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RISK ASSESSMENT FOR SCHOOL/GROUP OUTING ORGANISERS

Here you will find details of our risk assessments. Our aim is, of course, to provide a safe and pleasant environment that we hope everybody will enjoy.
If on your visit you observe anything that you are concerned about, or feel there is more we could do to improve your time in the park, please tell a member of staff.

RIDE OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE

All our ride operators are over the age of 18, and fully trained in their operation.
All rides are annually inspected by LTC (Leisure Technical Consultants Ltd) who are a type "A" registered inspection body.  They issue us with amusement device inspection procedures scheme certificates (ADIPS).
In addition, every ride undergoes daily, weekly and monthly recorded safety checks as per the manufacturer's recommendations by our own competent maintenance team.

HEIGHT RESTRICTIONS FOR RIDES AND ATTRACTIONS

For your own safety, some rides have height restrictions, details of these are clearly displayed on the rides, and on our website.

EMERGENCY PLANNING

In the event of an emergency situation, the park has a contingency plan that comes into operation. Selected members of staff have specific responsibilities that will enable the situation to be controlled or the park evacuated in a safe and calm manner.

LOST CHILDREN

Both Parks have a well practised lost child policy that every member of staff understands. In the event of a lost child, please inform a member of staff who will then take the necessary action to resolve the situation as soon as possible.

DISABLED VISITORS

The Health and Safety of all our guests is of paramount importance. For this reason Vectis Ventures Ltd has undertaken separate risk assessments as to the suitability of our main rides for our disabled guests.  These are available by appointment with our Health and Safety Officer. This may mean some rides will be unsuitable for some disabled guests. We hope that you understand and accept the decisions made in the interest of your safety. The Health and Safety Executive currently advise that refusal on the grounds of health and safety does not constitute discrimination.
We try to ensure our disabled guests have as much fun as anybody else entering the park, obviously some areas of the park are difficult for wheelchair access, but as part of an ongoing process we are altering some existing pathways to make access easier for all guests.  A full Guide for Guests with Disabilities is available from both parks.

IT IS THE SCHOOLS/GROUPS RESPONSIBILITY TO SUPERVISE CHILDREN AT ALL TIMES

BLACKGANG CHINE - GENERAL RISKS

Blackgang Chine is spread over 30 acres and is based around several "themed" areas. The following risk assessment is a general park assessment, further detailed risk assessments covering certain individual attractions are available to view by appointment with our Health and Safety Officer if required.

TRIPS, SLIPS OR FALLS

We have several different path surfaces throughout the park, the main route is tarmac, but we also have paths made from brick paving and areas of grass and crushed limestone.
Due to the fact the park is built on a hill; there are a few paths that the elderly or infirm might find a problem to walk with maximum gradients of 1:6. All areas of the park are cleaned, swept and checked daily by our maintenance and ride staff.  Any problems encountered are repaired immediately or the area is sealed off and made safe.  It is recommended that sturdy outdoor shoes are worn on your visit.
Wet weather can make some paths or play equipment slippery. Attractions like our Snakes n' Ladders will shut until they are dry and safe to use.

ENTERING THE PARK

Our coach parking area is situated opposite the main entrance, this does mean that children will need to cross the road before entering the park, and will require adult supervision.  Disabled parking is provided in our main car park.

FIRE

The Main Entrance building, Pirate's Pantry cafe, Chocolate Heaven, The Wight Experience cinema, BBC Coast & The Ship Ashore Tea rooms all have fire alarm systems fitted. Fire extinguishers are installed where necessary and are serviced by outside contractors.
Regular electrical inspections are carried out on all wiring and equipment by outside contractors.
Fire exits in all attractions are clearly marked.

ACCIDENTS AND FIRST AID FACILITIES

The Company will always have staff on duty who are trained as 'Appointed Persons' for First Aid help.
We have a first aid room situated in the main entrance building, and further first aid boxes are situated in the Pirate's Pantry and La Cantina.
The nearest hospital is St Mary's in Newport approximately 10 miles away. Staff will call for the emergency services if deemed necessary, or will advise you how to get there if required.

EXPOSURE TO WATER

Blackgang Chine has a water garden feature consisting of 3 ponds and a further pond is located in the sawmill area. These ponds are predominantly fenced off but supervision of children is required in these areas.

CLIFF EDGE

The park is situated on a cliff top and secure fencing is used where required. This fencing is inspected daily.

PARK MAINTENANCE, LIVESTOCK AND FAUNA

Occasionally maintenance vehicles will need to be used in the park during opening hours, all drivers are competent and fully trained in their use.
Please note, some plants within the park can cause irritation and may be harmful to health if ingested.

For further details please write to:
Health & Safety Department
Blackgang Chine,
Ventnor,
Isle of Wight,
PO38 2HN