ROAD

1. Environmental Factors

• Weather Conditions:

  • Risk: High temperatures or low temperatures, sudden storms, or strong winds (especially in coastal areas).
  • Mitigation: Riders should check the weather forecast before the ride. Ensure they are equipped with appropriate clothing (e.g., sunscreen, lightweight, breathable clothing) and hydration supplies. If the weather is unsafe, rides should be postponed or rerouted.

• Terrain:

  • Risk: Cycling destinations can be known for its mountainous terrain, steep climbs, and fast descents. This could lead to accidents if riders are not prepared.
  • Mitigation: Riders should be advised on how to handle both steep ascents and descents. Ensure that the group sticks together, especially on challenging terrain, and provide guides who are familiar with the local roads.

• Sun Exposure, temperature drops and Dehydration:

  • Risk: Prolonged exposure to the sun can cause heatstroke or dehydration, especially in the summer months. Sudden temperature drops more likely in the high mountains. 
  • Mitigation: Riders should carry plenty of water and take regular breaks in shaded areas. Apply sunscreen regularly, especially on long rides and  wear sunglasses to protect from the sun. For colder weather always carrying a rain jacket or similar to keep warm. 

2. Health & Physical Risks

• Cycling Injuries:

  • Risk: Falls, crashes, or collisions with other cyclists or obstacles on the road.
  • Mitigation: Riders must wear helmets at all times (compulsory) and it is recommended to wear gloves for added protection. Pre-ride safety briefings should be conducted, emphasizing safe cycling practices, such as how to ride in a group, communication for stopping and pointing out hazards on the road.

• Fatigue & Exhaustion:

  • Risk: Overexertion, especially on long or difficult climbs, can lead to fatigue or heat exhaustion.
  • Mitigation: Riders should pace themselves and take regular rest stops when needed. Ensure that the rider is made aware of the route i.e. distance and climbing. Be aware of symptoms of fatigue, and encourage the group to listen to their bodies.

• Medical Emergencies:

  • Risk: Health issues such as heart problems, dehydration, or accidents causing injury.
  • Mitigation: Ensure all participants have medical insurance and a guide should be equipped with a phone for emergency contact. Riders should notify the guide of any pre-existing medical conditions.

3. Equipment Risks

• Bike Mechanical Failure:

  • Risk: Flat tires, chain issues, or brake malfunctions during the ride.
  • Mitigation: Ensure all bikes are in good working condition before the ride, including checking brakes, tires, and gears. Riders should carry a basic repair kit with spare tubes, pump, and a multi-tool. Support rescue vehicle for major mechanical failure and team members should be equipped to assist with minor mechanical problems.

4. Road and Traffic Risks

• Traffic Risks:

  • Risk: Interaction with motor vehicles, especially on busy roads, which can lead to collisions.
  • Mitigation: Emphasize the importance of safe cycling practices, including wearing brighter clothing, using lights and reflectors when needed, and riding in a senesible manner. Ensure that cyclists are aware of traffic laws and regulations. Ride on quieter roads where possible and avoid riding during peak traffic  hours.

• Road Hazards:

  • Risk: Potholes, loose gravel, or other road hazards that may not be visible, especially when riding at high speeds.
  • Mitigation: Riders should be advised to always scan the road ahead and ride cautiously. A pre-ride briefing should highlight the key hazards on the route. Ensure that all cyclists are aware of hand signals for stopping or warning others about upcoming obstacles.

• Narrow or Poorly Marked Roads:

  • Risk: Cycling on narrow roads with limited shoulder space or unclear road markings could lead to collisions or accidents.
  • Mitigation: Plan routes better-maintained roads with wider shoulders. Riders should be instructed to ride single-file on narrow roads and always be aware of surrounding traffic.

5. Group Management

• Rider Experience:

  • Risk: Riders of varying skill levels in the same group could lead to accidents or frustration.
  • Mitigation: Assess riders level before the ride and sugguest to the appropriate group levels. Adjust the route or pace according to the group’s abilities. Assign a ride leader with good local knowledge to manage the group.

• Group Communication:

  • Risk: Miscommunication or lack of coordination among cyclists.
  • Mitigation: Use a communication system (such as WhatsApp group) to maintain contact with the group. Ensure that all participants know key information about the rides each day.

• Fatigue and Group Safety:

  • Risk: Members of the group getting separated due to fatigue or varying paces.
  • Mitigation: Ensure regular regrouping during the ride, especially on long climbs or during tough sections. Use a sweep rider at the back to keep track of slower participants and ensure no one gets left behind.

6. Emergency Preparedness

• Emergency Response:
  • Risk: Delays in response or assistance in case of an accident or emergency.
  • Mitigation: Establish an emergency plan in advance. Ensure all participants have access to emergency contact numbers, and familiarise everyone with the route and nearest hospitals. Ride leaders should carry a fully charged phone, and support vehicle rescue  should be available for emergencies.

Summary of Key Risk Mitigations:

1. Pre-ride Briefing: Address weather conditions, route hazards, and safety procedures.
2. Pacing & Group Management: Cater to riders levels, ensure regular rest stops, and maintain group communication.
3. Safety Gear: Mandatory helmet use. 
4. Bike Checks: Ensure bikes are in safe and rideable condition before the ride and recommend repair essentials with them
5. Emergency Preparedness: First aid kits, emergency contact info, and clear plans should be in place.
6. Road Safety: Ride on good road surface where possible with low traffic, be visible, and follow local traffic laws.