This industry can no longer accommodate facilitators, instructors, or guides who lack the necessary qualifications. Similarly, providers who fail to adhere to basic standards and quality principles can no longer be excused. Excuses like “we didn’t know” or “nobody told us” will no longer suffice. We expect radical intervention in our industry relating to ISO and SABS standards, Government requirements, etc. Recent drownings and injuries have raised serious concerns and scepticism about industry practices. Unfortunately, amidst these crises, the industry’s commendable efforts often go unnoticed, overshadowed by tragic headlines of children losing their lives. While we welcome measures to ensure quality and safety, the lack of proper consultation from lawmakers may lead to excessive regulation. The question remains: Do you meet the standards?
How many of the following boxes can you tick as a Facilitator of the Outdoors?
Essential Requirements:
✅ Health & Safety
- A relevant and up-to-date health and safety file compliant with the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Act
✅ Facilitator Qualifications
- Certificate from a reputable trainer with evidence of course material, assessment process, and activities you were qualified in
- A curriculum that emphasises technical skills, soft skills, ethics, and emotional awareness
- Trainer/organisation registered, accredited, or affiliated with a recognized body for accountability
✅ Operational Procedures
- Standard operating procedures (SOPs) for all activities offered by the provider
✅ Risk Management
- Well-maintained risk assessment and emergency procedure documents
✅ Record Keeping
- Documented inspection processes and logs
✅ Background Checks
- Up-to-date police clearance certificates for all facilitators working with minors
✅ First Aid
- Current First Aid certificates (Wilderness First Responder preferred) for all staff
✅ Guiding Qualifications (Optional)
- GASG legal guiding qualifications, especially for personnel operating in the tourism space (recommended even for school camp facilitators), with specialisation in their activity
✅ Experience
- Logbooks demonstrating facilitators’ past experiences
✅ Water Safety (Applicable)
- Proof of swim competency and Water Safety/Life Saving certification for staff supervising water activities
✅ Additional Considerations
- Education Policy: Clear understanding of South African Education Department policies on excursions and camps
- National Standards: Awareness of new national standards (SABS, ISO, etc.)
✅ Industry Affiliation
- Membership with a national or international organization like the South African Adventure Industry Association (SAAIA)
Other Suggested Skills
- Basic firefighting
- Emotional awareness (trauma)
- Entrepreneurship
- Labour law
- Hospitality
- Child Protection
- In-depth understanding of the Child Protection Act.
- Registration with organisations promoting child safety (e.g., Unashamedly Ethical)
For more information on alignment and training please get in touch with Dr Pieter L Snyman at pieter@adventureinstitute.co.za. Also, log onto the SA Adventure Industry Association (SAAIA) website for more details on accountable professional conduct.
