Grand Canyon National Park - Research Paper Example

?Risk Study Report: Hike at Bright Angel Trail- Grand Canyon National Park Risk Study Report: Hike at Bright Angel Trail- Grand Canyon National Park Introduction Risk assessment is one of the most strategic tools employed to understand the potential loss or harm that a certain activity that is completed in an uncertain environment would impact an organization. Such assessment helps in understanding the potential harm that may befall an activity, the probability of the harm occurring and its magnitude (Vasquez, Regens, and Gunter, 2006:947). As any organizations, risk assessment is very essential for touring companies as they are mainly the ones who ensure the safety of the touring clients in an adverse and challenging environment. Research by Dickson, Gray and Mann (2008) for the Outdoor Council of Australia shows that as the benefits of outdoor adventure activities are increasingly acknowledged and researched, more and more people are not only increasingly attracted to take part in outdoor adventure activities, but are also increasingly becoming risk averse. Bright Angel trail is one of the key star hiking attractions in the Grand Canyon National park. Understanding the risk that would be involved in hiking in this area is important for a tour company if it is to weigh on the costs and benefits of guiding a given set of clients. This paper presents a risk study report on hiking at Bright Angel Trail in the Grand Canyon National Park given a number of clients. Risk Context Statement Given the increasing acknowledgement of the benefits for outdoor activities which has caused a rise in quest for adventure activities, there is a probability that most adventure seekers would tend to be risk averse and wholly rely on tour guides for an exciting yet safe trip. This risk report covers a tour group of 20 individuals of diverse age and gender, who are to take part in hiking at Bright Angel Train. All the individuals in the group are fluent in English, making it easy to communicate. However, some of the clients have some health issues that need to be considered: one with chronic asthma, one with severe peanut allergy, one who is pregnant, and two senior citizens over the age of 75 with health problems. Activity and location: the hike will be a seven mile hike downhill through part of the Bright Angel Trail where the clients will get in touch with nature as they descend through a dense mixed conifer forest on the North Rim, the stunning and ominous Red Wall Limestone, the exquisite Roaring spring cascading stream from a hill, the semi arid area inside the Grand Canyon (Sonoran desert) to the Cottonwood campground. Legal requirements associated with hiking in the Grand Canyon National Park: it is important that the hikers obtain permits from the Backcountry office prior to undertaking the activity, more specifically for the Cottonwood campgrounds (Grand Canyon National Park Service, 2012). The earlier such permit is obtained, the better. Furthermore, hikers under the age of 18 need to be accompanied by Guardians, either parents or teachers. Macro, Micro and Risk Management Context: in understanding the risks the tour group will be faced with, risks with regard to the whole group such as risks with regard to the weather or trail conditions are evaluated. In addition risks with regard to individual members of the tour group are also significant for instance allergic reactions or health problems. In managing such risks, a broad approach encompassing group approach will be used for macro risks impacting the entire group, where as a specific approach in managing a micro risk will be used. Risks Associated with Hiking at Bright Angel Trail – Grand Canyon National Park The risks associated with hiking at Grand Canyon National Park can be identified and analysed based on the hiking activity, the Grand Canyon location, the people who are to undertake the activity, the equipment used for the activity, as well as the physical environment where the activity is undertaken. The risks associated with hiking activity include: slipping, tripping, and falling, where given that loose, wet or expose steep ground or eve rough terrain may be the cause slips and falls, the probability that such falls and slips would result to serious injuries such as cuts, sprains or strains make this a risk factor to be taken into account. Another core risk in hiking is over exertion or resulting low blood pressure due to limited blood supply in the brain. These are mainly as a result of the long walk that has to be covered in a day, which is a precipice for slips and fall. From risk register in appendix 1 which analyses these risks it can be noted that can be noted while the likelihood of slipping, tripping and falling can occur at sometime, the consequences of such risk are minor as the potential effects