Overview
Description: Archery is an ancient skill, used for hunting and warfare. Nowadays it is mainly conducted as a sport which in the UK is governed by GNAS (Grand National Archery Society also known as Archery UK). Archery takes place both indoors and outdoors and can include target, clout and field archery – on and off site.
Risk Benefit Statement: This activity builds concentration skills and fine motor control. It encourages awareness of safety and observation of risk. It strengthens organisation skill and the need for relaxation and self-control.
Technical Advisor: Minimum qualification is GNAS Archery Leader – Alex Phillips
Leadership: An archery session must be run by a person holding the GNAS Archery Leader qualification, or a person trained in house by BHA to the standards of GNAS Archery Leader. This will generally be a BHA Staff Member, but occasionally approved volunteers with the appropriate level of qualification and experience will be left in charge of a group (if this person does not hold a current First Aid Certificate, there must be someone in the immediate proximity that does for the duration of the session.)
Ratio Description: 1:16 with up to 8 on the shooting line. The waiting group to be supervised by the additional staff member (the visiting teacher or group leader could fulfil this role).
Min Qualification: BHA Archery Competency
Training Type: BHA training by GNAS Archery Leader
Risk Assessment
| HAZARD | RISK | CONTROL MEASURE |
|---|---|---|
| Equipment | All archery equipment shall be maintained to the standards outlined by GNAS. A full inspection shall be made at least once a season. In addition to this, a visual inspection must be done each time equipment is used. Any damage will be immediately reported to the Centre Manager or Archery Leader, and if a piece of equipment is unsafe to use it shall be marked DO NOT USE until repaired | |
| General | Various injuries | Suitably qualified & experienced instructor (includes First Aid) Clear briefings & supervision All accidents, near misses and incidents are recorded and appropriate action undertaken as required. Safety reviewed in staff meetings. |
| On-site Range | Scratches, stings, trips, eye injuries | Regular maintenance of grounds, removal of thorny bushes, nettles and trimming of eye level obstructions. Instructor to warn group about uneven ground conditions and to be observant of potential trip hazards. Range to be set up according to GNAS guidelines. Signs to be posted when range in use |
| Off-site Range | Scratches, stings, trips, eye injuries | Off-site range to be inspected for suitability prior to agreeing to offer activity. Centre to liaise with off-site location about preparation of range area if necessary. Instructor to warn group about uneven ground conditions and to be observant of potential trip hazards. Range to be set up according to GNAS guidelines. Signs to be posted when range in use |
| Extreme Weather | Sunburn Hypothermia Hyperthermia | Instructor is to check weather forecast prior to session & observe conditions throughout. If necessary stop activity and move to safety (often minibus or accommodation). Change plans as necessary. Ensure participants have suitable & adequate clothing plus access to warm (or cold) drinks. Remind visiting staff & young people about sun protection. Group shelter available |
| Participants | Various | Participants asked to share relevant previous & existing medical issues. Visiting group leaders asked any other (e.g. behavioural) issues. Staff ratios (group size) amended as required. Long hair is gathered up and tucked away. Appropriate clothing worn. Loose clothing secured. Jewellery, neckwear to be removed. Body piercings to be removed or taped up. Closed-toe footwear to be worn |
| Members of the public | Various | Venue choice Qualified & experienced instructor |
| Shooting | Piercing from arrows Arrows left in grass Muscle strain | Participants to be measured and correct length arrows to be used Participants briefed on shooting signals and shooting area layout Participants to walk and not run in range area No arrows to be left on shooting line Arrows removed from targets using correct procedure All arrows to be returned after each end. Correct bow size and poundage to be used Maximum of 8 shooters on the shooting line |