Draft B 14 June 2007

Version 1 June 2009

Tasmanian Adventure Activity Standard River Rafting

Advice for Organisations, Guides and Leaders

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IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER

The information contained in this publication has been gathered through widespread consultation across the outdoor recreation industry. Nevertheless, the Tasmanian Adventure Activity Standards (AAS) are general in nature and should not be relied upon to meet individual or specific requirements. They are recommendations for voluntary application to adventure activity providers.

The AAS will not, and are not, intended to cover each and every circumstance of an adventure activity. Nor can they, when adhered to, entirely eliminate the risk or possibility of loss or injury. Consequently, they should be used as a guide only. Whenever using the information contained in this AAS, providers should carefully evaluate the specific requirements of the intended activity and the persons participating in it and act accordingly. If necessary, providers should obtain advice from suitably experienced and qualified professionals.

This AAS and the information it contains are made available on the express condition that the Crown in Right of Tasmania, its officers, employees and agents, and the consultants and advisors who have assisted in compiling and drafting it, are not rendering professional advice to any person or organisation and make no warranties with respect thereto, and to the maximum extent permitted by law disclaim all liability for loss or injury however arising, including liability for negligence, from the use of or reliance upon this AAS.

Tasmanian Adventure Activity Standard – River Rafting

Drafted by Tony McKenny for Sport and Recreation Tasmania

Endorsed by Tasmania’s outdoor recreation and adventure tourism sectors

Supported by the Tasmanian Government

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PREFACE

Anyone conducting an outdoor adventure activity for a group of dependant participants has a duty-of-care to those participants for the safe conduct of the activity. This Adventure Activity Standard (AAS) has been developed to assist organisations, trip/group leaders and guides to plan and safely undertake outdoor adventure activities with dependant participants (see Definitions 5.1).

It has been developed in consultation with community leaders and commercial organisations, and reflects currently accepted practice for river rafting. Although primarily intended as guidelines for those working with dependant groups, whether commercial or not-for-profit, peer groups (for example friends or community club members) may also find some of the information useful for the planning and safe conduct of their activities.

Having suitable risk management strategies in place and ensuring the AAS are met should help minimise the likelihood of injury or loss. However, it is recommended that all providers obtain independent legal advice to ensure they understand their duty of care obligations under the law in Tasmania. In addition, providers, whether commercial or not-for-profit, should discuss their specific operations and requirements with their insurance broker or underwriter to ensure they have appropriate insurance cover.

Adventure activity standards for a range of activities, along with additional advice on access, communication, developing an operation manual, risk management and emergency planning, can be accessed on the Sport and Recreation Tasmania website at www.development.tas.gov.au/sportrec/

Note: Commercial operators wishing to conduct tourism-based operations in areas managed by the Parks and Wildlife Service (PWS), Crown Land Services, Forestry Tasmania or the Wellington Park Management Trust are required to have a Commercial Visitor Services (CVS) licence (see section 6.4 for full details).

All operators, whether commercial or not-for-profit, must adhere to the Department of Education Outdoor Education Guidelines when working with Tasmanian state schools and colleges. For a copy of these guidelines, please visit the Department of Education’s website at www.education.tas.gov.au/outdoor

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Sincere thanks are extended to the following organisations and individuals who have invested time and expertise in the development of this AAS for river rafting:

Rod Staples –Independent Operator

Marcus Morse – TAFE Tasmania

Graham Mitchell – Rafting Tasmania

Martin Fieldhouse and Sasha Lawrence – Parks and Wildlife Service

Thanks are also extended to the Outdoor Recreation Centre – Victoria, for the use of its adventure activity standards for some content and formatting.

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ADVENTURE ACTIVITY STANDARDS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER .............................................................................................................................. 2

PREFACE .......................................................................................................................................................... 3

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ................................................................................................................................. 4

TABLE OF CONTENTS .................................................................................................................................... 5

ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION ................................................................................................................................. 7

1 PLANNING ............................................................................................................................................... 8

1.1 Activity Plan for River Rafting ........................................................................................................... 8 1.1.1 General Considerations ............................................................................................................... 8 1.1.2 Selecting the Leader .................................................................................................................... 8 1.1.3 Selecting the Venue ..................................................................................................................... 9 1.1.4 Weather Information .................................................................................................................. 10

1.2 Pre-Trip Documentation ................................................................................................................. 10 1.3 Documented Site-Specific Hazards ............................................................................................... 11 1.4 Risk Assessment and Management ............................................................................................... 11 1.5 Emergency Planning ...................................................................................................................... 11 1.6 Restrictions to Participation ............................................................................................................ 12

2 RESPONSIBILITIES OF TRIP LEADER/GUIDE ................................................................................... 13

2.1 Competencies ................................................................................................................................ 13 2.1.1 Training and Accreditation ......................................................................................................... 13 2.1.2 Tasmanian Qualification Recommendations ............................................................................. 13 2.1.3 Assisting Guides/Assisting Leaders ........................................................................................... 13

2.2 First-Aid .......................................................................................................................................... 14 2.3 Specific Responsibilities of the Trip Leader ................................................................................... 14

2.3.1 Program Manager/Organiser ..................................................................................................... 14 2.3.2 Activity Leader ........................................................................................................................... 14

2.4 Assistant to the Trip Leader ........................................................................................................... 15 2.5 Communication and Authority ........................................................................................................ 15

2.5.1 Communications on the River .................................................................................................... 15 2.5.2 Briefing ....................................................................................................................................... 15

2.6 Ratios of Trip leader and Guides to Participants ........................................................................... 17 2.7 Group Size ..................................................................................................................................... 18 2.8 Alcohol and Smoking ...................................................................................................................... 18

