The following advice raising issues pertinent to all outdoor activity has been published at Fatal accident inquiry report into three deaths – Aonach Eagach ridge, Glencoe | Adventure RMS:
“The report into the tragic fatal accident of an instructor and two clients on the Aonach Eagach ridge in August 2023 has been published by the Scottish Courts at SHERIFFDOM OF SHERIFF COURT
“The report will be of particular interest to Mountain instructors and guides, but the Sheriff highlighted three areas which are relevant to all adventure activity providers.
“These three issues have also been identified as relevant in other fatal accidents (see, for example, the earlier safety management update about a coasteering fatality).
“Issues raised
- Information provided to participants prior to activities. Do your participants understand what they are going to do and the safety implications of the activity?
- Suitability of equipment. If you meet participants at an activity venue and they provide any of their own equipment (e.g. footwear), what arrangements do you have to ensure this is suitable, or for amending activities if it isn’t?
- Leader’s knowledge of participant abilities and attitudes. Does your programme allow for leaders to assess the capabilities of participants before becoming committed? How do you ensure that activities are matched to the participants needs and abilities?”