Climbing & Abseiling Venus Pool Crag - 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

· Venus Pool Crag is, at its highest, 18 metres high. There are numerous smaller climbs of around 9 metres +

· The rock is stable granite with some lichen growth

· The venue can be sensitive around bird breeding times

· Anchors are large and secure but can be distant so static rigging ropes should be used where needed

· Access to and from the base of the crag is easy but parts are not visible to session instructors operating the equipment

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

Climbing 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

Emergency Equipment

· Fist Aid Kit

· Whistle

· Group shelter

· Mobile telephone

· Other items such as extra warm clothing and a flask should also be close at hand but can be in the house for resident groups

Communications and Parameters

· Voice commands established and understood - Recognised climbing calls

· 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 at all times by participants and staff

· 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

Aerial Photograph of Lihou Island and Venus Pool Crag

NOTE:

Venus Pool Crag is exposed to the elements and sessions should be planned with this in mind. High winds and rough seas can be both dangerous and intimidating. It is not recommended to climb or abseil in such conditions.

The main part of the crag is tidal. Climbing and abseiling is not possible over the high water period. The rock at the base of the crag also becomes slippery when wet and this should also be taken into consideration when planning a session.

Access to and from the base of the crag is possible and easy both from the north and south. However the southern access is preferable as the route is less steep and the participants are out of site less.