Treks, Rock

Climbing Expeditions,

Mountaineering Expeditions etc.

Extreme Novices and Apprentices are

completely excluded.

Competent are accompanied

by one or two Experts.

Very Difficult Rock climbing or

Mountaineering Expeditions etc.

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2.4 Emergency Handling Mechanism is described as follows:

2.4.1 Evaluation (Assessment): qualified person or persons (Expert) specifically designated for the

responsibility of evaluation or assessment and taking a decision about the Emergency Response is

nominated. Mechanism of Responding to Emergency can follow the following path.

Incident Response

Misfortunes (e.g. Blisters,

Thorn Prick etc)

Response Level 1: Leader or the First Aider addresses the issue.

Requisite treatment given. Incident documented. Schedule / Time

Frame impact minimal.

Minor Injuries / Incidents (e.g.

Sprains, wounds etc)

Response Level 2: Qualified First Aider addresses the issue and

administers treatment. Incident documented. External help sought if

necessary. Considerable Impact on Schedule / Time Frame.

Serious Injuries (but not life

threatening) where

evacuation of the casualty is

necessary.

Response Level 3: Qualified First Aider addresses the issue and

administers treatment. Incident documented. External help sought if

necessary. Evacuation procedures acted upon. Major Impact on

Schedule / Time Frame which may lead to abortion of the event.

Fatal / Near Fatal Incidents Response Level 4: Leader along with Qualified First Aider addresses

and evaluates, Emergency Handling Procedures are implemented.

Communication and Evacuation procedures acted upon. Major

Impact on Schedule / Time Frame which leads to abortion of the

event.

2.4.2 Organization shall prepare pre-determined ‘Emergency handling and Response Plan’ for all high risk

activities, which is pre-approved by the management of the organization. This plan is inclusive of

1. Response Protocol assigning responsibilities and Roles of the qualified individuals such as

Rescuers, First Aiders, Communicators, Supervision etc and to determine the path of handling the

crisis.

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2. Making sure the inclusion and availability of Necessary Equipment for Search, Rescue,

Evacuation and Communication in the Group.

3. Making sure the arrangements for Providing First Aid and or Medical Assistance are in place.

4. Making sure that each group has with it requisite amount of ‘emergency-cash’ to help in

handling emergency situations.

5. Communication and Reporting Mechanism will be taking care of the inclusion and availability of

communication equipment e.g. walkie-talkie sets. Also it will ensure the inclusion of specific

support persons e.g. Mail Runners, in case of very remote locations for quick communication and

reporting to the outside world.

6. Rescue and Evacuation Protocols and Procedures clearly defining the steps to be taken in case

of a crisis.

7. Post Incidence Debrief and Review.


• Emergency Response Plan which is pre-approved by the management

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Section 13

Critical Incidents and Complaints

In case of any accident or Critical incident, Apex Body shall nominate a team to analyze the

situation and analyze the root cause.

Organization shall co operate with the Apex Body team and help them in their analysis. Organization

shall take appropriate actions in order to prevent the recurrence of the incident.

AMGM shall forward the details of the incident and actions initiated for its prevention to other

members with the objective to extract learning from the incident.

In case of receipt of complaint regarding violation of Safety Norms from any participant or any other

person, AMGM shall nominate a team for analysis of the situation. The Organization shall co operate

with the team and take appropriate actions based on the recommendations of the Apex Body

team.

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14 Document Revision Mechanism r 3

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Section 14

Document Revision Mechanism

1.0 Changes to the Safety Guidelines

The sections in the ‘Safety Guidelines’ are dynamic in nature and can be revised on the basis of

suggestions from the user community.

The Organizations shall send their requests to the Secretary of EC, AMGM suggesting changes in the

existing Documents with details and justification.

EC shall review the suggestions and appropriate the change if satisfied. In case the suggestions are

accepted, EC shall amend the concerned Section and forward the same to all the concerned with

amended Version status.

Secretary EC, AMGM shall maintain current versions of all sections of this Safety Guidelines.

2.0 The Organization shall receive the revised section of the document and ensure appropriate versions

are adopted for performing adventure activities.