2.8.1 Alcohol and drugs ...................................................................................................................... 18 2.8.2 Smoking ..................................................................................................................................... 18

2.9 UV (Sun) Protection ....................................................................................................................... 18

3 EQUIPMENT ........................................................................................................................................... 19

3.1 Equipment Used by the Group ....................................................................................................... 19 3.2 Equipment Used by the Participants .............................................................................................. 19 3.3 Equipment Used by the Trip Leader/Guide .................................................................................... 20 3.4 Equipment Condition, Maintenance and Storage .......................................................................... 20 3.5 Communication and Navigation Equipment ................................................................................... 20

4 MINIMAL IMPACT GUIDELINES ........................................................................................................... 22

5 DEFINITIONS OF TERMS USED........................................................................................................... 24

5.1 Terms ............................................................................................................................................. 24 5.2 Summary of Abbreviations ............................................................................................................. 25

6 FURTHER INFORMATION .................................................................................................................... 26

6.1 Rafting Contacts ............................................................................................................................. 26 6.2 Tasmanian Government Contacts ................................................................................................. 26 6.3 Other Relevant Bodies ................................................................................................................... 27

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6.4 Commercial Visitors Service (CVS) ............................................................................................... 28

7 APPENDICES ......................................................................................................................................... 29

7.1 Appendix 1: National Outdoor Recreation Training Package Units ............................................... 29 7.2 Appendix 2: Risk Assessment and Management Units ................................................................. 30 7.3 Appendix 3: Tourism and Hospitality Packages ............................................................................. 30

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ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION

The term ‘rafting’ refers to the use of inflatable multi-chambered boats (rafts) on white-water rivers where the river section is longer than one kilometre and/or the river grade at any point is greater than international grade one.

This AAS is intended for use when planning any organised river rafting trip involving dependant participants, whether commercial or recreational. It does not include the use of inflatable mattresses, home-made rafts, inner tubes or small plastic inflatable boats (‘duckies’).

Note: There are specific requirements for commercial operators wishing to undertake trips on the Franklin River. For further information please refer to section 6.4 and visit the Parks and Wildlife website at www.parks.tas.gov.au/recreation/boating/frankl.html

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1 PLANNING

An activity plan is developed by the leader/organiser/trail boss and outlines important information on how the program is to be conducted. Although land managers may not require all of the information it contains, an activity plan should be available if requested.

An Ancillary Certificate to Drive a Public Passenger Vehicle may be required if transporting clients. For more information, please visit www.transport.tas.gov.au/home

1.1 Activity Plan for River Rafting

1.1.1 General Considerations

River selection is the most important consideration when developing an activity plan. Organisations and leaders should select river sections that meet the objectives of the trip. To do this, the following should be considered:

leader/guide to participant ratio (see section 2.6)

objectives of the trip (desired outcomes)

group size

type and size of rafts

group skill/experience level, including fitness and swimming ability (see section 1.6)

river characteristics (length, grade, technical difficulty and surrounding environment)

access and remoteness of river section and the need to camp overnight

age of group

suitability of weather conditions for desired objectives

support capabilities (vehicle support)

suitability and availability of maps.

1.1.2 Selecting the Leader

When selecting the leader and guide/s for a rafting trip it is essential to consider if:

the trip leader and guide have the required competency to conduct the trip, effectively manage incidents and satisfy the planned objectives

the trip leader is familiar with the specific river section being visited

the trip leader and the participants have the ability and skills to paddle the grade of river

there are any gender supervision issues.

The Department of Education and the Camping Association of Tasmania have requirements regarding gender supervision for overnight camping with people under 18 years of age.

Please access the following services for further information:

the Education Department at www.education.tas.gov.au/outdoor/related/supervisions

the Camping Association of Tasmania on (03) 6230 8200 or (03) 6259 6158.

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Leaders working with school or college groups on programs involving overnight camping or in remote areas should be aware they will be required to undertake a good character check.

For further information, please refer to the Tasmanian Department of Education website at www.education.tas.gov.au/dept/employment/applying_for_a_job/employment_pre-requisites/goodcharacter

1.1.3 Selecting the Venue

Leaders should familiarise themselves with the regulations or licensing requirements that cover any public land that they intend to use, including campsite locations and access and egress points.

See the supplementary folder – Access, for contact details for Hydro Tasmania, PWS (world heritage areas) and Forestry Tasmania.

The choice of venues and locations will depend upon the type of equipment available, the weather and water conditions, access to the river and emergency egress, the age, level of experience and fitness of the paddlers and the qualifications of the leader (see section 2.1 for the qualifications required for basic and white-water guides).

Basic Rivers

These are rafting rivers in non-wilderness areas where outside assistance may be more readily obtained, which are relatively clear of hazardous trees and are safe to paddle at a variety of different water levels. However, they must be checked for updated access details and river levels before commencing a trip.

Derwent – Meadowbank Dam to New Norfolk

Huon – Blackfish Creek to Huonville at 0.6metres – two metres on the gauge at bridge at Judbury

South Esk – Hadspen to Trevallyn

South Esk – Evandale to Perth

Forth – Paloona Dam to Forth village, with a mandatory portage of the Forth Weir

Macquarie – Woolmers to Longford (not for guided groups)

Meander – Meander to Deloraine

White-water Rivers

Some of these rivers are in wilderness areas and appropriate equipment should be carried. Not all of these rivers have water level gauges. Judgement should be exercised in flood conditions.