are over a short to medium term with the small harm to the company’s reputation as well as smaller financial implications tot e organisation. On the other hand, while the risk over exertion will probably occur in most circumstances as the activity in strenuous in nature (Russell, 2005), the consequence is limited and almost insignificant. The level of risk for both these risks is medium. The risks associated with location where the hiking is to take place; the Grand Canyon, includes: communication hitches due to lack of network and extreme weather conditions. Within the Grand Canyon, there are often no communication networks and tour guides have to use satellite phones to communicate (The Wildland Trekking Company, 2012). This lack of network has the probability of cutting communication with others in case of loss of satellite phone or faulty phone. From the risk register in Appendix 1, it can be noted the likelihood of this risk occurring is minimal and occurs only in exceptional circumstances. Often, the tour guide covers all areas of communication before commencing hiking. However, the consequence of lacking a means of communication when communication is most needed is major and has a high potential serious effects and fatal consequences. On the other hand, extreme weather conditions may result to sunburns in the case of summer hikes and or hyperthermia or hypothermia depending on the level of temperature. While this risk is likely to occur in most circumstances given that the Grand Canyon has a unique pattern of weather conditions (Grand Canyon, 2011; National Park Service, 2011), the consequences are insignificant both to the activity, the company’s operations or reputation. Risks associated with the people taking part in the activity include: slipping tripping and falling, over exertion/ low blood pressure, health complications such as asthma attack, allergic reactions etc. From the tour group, there is a pregnant woman who faces the risk of having low blood pressure due to the activity, or if they slip and fall, it may be risky for the pregnancy. Overexertion of the older people may also result to health problems during the hiking (Russell, 2005). Weather conditions whether cold, or heavy duct may potentially initiate an asthma attack from the individual with chronic asthma, where as accidental peanut inclusion in food may result to strong allergic reactions from the allergic individual. While the health complications such as low blood pressure, chronic asthma, severe allergy, or other health problems are most likely to occur in most circumstances where individuals already have such health conditions, especially with regard to hiking in the Grand Canyon, the consequences are potentially serious with moderate impact to the company’s reputation as well as interruption of the activity and hospitalisation of the individuals. Risks associated with equipment used for activity include communication hitches due faulty or lost communication devices or injury due to hiking equipment misuse. While the risk of communication hitches due to lost or faulty equipment is less likely to occur, the consequence of lacking a means of communication when communication is most needed is major and has a high potential serious effects and fatal consequences. Other hand, the likelihood of hiking equipment misuse by the tour group is most likely to occur, even though the consequence to both the people in the tour group and the company can be moderate with potential for injuries or impact being moderately higher. Lastly, the core risk associated with the physical environment where the activity is undertaken include narrow trails and a potential encounter with mule riders which may potentially result to serious injuries when on steep hills with narrow paths (National Park Service, 2011). This is especially so when the hikers step off the trail towards the edge rather than on the uphill side. While the likelihood of a potential encounter with mule riders are unlikely to occur, the consequences of such risk can be tragic, resulting to injuries and harm to both the people and the animals. Such risk level is however medium. Suitability of activity for all group members Analyzing the suitability of hiking in the Grand Canyons for various group members, it can be noted that while other individuals in the tour group fit well with the activity, there are others who may not. The four people aged 16-18 and four people aged 35-40, both male and female are suitable are highly suitable to undertake this activity. This is because this group is more capable of handling strenuous task and has stronger immunity system as well as strong body balance necessary for this activity (Russell, 2005). Though the 18 weeks pregnant woman has the potential to do the hike, the risks associated with pregnancy symptoms at this stage such as dizziness, higher