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Section 15

Closing Comments

By Experts Committee Constituted by Akhil Maharahstra Giryarohan Mahasangh

The Experts Committee (EC) has put together in this Document a comprehensive draft of safety guidelines

for “Land Based Adventure Activities (LBAA)”. In addition to this, it has also reviewed the draft of the GR on

safety guidelines for adventure activities proposed by Government of Maharashtra, which was duly

commented upon and corrected by Indian Mountaineering Foundation, and offered its commendations,

suggestions and objections on the same (for LBAA).

The EC has put together all its notes, suggestions and other comments after carefully referring to, studying

and analyzing various documents from organizations like the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India

(Guidelines for ‘Adventure Tour Operators’), Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF), Union Internationale

Des Associations D’Alpinisme (UIAA), British Mountaineering Council (BMC), National Outdoor Leadership

School (NOLS), and American Alpine Mountain Guides Association (AAMGA). The EC has also referred to

the policies on adventure activities being carried out in New Zealand and Australia.

The EC has found that all over the world the adventure activates have only guidelines and codes of

conduct, and are not subjected to rules. As regards to the regulatory mechanism for organizations

conducting such activities it has been observed that, world over, the practice is to have an autonomous

federation / body constituted of representatives of all the stakeholders.

While drafting its draft of safety guidelines, the EC has taken into consideration the following aspects:

• Current scenario of adventure in Maharashtra

• Clarity with proper definitions to the context

• Implementation procedures

• Adaptation by all the stakeholders

During this process, the EC became acutely aware of the fact that Organizations and individuals having

the potential and willingness to follow all recommended actions and processes may not be able to do so

because of the lack of proper infrastructure, e.g. recognized wilderness first aid courses that issue

certificates with period-validity, and local training courses that offer the variety of skills that are not being

covered by the content of the courses offered by the mountaineering institutes in the Himalaya. In this

context, the EC would like to point out the need of a proper training infrastructure for adventure activities in

Safety Guidelines

15 Closing Comments r 2

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the State of Maharashtra, and suggests that this may well be an opportunity for such an institute to be

established. There is also the need to create awareness in the general public (society) about safety in

adventure activities, and to ensure that safe practices are followed.

The EC has also observed that there are operational gaps in the draft of the GR of safety guidelines due to

the non-availability of the execution mechanisms.

In such a situation, all the stakeholders, viz. Government of Maharashtra (GoM), Indian Mountaineering

Foundation (IMF), Akhil Maharashtra Giryarohan Mahasangh (AMGM) Adventure Tourism Operators

Association of Maharashtra (ATOM) and Adventure Tourism Operators Association of India (ATOAI) could

take cognisance of various comments and suggestions made by the EC here under and take appropriate

steps to overcome the operational gaps.

------------

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16 Reference Documents and Templates r 1

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Section 16

Reference Documents and Templates

16.1 Notes for Reference

16.2 Template - CRTICIAL INCIDENT RE IEW

16.3 Template – FEEDBACK

16.4 Template - Leadership Workshop short-duration r 2

16.5 Template - PROGRAMME REVIEW

16.6 Template - ROUTE AND DESCRIPTION PLAN

Note:

These are a few sample ‘notes for reference’ and ‘templates’. Further versions of this

Document will have more comprehensive sets. Organisations may also develop their

own notes and templates from the content of training programmes and books.

Notes for Reference

Acclimatisation

As one gains altitude, there is lower and lower atmospheric pressure which results in lesser and lesser

oxygen available for breathing. Acclimatisation involves the body adjusting to this decreased lower

oxygen content in the thinner air.

The body starts this ‘adjusting process’ as soon as a person starts gaining altitude.

The person has to just support his/her body as it starts the adjusting process.

This adjustment by the body involves the following:

1. Increased heart rate (pulse)

2. Increased respiratory rate

3. Lack of appetite

4. Mildly disturbed sleep

5. Breathlessness on activity (earlier than at sea level)

6. Slight oedema possible (face, hands, legs)

7. Mild lassitude

-------------------------------------------------------------

8. Headache – AMS starts!

The support that the person has to provide to his/her body:

1. Hydrate adequately – keep sipping water, 4-5 litres/day

2. Eat well – appropriate diet, timely input

3. Manage layers appropriately – feel warm and comfortable! Sleep warm!

4. Rest appropriately and adequately

5. Get fresh air, especially when in camp – walk around in the evenings, keep tents ventilated

6. Pace yourself while hiking – walk while you can talk!

7. Monitor self and others –

General feeling

Shortness of breath at rest

Quality of urine

Food intake

Quality of sleep

Evening activity

Tent ventilation

Sleeping bag use

Hotspots while walking

Hygiene – personal and community

8. Prompt action to address signs and symptoms of AMS

In case of AMS, here is a checklist which might help a person understand what action is to be taken to

help patient recover:

1. Water

How much water have you drunk?