Picton – Farmhouse Creek to Tahune

Huon – Tahune to Blackfish Creek

South Esk – Longford to Hadspen (care needs to be taken with trees below the weir)

Ringarooma – Derby to Moorina (beware of trees)

Meander – Birralee to Westwood

Mersey – Rowallan to Parangana

Mersey – Rodger’s Bridge to Kimberley (one portage)

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Mersey – Kimberley to Latrobe

Leven – Gunn’s Plains to Fogg’s Bridge

Hellyer – Hellyer Gorge to Blackwell Road Bridge

Arthur – Farquhar’s Bridge to Arthur River Bridge

Styx

North Esk

Note: Certain restrictions apply to rafting on the Franklin River. Please see section 6.4 below and visit the Parks and Wildlife website at: www.parks.tas.gov.au/recreation/boating/frankl.html for further details.

1.1.4 Weather Information

Planning should include up-to-date weather and fire information, and current river levels.

Weather Information from the Bureau of Meteorology is generally available through the media (newspapers, radio and television). Access the following services to obtain updated information:

The Bureau of Meteorology at www.bom.gov.au/weather/tas/

Tasmanian State, Cities and Districts Forecast Service 1900 955 364

Tasmanian Coastal, Land Weather and Flood Warnings 1300 659 216

1.2 Pre-Trip Documentation

Documentation is often seen as a chore and not a minimum requirement. There are however, certain details which a leader and/or organisation should be aware of to maximise safety. The following is generally agreed to be the basic documentation for a rafting trip:

an emergency plan (including details set out in section 1.5)

the names, addresses and emergency contact details for all participants

documented details of participants swimming ability, medical conditions*, and how they should be dealt with.

All documentation should be readily accessible to the leader and to a non-participating contact in the event of an incident/emergency. All individual participants’ requirements must be appropriately accounted for throughout the trip.

Participants should read and sign a disclosure of the activity risks and release from liability prior to the activity. This must be supported by a verbal briefing. Participants under the age of 18 should have the signature of a parent/guardian (see Waivers – section 5.1).

*Medical information relates to any condition likely to affect the participant’s performance. For example,

asthma, diabetes, epilepsy, fainting/dizziness, specific allergic reactions, blood conditions that may affect bleeding/blood clotting, conditions affecting balance, recent or long-standing injuries (for example, back, knee and ankle), disability or other relevant medical conditions that the supervisor should be aware of (for example, pregnancy, repetitive strain injury [RSI] and any relevant medication).

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1.3 Documented Site-Specific Hazards

River features and conditions change so frequently that even the most recent survey may be well out of date and further documentation of site-specific hazards is not an AAS requirement.

However, this AAS does recommend that trip leaders conduct, and document, a comprehensive site-specific risk assessment immediately prior to any trip, noting hazards and changes to expected conditions and how these should be dealt with. This information should be made readily available within the organisation and reported to the land manager where relevant.

1.4 Risk Assessment and Management

Risk management is defined by Standards Australia as ‘…a process consisting of well-defined steps which, taken in sequence, support better decision-making by contributing a greater insight into risks and their impacts.’ [AS/NZ Standard AS/NZS 4360:2004, Risk Management (2004)]

A systematic assessment of all foreseeable risks should be made and strategies should be considered as to how to manage, avoid or minimise these risks.

The process should identify all site-specific hazards and others such as river levels, equipment break down, injury and vehicle problems.

Some organisations, such as clubs and commercial operators, may have established risk management guidelines that cover issues such as standards for equipment and transport and should be referred to. It may also be a requirement that this is formally documented (see the supplementary folder – Developing an Operations Manual).

Rafting should only operate between the hours of sunrise and sunset, except in an emergency situation.

For further information, including planning proformas, see the supplementary folder – Risk Management and/or section 7.2: appendix 2 for details of relevant NORTP units.

1.5 Emergency Planning

Even with appropriate policies and procedures, accidents and emergencies can still occur. They are usually sudden and unexpected, significantly affect groups and individuals and require an immediate and planned response to contain the situation.

Prior emergency planning helps an organisation to manage an emergency more successfully. It also minimises long-term effects to individuals and organisations and enhances the ability to resume normal functioning. Developing clear emergency procedures and networks prior to an event is an important aspect of this planning.

The emergency plan is designed to help manage foreseeable incidents that have been identified in the risk assessment and any other emergencies that may occur.

Trip leader/s and a non-participating contact should be aware of the emergency plan.

Whist an organisation may have a general emergency plan, there should be a specific emergency strategy for each activity/session, which should detail the:

emergency access and escape routes where possible

emergency contact details for key organisations (for example land manager and the police) and how they are best contacted (via mobile phone, satellite phone or radio)

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activity program, including planned start and finish times of the session

emergency ‘trigger-time’ for the non-participating contact to inform emergency services that the group has failed to return/check-in from a trip

specific communication equipment being carried by the group (for example, phone and radio)

adopted strategies specific to the areas being visited. The trip leader should communicate with the relevant non-participating contact at designated time/s. Upon failure to do so, the non-participating contact should activate the plan (for example, notify the police or any other party, as detailed in the plan).

In the event of serious or fatal incidents, the police are responsible for the management of the incident and all other parties (contact persons) are under the direction of the police. Only the police may notify parents and next-of-kin of any fatalities.

For further information, see the supplementary folder – Emergency Strategies and/or section 7. 2 for details of relevant NORTP units.

1.6 Restrictions to Participation

Operational restrictions to a rafting trip include the weather, equipment, river grade, restrictions dictated by land manager and environmental factors (flood, drought and fire).

Individual restrictions should apply to participants deemed to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs, including prescription drugs that may affect performance, as well as to participants who are unable or unwilling to follow instructions.

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2 RESPONSIBILITIES OF TRIP LEADER/GUIDE

This section includes all aspects of the activity plan that involve both the trip leader and the assistant leader/guide. It also covers the specific competencies required for various difficulty levels and details about basic organisational requirements.

