Coventry CTC – Dynamic Risk Assessment

This is part of a two stage approach to effectively managing and mitigating Risks on Coventry CTC rides and events. The first stage is to use the Ride and Events Planning Guidance to produce a workable Ride/Event Plan.  The second stage is to use Dynamic Risk Assessment techniques (this document) to effectively manage risks on the Ride / Event.   
 
 
WHAT IS DRA: Dynamic Risk Assessment (DRA) is a continuous, on-the-spot evaluation of changing hazards in a real world environment.  The DRA is an unwritten mental process that allows ride leaders to instantly react, alter routes, or change group behaviors to ensure safety on the road. 
 
 
Key techniques for effective dynamic risk assessment include:
 
1. The 3 A’s Framework
        • Assess: Constantly evaluate the environment (e.g., wet roads, heavy traffic, fading light), the task (e.g., a tricky descent, group speed), and the people (e.g., rider fatigue, varying abilities).
        • Analyze: Identify unexpected hazards such as deep potholes, tractors, or sudden roadworks. Determine whether the risk to the group is low enough to continue or if it requires a change in tactics.
        • Act: Implement immediate control measures to mitigate the risk.

2. Group Control Tactics
        • Modifying the Group: Split large groups into smaller, manageable formations on busy roads or narrow lanes.
        • Adjusting Formations: Signal riders to move from two abreast into single file, or instruct the group to slow down and regroup.
        • Avoid conflict: Ensure that where potential conflicts with other users (pedestians on shared path, horse riders, etc) arise that the group acts considerately 
        • Assigning Roles: Appoint a reliable “backmarker” (tail-end Charlie) to ensure nobody gets dropped or left behind.

3. Hazard Warnings and Callouts
        • Communication: Utilize standard cycling hand signals (e.g., pointing out potholes) and verbal warnings passed down the line (e.g., “Car up,” “Hole,” “Stopping”). 
        • Use of Hearing-Impaired techniques: If any member of the group is hearing-impaired then ensure that suitable signals are explained & demonstrated at the start of the ride, and then are used during the ride.

4. Route Adjustment (Plan B)
        • On-the-fly Changes: If a section of the route is blocked or becomes too dangerous (e.g., unexpected heavy traffic or flooding), be prepared to alter the route at short notice or turn back. 

5. Managing Conditions and Fatigue
        • Pacing: Moderate the overall pace based on the slowest rider to keep the group together.
        • Adverse Weather: If conditions deteriorate (e.g., high winds, ice, heavy rain), leaders should consider cutting the ride short, sticking to main roads, or in extreme cases, terminating the ride altogether.
5. Managing Accident / Incident
        • Accident: Use normal Accident  Management methods – Ensure everyone is safe, Control the scene to prevent further accidents, Idedntify the location, Call Emergency Services, Use First Aid techniques, Organise the group to control & protect, etc.,
        • Incident: Adverse Weather: Use Cycling UK Incident Management methods- Log actions, identify witnesses, take photos, etc.

 

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Last Updated by Alan Jelley on 3rd June 2026

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