Matlock Angling Club Risk Assessment

The club regularly assesses the waters where we have fishing rights and will carry out work to minimise the risks while members are fishing.

The very nature of the sport of angling carries with it some degree of risk, taking place as it does beside water and in the countryside the club will endeavour to minimise these risks but members who fish our waters should also minimise the risks to themselves and others by following guidelines from the club and angling bodies such as the Angling Trust.

Below is a set of guidelines set out by Matlock Angling Club Ltd and although not exhaustive form part of our clubs Health and Safety and risk assessment policy.

Please note that currently we have night fishing on the River Derwent which is strictly by separate permit and risk assessment which is issued with these permits.

Hazards and Risk

*Natural hazards such as unsafe trees , bank erosion , weirs etc.

*Danger to persons caused by livestock and claims for liability where                                    livestock have been allowed to stray due to negligence of member of angling club tenant.

*Unsafe banks ,stiles, gates,fences,barbed wire,fishing platforms

*Regular checks are made to ensure hazards and risks have not been exacerbated due to vandalism .

*Danger from overhead power lines and the risk of injury or death caused by lightning particularly when using carbon rods and poles.

*Risk of contracting Weil’s Disease or other waterborne infections

*Physical assault by anti-angling fraternity

*Injury to others arising from the use of poles back casting when fly fishing etc.

It is impossible to list here all possible hazards and the risks involved and not all those detailed are appropriate or necessary in some circumstances but the club will make efforts to take due care and attention on these matters to be of benefit to members and others.

Most fishing points (pegs) are numbered on our waters and members are asked to fish from these points , some of these, on the river especially are more difficult than others. Members are asked to be aware of their own ability to fish in these points and take necessary precautions to avoid injury or accidents.

Below are guidelines for fishing all of our club waters.

*Fishing to be from pegs or platforms provided

*Anyone wading should wear suitable lifejacket or buoyancy aid

*Members choosing to fish at difficult points(pegs) should be aware of their own ability and have means of self-rescue and buoyancy aids if they get into difficulty

*Before fishing informs another person where they are fishing and at what time they are expected to finish or return.

*Carry a mobile phone when fishing to get assistance if required.

* Be aware of any overhead power lines whilst fishing or walking with equipment

All Risk Management information and records are available from the club secretary on request. Persons buying day tickets or using a guest ticket for fishing the club waters should make themselves aware of the club rules and risk management and health and safety rules before commencement of fishing.

These guidelines and club rules are available on the club website www.matlockanglingclub.co.uk