2.1 Competencies

2.1.1 Training and Accreditation

Several options are available through community organisations, employers, TAFE colleges, universities and other registered training organisations (RTOs) for training rafting guides and instructors. For this reason, any rafting guide or trip leader must be confident he or she has skills and experience at least equivalent to those described in the relevant units from the National Outdoor Recreation Training Package (NORTP).

A statement of attainment for these units is not compulsory. However, the inclusion of this section is intended to provide a suitable benchmark describing the skills that a leader should have, as described within the NORTP (see section 7.1, appendix 1 for details of specific selected units).

Where relevant, consideration should also be given to the skills necessary for tourism guiding (see the Drysdale Institute’s Tourism Training Package – Guiding THT02), particularly where an interpretive program is offered, with catering (see section 7, appendix 3 for further details).

2.1.2 Tasmanian Qualification Recommendations

In Tasmania, trip leaders and/or guides should have either an award of the Australian Board of Canoe Education Award Scheme or equivalent, including one of the following:

a Basic River Guide

a White-water Rafting Guide (Proficiency).

If a group is led from a kayak, then the kayaker must also be one of the following:

qualified as a Level-Two or Three Instructor (White-Water)

qualified with an AQF Outdoor Recreation Certificate lV

confident of having satisfied a process of skill acquisition, at least equivalent to that described by the relevant NORPTP units (see section 7, appendix 1).

Note: Leaders/guides working with Tasmanian state school or college groups must be registered teachers or have a registered teacher present during the activity. A police check may also be required of all staff working with such groups.

2.1.3 Assisting Guides/Assisting Leaders

Assisting guides/assisting leaders should have the relevant rafting experience and group management skills (equivalent to the AQF Outdoor Recreation Certificate lll, with specialisations in rafting), necessary to provide assistance to the leader of the program and should be able to manage any incident, should the leader become injured or incapacitated.

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2.2 First-Aid

It is recommended that every trip leader and assistant leader/guide on a river-rafting trip should hold an approved level-two first-aid certificate, which is now measured by the NORTP unit SRXFAD001A from the Sport and Recreation Package or HLTFA1A from the Health and Fitness Package.

It is also recommended that at least one adult should hold a current remote area first-aid certificate on any river rafting trip which is, at any point, more than two hours from emergency medical attention (see section 7.2 for details of relevant NORTP units).

Peer groups may also have to manage incidents likely to require first-aid. If there is no-one in the group with a current recognised first-aid qualification, it is advisable that participants consider other measures to manage any injury or illness.

On any river rafting trip, the last boat (sweep) should carry a comprehensive first-aid kit. (for example the Leaders Wilderness First-Aid Kit or the Remote Area First Aid Kit). For further information please see the Safety Network (Australia) website at www.safetynetwork.com.au/

On any trip with more than 20 people (participants and guides), a second first-aid kit should be carried. The first-aid kits should be carried in separate crafts.

2.3 Specific Responsibilities of the Trip Leader

2.3.1 Program Manager/Organiser

The role of the manager/organiser is to develop the overall context of the activity or tour. In particular he or she might be involved in the planning of a specific activity, including the choice of venue, the time of program, staffing, emergency management and communication protocols (including designation of the emergency contact).

2.3.2 Activity Leader

Most competency qualifications include reference to the generic responsibilities of activity leaders and assistants towards their clients. Individual tasks may be delegated but the responsibility remains with the activity leader.

Whenever commencing any rafting activity, it is the activity leader’s responsibility to ensure that the level of knowledge, ability, skills and equipment of each participant is appropriate for the level of difficulty and complexity of the activity. The activity leader must also obtain agreement from all participants that he or she, as the leader, has the role of leading the group. Individual tasks may be delegated but the responsibility remains with the trip leader.

Key areas of responsibility for the activity leader include:

completing the trip plan

researching and planning for likely hazards, incidents or emergencies

ensuring that the minimal environmental impact message (including human waste removal and disposal) is conveyed and adhered to

confirming that the group experience/capabilities match the trip to be undertaken

ensuring a full briefing is carried out and understood by all guides and participants (see section 2.5)

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checking river levels and weather reports prior to the trip and every day during a multi-day trip

ensuring that all group equipment is secured correctly at all times

confirming head counts before, during, and immediately after the trip

maintaining awareness of the physical and psychological condition of the group

controlling the pace of the group and resting the group if necessary

maintaining surveillance/observation of participants to ensure, as far as is possible, that all participants avoid situations beyond their known capabilities

appropriately designating responsibility to guides

appointing external contacts to notify emergency services if not contacted by the designated time

notifying external contacts of the safe completion of the trip

checking all equipment prior to the departure of the trip and upon return

ensuring that any incidents are documented and reported

checking the first-aid kit and communication equipment prior to trip

collecting signed waiver forms from all participants where relevant (see sections 1.4 and 5.1).

2.4 Assistant to the Trip Leader

Any person acting as an assistant leader/assistant instructor/assistant guide/trainee guide instructor should be able to provide support and assistance to the activity leader according to the activity plan and manage any incident or emergency according to the emergency strategy should the leader become injured or incapacitated.

2.5 Communication and Authority

2.5.1 Communications on the River

For all outdoor activities involving group participation, all participants, instructors and activity leaders should use agreed and understood communication (briefing, calls, authority, directions and so on). It is essential that this system is devised before the activity and agreed on as a component of the pre-activity briefing.

