Safety & Risk Management
Committed to Safety
Our investment into risk and safety management is extensive. Through our detailed planning and preparation and extensive experience in managing outdoor risk, we support our participants to navigate uncertainty and embrace the opportunities for self-discovery that accompany Outward Bound programs.
Proactive & Prepared
At Outward Bound Australia, safety isn’t separate from the adventure – our 70 years of experience tells us it’s what makes it possible. Through thoughtful planning, deep expertise in our field, and constant respect for the dynamic outdoor environments we travel through, we create space for challenge, growth, and discovery.
From pre-program medical assessments, to the annual roping training refreshers, and top-notch equipment, our comprehensive safety guidelines are tailored to meet the unique challenges of outdoor environments.
Weather Ready
Field Comms Sorted
Professional Approach
Continual Refinement
We Invest in Safety
Transparent and Open
“We recognise that risk in outdoor environments is dynamic and is shaped by many interacting factors. Our approach at OBA focuses on constantly anticipating and adapting to changing conditions, supporting our staff, participants and our risk management systems to respond thoughtfully when the unexpected occurs.”
What happens in an emergency?
Multi-layered Response Teams
- Field Group Leaders are extensively trained on group management, first aid and emergency response. And they can contact basecamp anywhere, at any time with their GPS devices.
- Program Coordinators are on call 24 hours to advise the field teams. Rest assured they are proactively monitoring the weather closely.
- A Senior Manager is on call 24/7 while a group is in the field. They have years of experience in the outdoors, train extensively in emergency response, and enact the OBA Critical Incident Plan if required.
- The Critical Incident Plan is a system developed over Outward Bound’s 70 year history. It supports and guides the team during an incident to respond effectively.
- Our Safety Risk Committee meets quarterly to review incidents, industry trends and remain up to date with relevant legislation.
National Centre for Outdoor Risk and Readiness
Working in the outdoors means we feel the effects of a changing climate firsthand. So we’re taking action to keep the outdoors sustainable and accessible for the future. That’s why we launched NatCORR- a nationwide collaborative effort uniting any organisation who uses the outdoors to build the knowledge, skills and resilience needed to tackle these emerging risks together.
OUTDOOR RISK INTELLIGENCE
ORI HEAT delivers a web-based tool featuring a 72-hour Heat Stress profile, tailored recommendations, and specific guidance for outdoor activities. Users can plan and adjust their programs to manage heat-related risks and make more informed decisions.
Get to know Our Crew
They’re the friendly faces, expert guides, and passionate adventurers who make it all happen.
Meet the team dedicated to creating unforgettable experiences, managing risk with care, and leading from the front—on trail, at base, and behind the scenes.
Our crew are trained in conducting dynamic risk assessments and skilled in leading groups through outdoor environments.
With a strong focus on judgement, adaptability, and safety, they bring confidence and calm to every program.