How have you been drinking in the last few days? (Sipping or gulping huge quantities)

How much water has been passed out?

Was your urine clear or coloured?

2. Food

What have you been eating?

How frequently? When was the last that you ate? What?

When was the last you pooped? Quality?

Do you experience nausea? Have you vomited?

Do you have any allergy?

3. Layers

How are you feeling? Feeling warm?

Are your clothes dry?

Have you been sleeping warm?

4. Pace

How has the pace been for you? Too fast? Too slow?

Are you feeling short of breath even at rest?

How were you feeling through the last few days’ of altitude gain?

5. Fresh air

Have you been staying inside tents in the evenings? Evening walks?

Has your tent been ventilated adequately?

_______________________________________________________________________

Dehydration

Following extracts are taken from “The Wilderness First Responder” by Buck Tilton, director of Wilderness

Medicine Institute of NOLS, USA

Without water there would be no life – at least any life, as you know it.

Water puddles inside every one of your cells, and flows through the microscopic spaces between cells.

In water, oxygen and nutrients float to all parts of your body, and waste products are carried away.

When your kidneys remove waste from your body those wastes have to be dissolved in water. Digestion

and metabolism are water-based processes, and water is the primary lubricating element in your joints.

You even need water to breathe, your lungs requiring moisture to expedite the transfer of oxygen into

blood and carbon dioxide out of blood. Sweat, as mentioned, is mostly water. The water in your blood

carries heat from warmer body parts to cooler areas of your anatomy when you are exposed to cold.

In short, if you aren’t well hydrated, you won’t be able to stay healthy, maximize your performance, or

even maintain joy at being outdoors.

The water in your body, the fluid that keeps you alive and active, leaves you at an alarming rate.

Estimates vary widely, but an average person at rest on a normal day loses between two and three

litres of water. One to one-and-a-half litres rushes out as urine, and another one-tenth litre in

defecation. Moisture is lost from act of breathing, more than half a litre per day, and that rate increases

in dry winter air.

Then there’s sweat. The fluid lost in perspiration can climb to one to two litres per hour during periods of

strenuous exercise. Compared to watching TV all day, one hour of exercise may demand

approximately a 50 percent increase in the amount of water your body uses.

Your thirst mechanism, that feeling of ”Gosh, I need a drink of water”, doesn’t kick in until you’re about

one to one-and-a-half litres low. Down three to four litres can leave your endurance decreased to 50

percent and your oxygen uptake reduced close to 25 percent…

_______________________________________________________________________________

The following are notes from The Wilderness Medicine Institute of The National Outdoor Leadership

School, U.S.A.

DEFINING HYPOTHERMIA

Why is it taught that hypothermia occurs whenever someone is shivering or their temperature drops by

a degree or two? I’ve read in several medical texts that the definition of hypothermia is a core body

temperature below 95F (35C). (A question from a student in a course I'm teaching)

Yes, if you read the medical literature on hypothermia it’s common to see a threshold for hypothermia

at 95F (35C). As a medical geek I like to probe the origins of stuff like this. The best I can figure this

norm was described by British researchers in the 1960’s and has become a commonly shared criterion.

It is fine and dandy for researchers or medical personnel with access to advanced life support to

anchor their work at this point, but it’s not the world in which we manage hypothermia. We don’t work

in rescue helicopters or emergency rooms with physicians, nurses and the benefits of medical

technology, or inside a controlled physiology laboratory. We have to manage cold people in the

wilderness.

We teach people to recognize hypothermia from subtle and early clues such as impaired ability to

perform complex tasks, fine motor shivering, apathy, confused and sluggish thinking, slurred speech,

stumbling, and "the umbles" (patient grumbles, fumbles and stumbles). We do this because we know it’s

much easier to stay warm than to warm a cold person.

