SRA Code of Conduct

The following guidelines for appropriate behaviour should be followed by all guides when participating in any rafting activities.
The SRA exercises responsible access as promoted in the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, its guidelines form a part of this code of conduct. The Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 establishes a statutory right of responsible access to land and inland waters. Scotland has a framework for access which is amongst the best in Europe. The Act means that it’s important that everyone understands their rights and responsibilities.

Show Respect at all times

Guides should act with consideration and respect for all
other river users.

Remain courteous in all situations.

Be responsible for his/her own actions and those of the whole
raft.

Should act with consideration to other river users with
especial regard to noise levels, locations for games and use of
appropriate language.

Acknowledge considerate behaviour by other water users.

Exercise Responsible Access

Guides should aim to keep clear of other river users as much as possible, so that everyone can enjoy the shared resource.
In particular:

Keep clear of anglers; do not loiter in fishing pools especially
when they are playing a fish.

Always communicate clearly with anglers and other river
users.

Aim to comply with the fisherman’s requests, where safe and
practical.

Do not compromise the interests of other users; allow them to
enjoy their own activities with minimum interruption.

Care for the Environment

Rafting is a low impact activity with all participants and guides working to protect the resources we use.
Rafters should:

Act to ensure that no damage is caused to river banks, wildlife
or vegetation.

Ensure no litter is dropped either in the river or on the banks.

Where availiable use recognised access and egress points
except in emergency situations.

Consider Safety

Guides should ensure their own equipment is safe and sufficient for any foreseeable eventuality.
The Trip leader has the overall responsibility for ensuring the safety of the trip including rafts, safety equipment, participants and other guides, they will carry additional safety equipment at all times.

Communicate clearly with other river users

Guides should ensure they are familiar with the most commonly used river signals and use them to clearly communicate with other users.
Use your whistle to signal other users and warn of your presence.