A risk is a possibility that harm might occur when exposed to a hazard. Carrying out a risk assessment for each risk posed by a hazard can help you evaluate the level of risk a hazard poses and inform what appropriate actions you should reasonably take. Assess risks by considering what could happen (consequence) if someone or something is exposed to a hazard and the likelihood of it happening before plotting them in a risk score matrix to determine the level of risk (See example in Table 1).
On patrol, a risk matrix table is not prepared; however, for each risk identified by your patrol team you will need to consider the likelihood of occurrence and the consequences. Where both the likelihood and consequence are both high, your patrol team will need to decide what can be done to reduce or eliminate the level of risk.
Example risk matrix
The patrol team will need to establish a safe patrol area (and flagged area) for beachgoers of varying swimming abilities before the beach is opened. Each patrol member needs to take into account potential risks, which may include:
- areas known to be popular for boardriders
- areas that may be inappropriate for swimmers
- easy access to beach, e.g., car parks adjacent to dangerous surf zones, caravan park access
- identified hazards, e.g., rock formations, rip currents or potholes
- special considerations known to apply to your particular patrolling location
- the surf lifesaving club’s condition
- the likely number of beachgoers
- the surf conditions
- the beach condition and suitability, e.g., clear of broken glass.