Compared to the scientist our definition of hypothermia is loose. We call people hypothermic who are

probably only stressed by the cold, or are cold and unhappy, or who are simply having trouble coping

with the environmental conditions. I’d imagine if we could measure the temperature of our

“hypothermic” students we would find it only decreased a degree or two, if at all.

It doesn’t matter that our patient’s temperature may be higher than a clinical definition. It’s not

important in the field to know the patient’s temperature. What’s important is to be self-aware of your

physical state and vigilant of how your companions are faring in the cold. What’s important is acting

early and aggressively to stay warm, rather than needing to rewarm to cold person. We can treat this

early stage of hypothermia, these cold stressed people in the wilderness. A hypothermia wrap, a good

meal and some warm fluids often are just what the doctor ordered. What we can’t afford to miss,

because it’s much harder to manage in the field, is real hypothermia.

Responsibility of outdoors people: to recognise early signs and symptoms of ‘mild’ hypothermia, and

immediately take steps to prevent this stage from developing into ‘moderate’ hypothermia and

‘severe’ hypothermia.

_______________________________________________________________________________

Blisters

Best prevented than treated! And easily prevented. Here is a cryptic description of the phenomenon

called blisters.

Blister is a heat (friction) injury – caused by the rubbing of the shoe against the skin. Following steps

taken will prevent blisters:

1. Shoes snugly fitting and well-broken in (snugly: not so loose and not so tight).

2. Two pairs of socks – nylon inner and thicker material outer. Socks should be well fitting and not

prone to creasing.

3. Keeping the feet as dry as possible. Change socks regularly. Dry used socks in the sun or with

body heat (inside the sleeping bag at night).

4. Be aware of a ‘hot spot’ developing on a foot – this could fast blossom into a glorious blister. A

simple padding on a hot spot transfers the friction on that pad instead of your skin. One just has

to overcome laziness to get that pad in. The pad can be a medical tape.

Template

CRTICIAL INCIDENT REVIEW

Name of Organisation ________________________________________________________________

Event/Programme description _________________________________________________________

Location __________________________________________________________________________

Leader ____________________________ Co-leader(s) _____________________________________

Participant profile ___________________________________________________________________

Incident description (be concise, stick to facts, identify causes, state consequences & action taken)

__________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

ROOT CAUSE ANALYSIS

Risk assessment (identify environmental factor, state human action that led to Incident)

Hazard____________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

Human action ______________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

Conclusion _________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

Learning __________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

Action recommended to prevent recurrence of such an Incident in future ______________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

Template

FEEDBACK

Feedback: information which communicates the impact of someone’s actions on you or a situation

Organisations which value the well-being of their staff/members and aspire for growth through self-awareness

and development of people incorporate a culture of feedback in their functioning. Giving and receiving

feedback is a skill that needs to be learned through conceptual understanding and practice. It is recommended

that the terms ‘positive’ and ‘constructive’ feedback be used.

Characteristics if effective feedback

- Growth oriented

Is aimed at a ‘better future’

Acknowledgement that receiver will ultimately choose whether to function differently or not

Receiver told what he/she should continue to do or change

- Timely

Close in time to the event

Usually best if given after an event; to be given during the event only of consequences of some action

are going to be critical

At a time and place when receiver is ready to hear

- Specific

Behaviour/action described in a clear way

Feedback is direct – not ‘softened’ to an extent where meaning is lost

- Showing cause-and-effect relationships

‘When you did this, it resulted in this’

- Preserves dignity

Behaviour/action stated as distinct from identity – no judgmental statements on person

Mood is generally upbeat – not aggressive or suppressive

- Inquires

Questions asked to seek clarity

Giver shows intent to learn as well as tell

Giver keen to understand how his/her behaviour/actions impacted receiver

- Use of ‘I’ and ‘you’ language

Avoidance of generalising (e.g. ‘everyone thinks...’)

