Safety – Environmental and Public Considerations

Minimising Environmental Impact

  • Stay on existing trails—no off-track riding
  • Avoid sensitive areas (e.g. erosion-prone slopes, wildlife habitat)
  • Avoid wet-weather use of trails that rut easily

13.2.2 Respect for the Public

  • Riders must give way to walkers and horses
  • Use marshals at conflict points (e.g. trail junctions near public areas)
  • Keep participants informed about expected public use

Signage Ideas:

  • “Shared Trail – Slow Down”
  • “Give Way to Horses”
  • “Stay on Track – No Shortcuts”

Level-Specific Safety & Environmental Guidance

LevelCommon RisksEnvironmental FocusRecommended Actions
A – Active Orienteering SceneRiders at high speed, terrain already used for FootOAlready familiar with access limitsUse existing risk assessment templates; involve experienced safety officers
B – Some OrienteeringMixed user trails, less formal navigation habitsVarying awareness of outdoor etiquetteProvide full rider briefing, include map with hazards marked, use signage generously
C – No OrienteeringUnfamiliarity with rider behaviour and navigationRisk of damaging informal or private-use landKeep courses very easy; prioritise supervision, visibility, and route containment