appetite, backaches, feet swelling, potential low blood pressure, and the urge to urinate frequently due to pressure on the bladder, would make the hike more uncomfortable for the woman than enjoyable. While he three children aged between 6 and 10 years of age would be able to take part in the activity, they would not be suitable in such an activity as younger children tend to tire quickly in strenuous activities such as hiking (Russell, 2005)and may even potentially cause tantrums. The other child with chronic asthma is highly unsuitable especially if the asthma is both dust and exercise induced. This is because the hiking is both strenuous and the probability of dust presence in the hike is high. The two older people age over 75 years of age with health problems would also be highly unsuitable for the activity. This is because hiking the Grand Canyon is not only demanding and strenuous, but the older individuals have a higher risk of encountering health complications along the way which may require air lifting for further treatment. The suitability of the 4 people age 60-70 years of age highly depends on their physical health and capacity to do walk long distances. Indeed research by Yu-Pei et al (2011) showed that engaging in physical activities such as hiking by an elderly population helps in enhancing longevity in life. Risk controls The risk controls as well as management level policies and procedures used to manage the risks below currently include: Slipping, tripping or falling: Well maintained and graded Bright Angel hiking trail as well as route planning by the company removes the likelihood of risk source being present. The tour management policy also requires that clients have suitable footwear for hiking as well as making it mandatory for first aid expert to be with a group. Furthermore, it is policy to inform clients of dangers and how to avoid such. Other additional controls included choosing appropriates routes to follow as well as sticking to the path. Mule encounters: a collision between hikers and mule riders can be prevented through route planning as well as careful instructions by the tour guides on what the clients need to do. Management policy requires that in such a case, people should step off the trail away from the edge on the uphill side to let the mules pass. Other additional controls that can be followed includes Group control with tour guides located at danger points and Wait till the last of the mule is 50 feet past the client’s position as well as a high ratio of tour guide to clients. Allergies to stings or food: Carry medications for allergies and for bug stings, remove allergic food components, and use bug repellant lotions. Furthermore, it would be important to inform the tour guide immediately of any possible stings. Over exertion: Evaluate the capability of the group in hiking to determine interval of breaks between hike and the pace (slower pace). Route planning also helps in determining how far to work and log to rest. Furthermore, management policy always requires a first aid expert on sight. Extreme weather (sunburn, hyper and hypothermia): Ensuring clients take appropriate clothing such as hat for sunlight, or warm clothing for cold weather, water and food. The Bright Angel trail has been stocked with drinking water spots and rest houses. Other addition controls to be added can include sunscreen lotions. Communication hitches: Carry spare satellite phone. There are emergency phones throughout the Grand Angel Trail, as well as Ranger presence. Furthermore, it is essential to ensure communication equipment is in good condition before hiking. Injuries due to hiking equipment misuse: Provide a safety talk and demonstration on how such equipments are used and the clients can avoid such minor accidents Asthma attack or other health complications: Ensure the client has warm clothing, and are carrying their asthma inhalers. Carry warm water in flasks. Ensure flight access and availability in the case of fatal emergency cases  References Dickson, TJ, Gray, D and Mann, K 2008, ‘Australian Outdoor Adventure Activity Benefits Catalogue,’ Centre for Tourism Research, University of Canberra. Research for Outdoor Council of Australia. Viewed 31 July 2012 at: Grand Canyon 2011, ‘Bright Angel Trail,’ viewed 31 July 2012 at: < http://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/upload/Bright_Angel_Trail.pdf> Grand Canyon National Park Service 2012, ‘Critical Backcountry Updates: Including Trail Closures and Restrictions,’ viewed 31 July 2012 at: National Park Service 2011, ‘Day Hike- Bright Trail Grand Canyon National Park,’ viewed 31 July 2012 at: Russell, TT 2005, 'Weighing the Risks in Physical Activity', JOPERD: The Journal of Physical Education, Recreation & Dance, March, Academic Search Premier, EBSCOhost, viewed 31 July 2012. The Wildland Trekking Company 2012, ‘Trip Itinerary