2.5.2 Briefing

The briefing of participants before an activity by the leader/instructor will obviously vary in content depending on the activity and venue, but in general should provide a comprehensive introduction to the program, activities and personnel. More specifically it might include:

an introduction to the trip leader, guides and objectives

basic river information including river location, river hydraulics, shoreline features and other hazards

an overview of the strategies for environmental conservation, including care for flora and fauna, and rubbish and human waste removal/disposal

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an explanation of the nature of the activity, inherent risks, emergency strategy, individual and group conduct and responsibilities, and communication requirements

details of essential equipment and clothing, including:

- Personal Floatation Device (PFD)

an overview of the features of the PFD

a demonstration of the proper fitting of a PFD

a check that each participant’s PFD is correctly fitted

a reminder that participants must wear a fastened PFD at all times.

- helmets:

an overview of the features of the helmet

a demonstration on how to properly fit the helmet

a check that each participant has a helmet that is correctly fitted

a reminder that participants must wear a fastened helmet at all times.

- raft:

a demonstration of how to enter/exit the raft

a demonstration of how to move within the raft and correct foot positions

a demonstration of how to maintain correct sitting position within the raft

a demonstration of the handholds within the raft.

- paddle:

a demonstration of the correct paddle grip

a demonstration of the correct paddle use

a demonstration of the strokes used.

state commands for:

- forward, backward, stop

- turn left, turn right, draw

- high-side

- hold on

- lay low.

technical:

- an explanation of the buddy system

- an overview of the overboard drill

- a demonstration of how to assist a swimmer

- an explanation of the aggressive/defensive swimming position

- an explanation of the hazards on the riverbed

- a demonstration of the throw bag

- an explanation of strainers and sieves

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- an explanation of a pinned raft and flipped raft, and what to do in each circumstance.

participant:

- confirmation that participants have understood the briefing and accept the risk

- confirmation that participants are not under the influence of alcohol or drugs

- a check of the participants’ clothing, footwear, hair and jewellery, ensuring that they are safe and appropriate for the planned activity

Consideration should be given to the capacity of non-English speakers to understand briefings and whether written briefing sheets in other languages are required.

2.6 Ratios of Trip leader and Guides to Participants

When determining the appropriate leader to group ratio, a leader may be influenced by a number of variables. These include the river (grade, complexity, environmental sensitivity, access), the group (experience, competence, fitness and availability of equipment) and the experience of the leader/guide. There are situations where the leader’s judgement will dictate the requirement for smaller numbers of participants per leader/guide. Land managers may also suggest ratios that differ from the AAS and if these are within the AAS (a smaller number), they should be regarded as minimum standards.

In addition to the above, the following factors should be considered:

There should generally be two craft at all times on every trip on all rivers (depending on the river grade and water levels). This may be one raft and one safety kayak, provided the safety kayaker is an appropriately qualified person (see section 2.1).

Every trip should have a designated trip leader.

There should be a minimum of one trip leader and one assistant guide/leader on every trip.

A raft may only be ‘self-guided’ on grade 1, 2 and 3 rapids. If a raft is self-guided, the trip leader must make sure the self-guiding participants are competent in skills to the level considered reasonable for the river section. Self-guiding has recognised beneficial outcomes but, by its nature, a trip involving a self-guided raft requires at least the same supervision level as that of a guided raft. The trip leader is responsible for the decision to self-guide a river section

Minimum ratios of trip leaders and guides to participants are:

Number of participants Number of Trip Leaders Minimum number of guides

to assist Trip Leader

1 –15

16 – 22

23 - 30

1

1

1

1

2

3

Note: A minimum of one leader and one assistant leader/guide is generally required on any rafting trip

The number of paddlers in guided rafts will depend on the carrying capacity of the raft as follows:

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- ‘12 foot’ rafts should have a maximum of six paddlers for day trips, or four paddlers plus equipment for overnight trips, and a guide or adult leader capable of steering in each raft

- ‘14 foot’ rafts should have a maximum of eight paddlers and a guide or adult leader capable of steering in each raft

- ‘16 foot’ rafts should have a maximum of 10 paddlers and a guide or adult leader capable of steering in each raft.

2.7 Group Size

For the safety of both the group and the river environment, the maximum group size for a rafting trip should be around 30 participants or nine rafts, with a minimum of two rafts on any one trip. However, the maximum size of the group and the number of rafts will depend on the river experience of both the instructors and the paddlers, the conditions on the day and the nature and grade of the river.

Large groups should be split where possible and each resulting group should independently adhere to this AAS.

2.8 Alcohol and Smoking

2.8.1 Alcohol and drugs

The consumption of alcohol by leaders and other assisting leaders/guides when on duty could result in a charge of negligence or jeopardise their rights under the Workers Rehabilitation and Compensation Amendment Act 2004 if an accident or mishap should occur.

2.8.2 Smoking

Smoking should not be permitted while actively involved in any rafting activities or in proximity to rafting equipment. Appropriate butt storage should be provided, with all butts being removed from the areas and disposed of correctly by the smoker or leader.

In Tasmania, it is illegal for people under the age of 18 years to smoke.

2.9 UV (Sun) Protection

Leaders/instructors must ensure that they take reasonable steps to prevent or minimise the likelihood of staff and participants sustaining health damage due to exposure to ultraviolet radiation. This may include encouraging the wearing of suitable clothing, using sunscreen or taking breaks in the shade.

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3 EQUIPMENT

Equipment requirements vary with the objectives of the trip plan and the environmental conditions likely to be endured. When planning equipment requirements for a rafting trip it is important to plan ahead as much as possible for all eventualities, taking into account the appropriate river information and forecast weather conditions.

3.1 Equipment Used by the Group

The following is the minimum requirement for any rafting trip involving dependent groups.

The rafts should be selected based on their suitability to the river conditions and any conditions it is reasonable to assume may occur during the rafting trip.

