Risk Assessments

Hazards and control measures for the environment

Hazard	Risk	Suggested Control Measures
Slippery, uneven, or unstable terrain	Trips, slips, and falls on wet, muddy, or icy banks, paths, or fishing platforms, which could lead to injury or falling into the water.	Wear appropriate footwear with good grip. Pay attention to footing, especially in poor weather. Avoid banks that are undercut or look unstable.
Deep or fast-flowing water	Drowning or hypothermia if you fall in, or becoming stuck in silt or obstacles.	Do not wade unless it is safe and you have the right equipment, such as a wading staff and belt. Stay aware of potential flash floods, especially in rivers. Use a buoyancy aid for extra safety.
Overhead power lines and lightning	Electrocution from electricity arcing from power lines, or from a lightning strike.	Do not fish under or near power lines, and avoid fishing entirely during electrical storms. Be aware that carbon rods can conduct electricity.
Animals and vegetation	Injury or disease from livestock (especially bulls or cows with calves), aggressive wild animals, or contact with hazardous plants like Giant Hogweed.	Keep your distance from livestock. Avoid disturbing birds like geese and swans. Learn to identify Giant Hogweed and avoid contact with it.

Hazards and control measures for health and safety

Hazard	Risk	Suggested Control Measures
Weil’s disease (Leptospirosis)	Illness caused by bacteria from rat urine entering cuts or through the mouth.	Never put lines or other wet tackle in your mouth. Cover all cuts and scrapes with waterproof plasters. Wash hands or use hand sanitiser before eating and after fishing.
Fish Handler’s disease	Infection from bacteria on fish scales entering cuts.	Cover cuts with waterproof plasters and clean any wounds as soon as possible. Handle fish with wet hands and use appropriate unhooking equipment.
Sharp hooks and equipment	Cuts, punctures, and eye injuries from sharp hooks, especially when casting or unhooking.	Wear protective glasses, particularly when fly-fishing. Exercise caution when handling hooks. Use barbless hooks, as these are easier and safer to unhook.
Conflict with other users	Potential for physical assault or confrontation with other anglers, wild swimmers, or passersby.	Avoid confrontation, remain calm, and discuss issues politely. If a situation escalates, walk away and report the incident to the appropriate authority, such as the Environment Agency.
Inclement weather	Hypothermia from cold or wet weather, sunburn or heatstroke from hot weather, and slips from rain.	Dress appropriately in layers and wear a sun hat. Bring a change of clothes in case you fall in. Always check the weather forecast before you go.