Readiness to own statements and be open to different perspectives

SUGGESTED MECHANISM OF FEEDBACK

One person to be given feedback by two colleagues: Continue-Change-Stop Method

Continue Behaviour, way of functioning to be continued by receiver

Change Behaviour, way of functioning to be changed/modified, with giver giving specific suggestions

Stop Behaviour, way of functioning to be preferably stopped, with clarity on unwanted consequences

Template

Leadership Workshop

Participants: Members who lead and co-lead weekend hikes

Topics to be addressed during the workshop:

1. Fitness

Criteria regarding ‘fitness’ for a weekend hike leader

The ‘why’ of being fit

Practical session: introduction to stretching exercises including some yogasanas,

especially those pertinent to preparation for hiking and end-of-day recovery

Discussion on diet for hikers – discussed separately

2. Technical competence (footing, scrambling, basic rock moves for help on steep

terrain, basic rope work)

Footing: What care needs to be taken to ensure that participants get some inputs

consciously (e.g., the ‘resting step’, safety concerns like slippery surfaces and stepping

on outer edges of paved stones, defining ‘easy pace’, etc.)

Scrambling: definition, need for this skill on weekend hikes, skills needed, leaders’ role,

and safety concerns

Rock moves: ditto as above

Basic rope work: need for this skill on weekend hikes, expectations, conceptual clarity

(friction, the ‘why’ of a certain technique of belaying, etc.), anchor station for a top rope

& rappel (with related aspects like knots).

River crossing: need for this skill on weekend hikes, basic ‘hydrodynamics’ (so as to

understand why a technique works and is safe), expectations, introduction to river

crossing techniques with practice runs (either dry or in actual flowing water).

3. First aid skills: practice sessions on basic, simple and crucial topics

Emphasis on: conceptual clarity and practical. Topics: dehydration, heat injuries

including blisters, cold injuries, stings & bites, sprains-strains-and-fractures. Discussion

and procedure for response to emergency.

4. Communication skills (briefing, person-dependent communication, necessary

paper work)

The need to make briefings ‘interesting’ so as to be effective (so the maximum number

of participants understand safety aspects, expectations from them, etc.).

Key conceptual aspects will be introduced; e.g., communication gap, and learning styles.

Discussion on the need for different communicating styles for a disparate group.

Practical sessions: some participants of the workshop will be invited to ‘present briefing’

and will receive feedback on their presentation.

5. Leadership within leader-team (staying healthy, being consultative when

required, being a role model to each other, seniors contributing to the growth of

juniors)

‘Staying healthy’ refers to the teamwork within the leaders’ team: this will be touched

upon with a clear focus (why of it, some aspects with examples, etc.). Role clarity

(and responsibilities) to be discussed: for both, field leaders and support persons in the

office. Other points as listed in the previous paragraph.

6. Leadership of the group (role modeling, communicating appropriately and at

appropriate times, generating comfort in terms of technical aspects, being

capable of handling emergencies – medical as well as non-medical, maintaining

dignity of all throughout)

Additional point: ‘time and group management’ on trail: evolving a system that will

help keep the group together on trail.

7. Admin-responsibilities with respect to club’s expectations and processes

Need and importance for pre-hike and post-hike ‘formalities’ to be clarified and

emphasized. Invitation to all to extend ‘good practices’ being practiced by some leaders

(like spending time with participants at destination pouring over the region’s map,

drawing sketch-map of place visited, etc.).

8. Environment safety issues

Few topics that could be immediately managed by leaders will be taken up: a) waste

management: human waste and kitchen waste, b) sensitivity to ‘water’ encountered in

various forms while hiking in the Sahyadri, c) relevant socio-cultural aspects.

9. ‘Food management’

Different types of stoves needed depending on the group size, food quantities with

respect to group size for a day/multi-day trek.

Template

PROGRAMME REVIEW

Date ___________________

Name of Organisation ________________________________________________________________________

Programme description ______________________________________________________________________

Location ___________________________________________________________________________________

Leader ____________________________ Co-leader(s) _____________________________________________

Participant profile ___________________________________________________________________________

Write briefly. Use data to illustrate comments. Be objective. Avoid judgmental statements. Suggest only for

betterment of programme. State things that worked well and areas for improvement.