The rafts must be in serviceable condition and must be constructed in accordance with International Standards ISO 6185 – 1982, Shipbuilding and marine structures and Inflatable boats – Boats made of reinforced elastomers or plastomers or Australian Standard AS 2677 – 1983, Inflatable boats.

Rafts must also include or carry:

- a bailer system

- spare paddles

- an inflation pump (one per five rafts to be kept in the last or ‘sweep’ boat)

- a bow line and stern line

- a throw bag or rescue line

- a repair kit

- spare clothing and emergency equipment must be carried in waterproof containers attached to the raft.

Off road support vehicles should comply with the Four Wheel Driving AAS and the Cruisin' without Bruisin' - Code of Practice for Recreational Vehicle Users, available from the PWS website at: www.parks.tas.gov.au/index.aspx?base=1352

3.2 Equipment Used by the Participants

All dependent rafting participants must have:

appropriate clothing for the duration and objectives of the trip

a PFD meeting the Australian Standard Specification for Type 2 (AS1499) - for further Information please visit the MAST website at: www.mast.tas.gov.au/domino/mast/newweb.nsf/v-html/fsRecBoating

a helmet designed for river rafting or kayaking

a paddle made out of a material that will not shatter or crack leaving sharp edges - all paddles should have a specifically designed ‘T’ grip

suitable footwear

any personal medication required should be carried in a waterproof container and the trip leader and guide/s should understand any requirements for its administration.

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3.3 Equipment Used by the Trip Leader/Guide

In addition to the equipment listed in section 3.2, the trip leader must have easy access to the following:

a whistle

the basic equipment required to facilitate a Z-Drag rescue

a flip line or tape

prussic loops and 3 Karabiners

an appropriate length of rope for rescue on the river section selected

an appropriate knife or cutting device

the appropriate first-aid kit and emergency communication equipment.

Trip leaders and guides should be quickly and easily identifiable. For example, they may choose to wear helmets that distinguish them from participants.

Electronic and other equipment that can be damaged by water is best carried in water-resistant containers.

3.4 Equipment Condition, Maintenance and Storage

All equipment used in rafting activities should be used, maintained and stored according to manufacturers’ recommendations.

All equipment used should be checked before and after each trip by the instructors/guides.

All issued equipment should be carefully washed after each trip and wet suits should be disinfected after each use.

A log of equipment use and maintenance should be kept current.

3.5 Communication and Navigation Equipment

The following communication equipment should be carried, as considered appropriate, by the trip leader:

a marine (pea-less) whistle

a mobile and/or satellite phone

a signalling mirror, torch, strobe light

an UHF radio

Service Tasmania operates an Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) hiring service for all outdoor recreation activities. Units can be hired from Service Tasmania shops in Hobart, Launceston, Burnie and Devonport. Service Tasmania can be contacted on 1300 135 513. For further information, please see the supplementary folder – Communications and the PWS website at www.parks.tas.gov.au/recreation/epirbs/epirbs.html

Note: From 1 February 2009, the satellite system, Cospas-Sarsat, will no longer process signals from EPIRBS using 121.5 Megahertz (MHz). From that date, only 406 MHz beacons will be monitored. Those with the analogue 121.5 MHz beacons are being encouraged to make the switch to the digital 406 MHz beacons. For further

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information, please visit the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) at http://beacons.amsa.gov.au/

With the advent of cheaper, hand-held Global Positioning Systems (GPS), leaders/guides have access to a powerful navigational tool. However, as they are battery-operated and still liable to failure, their use should always be backed up by a conventional compass.

In 2003, Tasmania began changing the coordinate system used for all maps from AGD 66 to GDA 94. All new and revised maps will be issued in the new format. If the GPS being used does not use GDA94, the satellite-derived coordinates based on the World Geodetic System 1984 (WGS84) should be used, as this is virtually equivalent.

To convert map readings from AGD 66 to GDA 94, add 112 metres to the easting and 183 metres to the northing coordinate.

For further details on use of GPS, please visit the University of Tasmania website at www.utas.edu.au/spatial/locations/index.html

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4 MINIMAL IMPACT GUIDELINES

Environmental factors to consider include the following:

Always utilise recognised access (put in), egress (take out) and rest locations. If this is not possible, access and egress should only occur at locations with a robust bank or beach where the landing and launching of rafts will have minimal impact.

Tying crafts to trees or other vegetation should always be avoided. If this is not possible, extreme care should be taken to eliminate the damage from rope movement.

Contact with the riverbank should always be minimised and care should be taken when setting up rescue points to minimise riverbank erosion.

By law, all plants, animals, historical and archaeological sites and geographic features are protected. Disturbing any of these is illegal and must be avoided.

Do not disturb riverbank vegetation, this will encourage erosion and promote the spread of pest plant species.

Fire restrictions apply in all National Parks and in many other areas. Wherever possible, adhere to the stove-only ethic and follow the land manager’s requirements for lighting fires.

No fire may be lit on a day of total fire ban. Total fire bans may be implemented regionally so be sure to check for updates daily and be aware of fire regions that cover the route.

Where fires are permitted:

- they should only be lit in a properly constructed fireplace or pit (minimum 30 centimetres deep and a maximum one metre wide)

- they should be at least three metres around the fireplace or the pit must be clear of flammable vegetation

- they should not be left unattended

- they must be completely extinguished with water before leaving the campsite and pits must be backfilled

- you should use fuel stoves as an alternative, whenever possible.

Wash all soil from personal and camping equipment, vehicles and river gear before leaving home or moving between locations to avoid transporting seeds or soil-borne pathogens, such as Phytophthora.

All campsites should be located at least 20 metres from any waterway.

Faecal matter should be buried at least 100 metres from any waterway and should be carried out from any water supply catchment area.

