Bouldering Activities - Lihou

NOTE: This document is to be used in conjunction with the Emergency Action Plan (EAP) for the above named activity and location

Venue Information

· There are numerous rocky outcrops suitable for bouldering on Lihou Island. Some of these outcrops are tidal and others not

· The tidal outcrops are stable with no loose rock

· The non tidal outcrops can sometimes have loose rocks

· Tidal outcrops are by definition subject to flooding twice a day and as such can be slippery and often have poor and uneven surfaces beneath them

· Land outcrops tend to be surrounded by maritime sward but can still have protrusions that need consideration

Facilities Information

· Lihou house is the only property on the island and as such is the only facility available

· Lihou house is approximately 450 metres from Venus pool and accessible only when occupied by a group in residence

· Within Lihou house there is a first aid station that is equipped with a large first aid kit, eye wash facilities and a defibrillator

Bouldering  Activities

· To be carried out in accordance with these NOP’s and in conjunction with a current risk assessment relevant to the group and a Emergency Action Plan that is familiar to all

· Only British Mountaineering Council (BMC) Single Pitch Award (SPA) or above qualified instructors are permitted to lead groups on the crag given its remote location

· Bouldering problems should not be higher than four metres and spotters should be used at all times

· Padding or mats should be used to protect the base of any problems

Emergency Equipment

· Fist Aid Kit

· Group shelter

· Mobile telephone

Communications and Parameters

· Voice commands established and understood

· Waiting area established

· Nobody to leave the activity area without approval from the person overseeing the activity

In the Event of an Incident or Emergency

· Refer to the EAP (attached)

Maximum Permitted Climber to Staff Ratio

· Maximum 1:8 unless weather, activity or ability of students dictates higher ratios

· Ability of climbers should be known beforehand but if not, assessed under close supervision during bouldering warm ups and easier climbs

· Locally qualified Education Council Instructors with prior local knowledge may assist and under such circumstances ratios may rise to 2:12

Participants' Equipment and Clothing

· Helmets to be worn by all participants

· All participants should have with them a rucksack containing suitable clothing for the conditions as well as a spare jumper.

· Correctly fitting training shoes or walking boots

· No jewellery (including rings and expensive watches) or dangly clothing ties to be worn