1. Planning. What did we do well? What could we have done differently?

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

2. Goals. Did we achieve stated goals? To what extent? What could we have done differently?

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

3. Risk management. What did we do well? What could we have done differently?

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

4. Leadership. What did leaders do well? What could they have done differently?

(State any feedback given to specifically to leaders)

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

5. Teamwork. What did we do well? What could we have done differently?

(State any feedback given to specifically to any team member)

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

6. Incident of significance (could be a critical incident)

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

7. Summarise feedback received from programme participants and anyone else associated with this

programme

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

8. What are our learnings? What will we do differently in the future in such a programme as well as

elsewhere?

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

ROUTE AND DESCRIPTION PLAN

Date: ____________

Name of Organisation ________________________________________________________________

Event/Programme description _________________________________________________________

Leader ____________________________ Co-leader(s) _____________________________________

Origin (major landmark and description of location & if possible, map coordinates or GPS reading)

__________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

Destination (major landmark & description of location & if possible, map coordinates or GPS reading)

__________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

Distance (estimated or from documented figure or measured on map) _________________________

Elevation gain (estimated or from documented figure or measured on map) ____________________

Time estimated for stated distance _____________________________________________________

Expected Time of Departure (ETD) ______________________________________________________

Expected Time of arrival (ETA) _________________________________________________________

Route description (mention terrain type, route information, landmarks on the way, elevation gains-

drops, expected hazards (e.g. streams/rivers, rockfall/landslide, rain/snow, etc.)

__________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

Contingency plan (back-up plan) _______________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

Safety Guidelines

17 References r 1

Page 1 of 1

Rev 1711 2013

Section 17

References

1. Definition from UIAA POLICY ON THE PRESERVATION OF NATURAL ROCK FOR ADVENTURE CLIMBING

Updated version from 10.01.2013

2. UIAA Safety Standards: http://theuiaa.org/safety_standards.php

3. UIAAMountainEthicsDeclaration2009(3)

4. UIAA Code of practice for high altitude guided commercial expeditions, Approved by UIAA

General Assembly Malacca October 1998

5. UIAA Comparison Table UIAA and EN Standards requirements March2013

6. UIAA The ethical code Principles and Practice for Expeditions. Text adopted by the UIAA Advisory

Committee and the General Assembly in Marrakesh, 9th October 1987.

7. Climbing and mountaineering guidebooks for international use: The UIAA guidebook standards

UIAA General Assembly, St. Johann imPongau, Austria, 13 October 2001

8. UIAAtyrol declaration(Adopted by the Future of Mountain Sports Conference, Innsbruck,

September 6 – 8, 2002)

9. Petzl protecting equipment tips

10. Risk management for Outdoor Programs for administrators in British Columbia.

11. The Principles of Leave No Trace Outdoor Ethics: www.lnt.org

12. “Guidelines for adventure Tour Operators” – ministry of Tourism, Government of India / revised

w.e.f. 2nd Jan. 2012

13. “Guidelines for activity safety in schools” / 0731049640 / Oct. 1999

14. “Outdoor Adventure Activities – Policy &Mandatory Procedures” / OAA2009O8 / 2009

15. “Risk Management for Outdoor Programmes” / 2003 - Prepared by the Centre for Curriculum,

Transfer and Technology and the BC Adventure Tourism Programs Articulation Committee (British

Columbia)

16. “Serious Adventure” – a Report by the Task Force set up by the ministry of Tourism, Australia

17. “Leadership Educator Notebook”

18. SOPs devised by Chakram Hikers, Mulund for the good conduct of Trekking Programmes, April 2010

19. Desert Trekking: http://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Hiking_in_the_Judaean_Desert#Guidelines

20. Costal Trekking: http://californiacoastaltrail.info/cms/pages/trail/done.html

21. High Altitude Trekking and Camps: Recommendations for care to be taken by Persons,

Organizations, Clubs or Tour Operators conducting out-door activities, adventure treks and

training-camps published by the Himalayan Club. April 1999.

22. High Altitude Trekking: Guidelines about High Altitude Trekking formed by IMF, 2012,

www.indmount.org

23. Dos and Don’ts Published by IMF, 2012, www.indmount.org

24. Mountaineering: Guidelines about Mountaineering Expeditions formed by IMF, 2012,

www.indmount.org

Safety guidelines nov 13

Education

Transcript of Safety guidelines nov 13