Carry out all rubbish, including foodstuffs, as they may harm native wildlife.

Always use biodegradable soaps and detergents. Dispose of washing water at least 100 metres from any waterway.

In Tasmania, some streams and rivers, even in the wilderness areas, are now polluted or infected with Giardia. If contamination is suspected, the water should be treated by boiling it or with water purification filters, pumps or tablets. For more

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information visit the Tasmanian Department of Health and Human Services website at www.dhhs.tas.gov.au/service_information/information/giardiasis_giardia

For further details on minimal impact, please visit the following websites:

Australian Alps National Parks www.australianalps.environment.gov.au/caring/river-users.html

The Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife Service www.parks.tas.gov.au/recreation/boating/frankl.html

Leave No Trace http://www.lnt.org/

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5 DEFINITIONS OF TERMS USED

5.1 Terms

Activity Provider – The provider of the activity. This may refer to an organisation (commercial or non commercial) and/or a trip leader.

Dependant Group – In the AAS, a ‘dependant group’, whether commercial or non-commercial, is defined as one where the participants in the activity are dependent on the skills, knowledge and experience of the designated leader for the safe conduct of the activity.

Emergency Medical Attention – Medical attention given by a medically qualified person such as a paramedic or a doctor. This may be getting medical attention to the injured participant/s or by getting the injured participant/s to medical attention.

Guide – A person who assumes responsibility for a group of participants on a river rafting activity and offers experience in the activity (rather than offering instruction), helping to achieve the objectives of the activity.

Organisation – A person or group of persons organised for a particular purpose and assuming the role of providing an activity of either a commercial (for profit) or non-commercial (not-for-profit/community group) basis.

Participant – A person whose welfare is the responsibility of a guide or trip leader or instructor. (NOLRS ‘Client’)

Peer Group – While there may be a nominal leader for organisational or administrative purposes, a ‘peer group’ such as a group of friends or a group of activity club members, is not dependent on any one person for leading the activity but has, between the members of the group, the necessary skills, knowledge and experience for their planned program and a shared responsibility for the safe conduct of the activity.

Program Manager/Organiser – The leader/manager that has overall responsibility to the organisation for the program.

Remote – Remote trips are defined in the AAS as any trip, which is at any point more than two hours from emergency medical attention.

Self guided –A raft controlled by a participant and not the trip leader or guide.

Trip leader – A senior guide who assumes the responsibility of the guide and co-ordinates the entire group, including the guides, to satisfy the objectives of the trip.

Urban – Urban trips are defined in the AAS as any trip, which is at no point any more than two hours from emergency medical attention.

Waivers or Releases – A waiver is used to document the fact that participation is voluntary, that the risks involved are acknowledged and assumed and that the intent is to release the organisation from responsibility for any injury that may occur for the privilege of being allowed to participate. It is called a ‘waiver’ because it requires the participant to agree to waive his or her rights to sue, should an injury occur while participating. It is also called a ‘release’ because the basic agreement is to release the organisation from liability for any injury experienced while participating. Providers are advised to seek legal advice on the wording of any waiver or release.

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5.2 Summary of Abbreviations

AAS – Adventure Activity Standard/s

ANTA– the responsibilities and functions of the Australian National Training Authority (ANTA) have now been transferred to the Department of Education, Science and Training (DEST), 2005

AQF – Australian Qualifications Authority

CVS – Commercial Visitors Service Licensing System

NOLRS – National Outdoor Leaders Registration Scheme

NORTP - National Outdoor Recreation Training Package

NTIS – National Training Information Service

ORC – Outdoor Recreation Centre Inc. Victoria

SRTA – Sport and Recreation Training Australia

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6 FURTHER INFORMATION

6.1 Rafting Contacts

Australian Canoeing PO Box 666 Glebe NSW 2037 Telephone: (02) 9552 4500 Facsimile: (02) 9552 4457 Website: www.canoe.org.au/

Canoe Tasmania Inc. P.O. Box 230 Scottsdale TAS 7260 Telephone: (03) 6424 5928 Facsimile: (03) 6424 9826 Website: www.tas.canoe.org.au/

6.2 Tasmanian Government Contacts

Bureau of Meteorology Website: www.bom.gov.au/weather/tas/

Forestry Tasmania Website: www.forestrytas.com.au/

Hydro Tasmania Website: www.hydro.com.au

Police Search and Rescue Website: www.police.tas.gov.au/policing_services/marine_and_rescue_services

Note: All emergencies are via 000

State Emergency Service 83 Melville Street Hobart TAS 7000 Telephone: (03) 6230 2700 Website: www.ses.tas.gov.au/role_of_ses/ Note: All emergencies are via 000

Sport and Recreation Tasmania Website: www.development.tas.gov.au/sportrec/

Tasmanian Department of Education Website: www.education.tas.gov.au/

Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife Service Website: www.parks.tas.gov.au

Tourism Tasmania Website: www.tourismtasmania.com.au/

Workplace Standards Tasmania Website: www.wst.tas.gov.au

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6.3 Other Relevant Bodies

Australian Quality Training Framework Website: www.aqf.edu.au/

National Outdoor Leadership Registration Scheme Outdoor Council of Australia Sports House Corner Castlemaine and Caxton Streets Milton QLD 4064 Telephone (07) 3369 9455 Website: www.outdoorcouncil.asn.au/9.html

Parasol EMT Canberra Head Office Unit 1/9 Lithgow Street Fyshwick ACT 2609 Telephone: (02) 6280 9880 or 1300 366 818 Facsimile: (02) 6280 9881 or 1800 000 666 E-mail: admin@parasolemt.com.au Website: www.parasolemt.com.au/

