"Knowing and willing participant"

It's important that clients are are informed about the day, so they can make an informed decision to participate. To do this, cover the following points:

• Communicate cliff environment - Explain what it means to be in a cliff environment, if possible give a rough example of cliff heights and what the client should expect to be exposed to.

• Communicate what abseil entails - Front load what abseiling is in broad terms. How would you describe abseiling to someone who has never experienced it before?

• Challenge by Choice - Make sure clients understand that during the day that have the choice to participate in the activity and, if they are not coping, the option to back out of abseils. Note: If multi-pitch abseiling this choice is made at the beginning of the day - the client must understand the choice.

• Front loading - Are there any other aspects of the day that need to be described? An exposed traverse? A difficult exit track? Make sure the client is aware the difficulties they will encounter during the activity.

Site Safety

• The Guide identifies the activity area including; safe areas, drop zones, access tracks and toilets

• The Guide articulates clothing requirements appropriate to the activity (according to Helmet and Harness fitting PRE-ACTIVITY SAFETY BRIEFING) and anticipated weather conditions; thermals, warm layers, rain jackets

• The Guide articulates Sun Safe and/or Stay Warm recommendations appropriate to the anticipated weather conditions and according to the SunSafe and Stay Warm Guidelines

• The Guide recommends an appropriate food and water consumption during the activity appropriate to the anticipated level of physical intensity and weather conditions

Cliff Safety

• The Guide explains safety at heights; 2 meters from edges unless clipped on, watch your step and be aware of moving ropes

• The Guide explains the "ROCK" call and what to do when it it heard.

• The Guide articulates the requirements for when helmets and harnesses are worn/used; helmets are worn whenever a fall or head impact risk is present, harnesses are worn during roping activities and where a fall protection system is in use

• The Guide articulates when the use of gloves during abseiling is appropriate (gloves may not be used on small or practice abseils)