and Details: Rim to Rim Hike,’ viewed 31 July 2012 at: < http://www.wildlandtrekking.com/hikingtourdetails/rimtorimdetails.html> Vasquez, AP, Regens, JL, Gunter, JT 2006, ‘Applying Mental Models to Qualitative Risk Assessment at the Tar Creek Superfund Site,’ Human & Ecological Risk Assessment, 12, 5, pp.947-963 Yu-Pei, L, Ying-Hsiang, H, Feng-Hwa, L, Jin-Shang, W, Chih-Jen, C, & Yi-Ching, Y 2011, 'Non-leisure time physical activity is an independent predictor of longevity for a Taiwanese elderly population: an eight-year follow-up study', BMC Public Health, 11, Suppl 4, pp. 428-436, Academic Search Premier, EBSCOhost, viewed 1 August 2012. Appendix 1: Risk Assessment for Hiking activity Hike at Bright Angel Trail- Grand Canyon National Park Risk Register Risk -& How it occurs including source Consequences Current Controls and Effectiveness (Brief Description) Risk Analysis Risk Priority (rank) Additional Controls Required Residual Risk Likelihood Consequence level of risk Likelihood Consequence Level of Risk Injury through slipping, tripping and falling  Can result to serious injuries such as cuts, strains, sprains, and in serious cases broken bones.  The Bright Angel Trail used for Hiking is well maintained and graded, with the hiking trails constructed with visitor’s safety in mind. Furthermore, clients kitted with suitable footwear, and having a first aider present. Announcement and client awareness of the danger, and how to avoid it  3 B  medium  4  Appropriate route choice. Avoid loose ground. Stick to footpath  2 A  low -Can occur on loose, wet or exposed steep grounds. The core sources are loose rocks, wet surface, loose soil or rough terrain. Encounter with mule rides/hikers  Can result to serious injuries due to fall from the edge, such as cuts, strains, sprains, and in other cases broken bones  Follow the directions of the tour guide. Stepping off the trail away from the edge on the uphill side. Route planning  2 D   medium  5  Group control with tour guides located at danger points. Wait till the last of the mule is 50 feet past the client’s position. higher ratio of tour guide to clients, 1 tour guide to 5 clients  1 D  medium Can occur on steep uphill areas with narrow paths. Can result to collision between hikers and mule riders Allergies to peanut or stings.  This risk results to allergic reactions which may impede the hiking, and may be fatal to the clients.  Carry medications both for allergies in insect stings as well those of clients with food allergies. Have the medical conditions for all clients. Ensure allergic food components are not in the food taken by the allergic individuals.  4 A   medium  2  Make clients aware of possible stings, and the need to report such stings immediately  3 A   low May occur due to some of the clients being allergic to small insect bites and stings such as bee stings. One of the clients is also allergic to peanut allergy, hence the food with peanut components may be fatal Communication hitches / equipment misuse  Lack of communication in cases of emergencies may result to fatalities. It may also result to the group being stranded at location where they are to be driven. Injury due to equipment misuse  Carry spare satellite phone. There are emergency phones throughout the Grand Angel Trail, as well as Ranger presence. Safety talk.  1 D   medium  7  Ensure communication equipment are in good condition before hiking  1 D Medium  May occur due to network problems or due to a faulty satellite phone Over exertion / low blood pressure  This risk may result slips and falls which may result to strains and sprains.  The awareness of touring group’s abilities in hiking. Slowing the pace and taking more breaks in between the hike. Furthermore, a first aider is always present. Route planning.  4 A  Medium  3 Lower ratio of tour guide to clients, for instance 1 tour guide to 5 clients – this is to cater to both stronger and weaker clients effectively  3 A  Low  This may be due to long trails covered between rests, uphill rocky terrain. Low blood pressure may also be due to a pregnancy. Extreme weather  May result into Sunburn, hyperthermia or hypothermia  Ensuring clients take appropriate clothing such as hat for sunlight, or warm clothing for cold weather, water and food. The Bright Angel trail has been stocked with drinking water spots and rest houses. 2  A   Low  6  Carry some sunlight screens 2  A  Low  Due to extreme weather conditions such as high temperature, or cold weather Asthma attack / health complications  Result to severe chest pains to client if not resolved Ensure the client has warm clothing, and are carrying their asthma inhalers.    4 C   High  1 Carry warm water in flasks. Ensure flight access and availability in the case of fatal emergency cases  3  B   Medium Due to extreme cold weather condition to asthmatic person, or dust weather condition Read More