Red Cross Tasmania 40, Melville Street Hobart TAS 7000 GPO Box 211 Hobart TAS 7001 Telephone: (03) 6235 6077 E-mail: vpage@tas.redcross.org.au Website: www.redcross.org.au/tas_default.htm

St John Ambulance Australia 57 Sunderland Street PO Box 414 Moonah TAS 7009 Telephone: (03) 6271 0333 Facsimile: (03) 6273 7776 E-mail: tasmania@stjohn.org.au Website: www.stjohn.org.au/

Tasmanian Aboriginal Land Council 4 Lefroy Street Hobart TAS 7000 Telephone: (03) 6231 0288 E-mail: m.young@TALC.net.au

Tasmanian Volunteer Emergency Communication Association (Tas VEC) 34 Victor Place Montrose TAS 7010 Telephone: (03) 6272 4437 Facsimile: (03) 6273 7532

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Wilderness Medicine Institute - NOLS Unit 1/5 Hines Road Oconnor WA 6163 Telephone: (08) 9331 6066 or 1800 137 847 Facsimile: (08) 9331 6044 E-mail: info@wmi.net.au Website: www.wmi.net.au

6.4 Commercial Visitors Service (CVS)

Commercial operators wishing to conduct tourism-based operations in areas managed by one or more of the following authorities are required to have a Commercial Visitor Services (CVS) licence:

PWS

Crown Land Services

Forestry Tasmania or

Wellington Park Management Trust.

The CVS system is managed by the Parks and Wildlife Service (PWS). Further information can be obtained by contacting the CVS section on (03) 6233 3636 or at www.parks.tas.gov.au/permit/index.html

There are specific CVS requirements for commercial operators wishing to raft the Franklin River in addition to those above. For further information please visit www.parks.tas.gov.au/recreation/boating/frankl.html

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7 APPENDICES

The inclusion of this section is intended to provide a suitable benchmark, outlining the skills that a leader should have as described within the National Outdoor Recreation Training Package (NORTP).

Details of these units can be accessed free-of-charge by logging on to the National Training Information Service website at www.ntis.gov.au. The units are components of national training courses that encompass the specification of knowledge areas and skills relevant to the outdoor recreation industry and the application of that knowledge and skill to a standard of performance required in the workplace.

7.1 Appendix 1: National Outdoor Recreation Training Package Units

River Rafting

GENERIC UNIT CODE

These units relate to generic competency expected of any individual in a position of leadership or management in the outdoors.

Leadership and Management Skills

Respond to emergency situations

Provide first-aid

Facilitate a group

Deal with conflict

Undertake risk analysis of activities

Apply sport & recreation law

Follow defined Occupational Health and Safety policy and procedures

Outdoor Recreation Skills (Urban)

Operate communication systems and equipment

Navigate in difficult or trackless areas

Plan outdoor recreation activities

Guide outdoor recreation sessions

Plan for minimal environmental impact

Apply weather information

Use and maintain a temporary or overnight site

Demonstrate bushwalking skills in difficult or trackless areas

SRXEMR001A

SRXFAD001A

SRXGRO001A

SRXGRO002A

SRXRIK001AS

RXINU002A

SRXOHS001B

PUAOPE002A

SRONAV002B

SROODR002A

SROODR005A

SROOPS002B

SROOPS003B

SROOPS006B

SROBWG002A

RIVER RAFTING - GUIDES UNIT CODE

Grade 1&2

Any individual who takes the responsibility to be the guide on grade one or two rapids must have the above generic competency and the following rafting competency or equivalent.

Grade 3

Any individual who takes the

Apply rafting skills on moving water

Apply self rescue skills in white-water

Apply rafting skills on grade 3 rapids

SRORAF001B

SROWWR001B

SRORAF002B

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responsibility to be the guide on grade three rapids must have the above generic competency and the following rafting competency or equivalent.

Grade 4

Any individual who takes the responsibility to be the guide on grade four rapids must have the above generic competency, the above rafting competency and the following rafting competency or equivalent.

Guide clients on rafts

Perform white-water rescues and recoveries

Apply rafting skills on grade 4 rapids

Guide clients on raft trips

Coordinate, manage and guide white-water rafting trips

Perform a comprehensive range of white-water rescues and recoveries

SRORAF004A

SROWWR002B

SRORAF003B

SRORAF004A

SRORAF005A

SROWWR003B

7.2 Appendix 2: Risk Assessment and Management Units

First Aid

Basic - SRXFAD001A Provide first-aid, from the Sport and Recreation Package, or HLTFA1A Provide basic first-aid, from the Health and Fitness Package

More advanced/remote area - SRXFAD 002A Provide advanced first-aid response, SRXFAD 005A Manage casualty in a remote and/or isolated area

Managing a Critical Incident

SRXEMR001A Respond to emergency situations

SRXEMR002A Coordinate emergency response

Managing Risk

SRXRIK002A Manage an organisation's risk

SRXRIK003A Develop an organisational risk management policy

Risk Assessment

BSBMGT609A Manage risk

SRXRIK001A Undertake risk analysis of activities

7.3 Appendix 3: Tourism and Hospitality Packages

Tourism Training Package - Guiding (THT02)

THTFT 004B Provide campsite catering

Hospitality Training Package (THH02)

THHGHS 01B/01 Follow workplace hygiene procedures

THHGHS 01B/02 Follow workplace hygiene procedures

CONTACT DETAILS

Sport and Recreation Tasmania

Department of Economic Development, Tourism and the Arts

22 Elizabeth Street

HOBART TASMANIA 7000

GPO Box 646

HOBART TASMANIA 7001

Ph +61 3 6233 5926

Fax +61 3 6233 5800

Email: sportrec@development.tas.gov.au

www.development.tas.gov.au