< Policies & procedures

Standard Operating Procedure

Joining a Canyoning Activity as a Participant

1. Purpose

This document outlines the standard procedure and expectations for Canyoning Australia members participating in club-organised canyoning activities. Adherence to these guidelines helps ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants.

2. Prerequisites for Participation

Before joining a canyoning activity, members must meet the following requirements:

  • Membership Duration: Be a current financial member of Canyoning Australia.

  • Training (New Canyoners): Members new to technical canyoning must complete the Canyoning Australia beginner abseiling practice session.

  • Training (Experienced Canyoners): Experienced canyoners joining Canyoning Australia activities should discuss their canyoning history and recent experience with the Activity Leader.

3. Acknowledgement of Risk

Canyoning involves inherent risks. Participants must formally acknowledge these risks:

  • Canyoning Waiver: Annually, when joining or renewing membership, members participating in canyoning must indicate they have read, understood, and accepted the Liability Waiver.

  • Understanding Risks: Be aware that technical canyoning is physically and mentally demanding and involves potential hazards such as rugged terrain, cold water, heights, and rappelling (abseiling). 

Refer to the Risk Guidance and Canyoning Activity Risk Assessment documents for more information on risks associated with canyoning activities.

4. Booking a Canyoning Activity

  • Find Activity Details: Locate canyoning activity details and leader contact information in the Events area on the Canyoning Australia website.

  • Contact the Leader: Contact the activity leader to express interest.

  • Provide Information: Inform the leader of:

    • Any medical conditions, physical limitations, or communication challenges that might affect your participation.

    • Any relevant skills you possess (e.g., navigation, first aid, specific canyon knowledge).

  • Commitment: Commitment to booked activities is crucial for planning.

  • Acceptance: Activity acceptance is at the leader's discretion based on group needs, the canyon's grade, and the participant's assessed skills and experience, not on a "first come, first served" basis.

5. Pre-Activity Preparation & Responsibilities

  • Self-Assessment: Honestly assess your fitness and skills against the activity's grade and description. Discuss any concerns with the leader.

  • Equipment:

    • Ensure you have all necessary personal canyoning equipment as specified by the leader and club guidelines (typically includes helmet, harness, descender, locking carabiners, safety sling/tape, whistle, suitable backpack, dry bag, appropriate footwear, wetsuit/thermals as needed). Refer to the Gear guidance for detailed information on personal equipment required for canyoning.

    • All equipment is manufactured by a commercial manufacturer and compliant with industry standards (e.g. EN, UIAA, CE, IRATA, AN/NZS)

    • Check that your equipment is in good working order and meets safety standards. Leaders may refuse participation if equipment is unsuitable or damaged.

    • Carry a personal first aid kit, including an emergency contact & medical information form and any essential personal medication (e.g., EpiPen).

    • Pack sufficient food and water for the duration of the activity.

6. During-Activity Responsibilities & Expectations

  • Personal Responsibility:

    • Take responsibility for your own welfare and safety.

    • Take reasonable care to avoid exposing yourself or others to unnecessary risk.

  • Teamwork:

    • Stay with the group; avoid becoming isolated, especially during swims or scrambles. Maintain visual contact with others.

    • Collaborate with fellow participants and be ready to assist with tasks (e.g., managing ropes, carrying gear).

    • Offer help or advice when appropriate or requested.

  • Follow Instructions:

    • Follow the leader's instructions regarding the route, procedures, and safety.

    • Cooperate fully with the leader and the group.

    • Do not proceed ahead of the leader unless specifically instructed to do so.

  • Communication:

    • Communicate clearly with the leader and group members.

    • Inform the leader immediately if you feel unwell, unsafe, uncomfortable, or are experiencing issues (e.g., fatigue, cold, injury, equipment problems).

    • Learn and use the agreed communication methods for the canyon environment (e.g. hand signals, whistle signals, vernbal calls). Understand standard whistle signals (1 blast=Stop/Attention, 2=Off Rope/OK, 3=Rope Down, 4=Rope Up, Continuous=Help).

  • Hazard Identification:

    • Be observant and identify potential hazards (e.g. incorrectly threaded descenders, loose rocks, worn anchors, rope hazards, water hazards like siphons, slippery surfaces).

    • Report any identified hazards or concerns to the leader and the group immediately.

  • Equipment Use:

    • Use your equipment correctly.

    • Report any damage or significant wear observed on ropes or other group gear immediately.

    • Carry ropes or group gear as directed by the leader.

7. Post-Activity

  • Assist with packing and cleaning group gear (e.g. ropes) as needed.

  • Report any incidents or near misses to the leader for inclusion in club records.

By following these procedures and meeting these expectations, participants contribute to a safer and more enjoyable canyoning experience for everyone involved.