Activity Scotland Association Code of Practice

1. Providers will describe fairly and accurately the amenities, facilities and activities available.
2. Management will deal promptly and courteously with all enquiries, requests, reservations, correspondence and complaints.
3. If the location or the activities on offer are weather dependent, this will be made clear at the time of booking.
4. Providers will have public liability, product liability and employers liability insurance cover for at least £2 million.  Details and copies of current certificates will be available for inspection upon request.
5. Providers will conduct all activities in adherence to the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
6. Those who benefit from outdoor activities should contribute to the conservation and enhancement of the countryside.  Therefore all providers will have due regard for the principle of “sustainable use” of the environment.
7. Providers will have regard to the potential psychological as well as the physical effects upon participants in adventure activity programmes.  Providers will take appropriate measures to safeguard clients emotional as well as their physical welfare.
8. Members will have a current AALA license for all activities carried out within the scope of the Adventurous Activities Licensing Regulations.
9. Providers will maintain written risk assessments and local operating guidelines for each activity offered.  These procedures will define the qualifications or competencies required of staff assuming different levels of responsibility within the programme and will be readily available to any member of the public for inspection.
10. An accident and ‘near miss’ log book or appropriate recording system will be maintained.  These must specify any illness/injuries incurred and the measures taken to avoid recurrences.
11. Management will ensure that sufficient equipment is used in all activities and that it is safe, appropriate and fit for the purpose intended.  Where applicable, equipment must meet the appropriate UIAA, BSI or CEN approved safety standards.
12. Providers will comply with all relevant statutory legislation - local, national and international.
13. When an activity provider buys in services or facilities from another establishment or individual, all such sub-contracted providers will comply with this Code of Practice.