RGS Explore skills: Expedition risk assessment and safety management

Whether you’re conducting an individual expedition or are part of a larger team, it’s essential to understand the risks associated with the project, know what you need to do to keep yourself and your team safe, and plan how you’ll respond in the case of an incident or emergency.

This one-day introductory course on risk assessment and safety management is designed specifically for those planning expeditions and field research in an overseas context, covering the key elements of an effective risk assessment and safety management plan and how to implement these plans in the field.

What you will learn:

• Risk assessments: what they are, how they’re developed, what to include, and how to mitigate risks.
• Group management approaches and the "human factors" in safety.
• How to develop and implement Incident Management and Emergency Response plans.

What you will take home:

• Risk Assessment templates
• Field Safety checklists
• Emergency Response Plan templates

This one-day course is aimed at independent individuals and small teams working overseas.

Professional expedition leaders, teachers, lecturers, and youth workers who are seeking to develop their knowledge and skills in safety management are advised to take a two-day Off-Site Safety Management course.

Meet your trainers

Matt Ilott is the director and lead facilitator of Different Perspective Training Ltd, delivering first aid, mental health and outdoor safety training to schools and universities. Matt is an RGS-accredited Off-Site Safety Management trainer.

Shane Winser is the Society’s Expeditions Advisor. She sits on BSI’s technical panel for BS 8848, the British Standard that specifies operational requirements for organisers of a wide variety of overseas ventures.

Making a booking

• Advance booking for this event is required. In order to book you will need an account on our website. If you already have an account you will be prompted to log in when you click 'book now'. Please create an account if you do not have one yet (you do not need to be a member of the Society to create an account).
• Due to the administration involved, we are unable to provide invoices for this event. Payment must be taken at the time of booking.
• We do not issue tickets (electronic or physical) for this event. Instead your name will be on a list at the door.

Accessibility at our events

We want everyone to feel welcome at our events. Key accessibility features of this event include:

• Step-free access to the event
• Accessible toilets
• Assistance dogs are welcome
• Hearing loop

For full details, please visit our accessibility page. If you have any questions or specific access requirements, feel free to get in touch with us on access@rgs.org