Why is a fin cut acceptable when it happens during an ocean session, but not permissible when at a wave pool? What are some of the operational and financial risks associated with building a wave pool? This WavePoolMag Friday Session focuses on Risk Assessment and Management as we tackle what wave pools can do, are doing, and should do to mitigate risk.

To discuss the complexities of risk assessment and management in the context of surf parks, we are joined by Risk Specialist Ash Presser and Risk Advisor Paul Chivers.

“If we take a risk-based approach to something, we’re analyzing the risks associated with that opportunity or whatever it is we’re trying to do,” said Paul. “So for the opportunity of building a surf park, you’d really focus on actually understanding all those stakeholders and consulting. Most surf parks are very entrepreneurial and the depth of engagement with stakeholders and analysis of the risks associated with their opportunity has probably not been as robust as it should be. If we don’t see all those risks, it means we throw money at the wrong controls in a project.”

Ash Presser’s methodology is to start with the problem and work backward to understand how the surf park got there.

“Starting from a worst-case scenario and working backwards, it enables you to have an understanding of the common elements of law, and more so specific around occupational, workplace health and safety, laws that govern equipment, emergency management,” said Ash. “And by working backwards, you can understand what your key or likely exposures are going to be. And there’s been some workshops where we’ve found that ‘hey, these are some significant risk exposures we may not have thought of.'”

Ash Presser, a certified risk and safety specialist affiliated with the Australian Institute of Health and Safety and the University of New South Wales, has made significant contributions to health and safety research in high-risk leisure industries, including surf parks. Notably, he played a key role in developing safety systems at URBNSURF, earning recognition and awards from government and regulatory bodies. Currently, Ash contributes his expertise to Aquatic Risk Services Australia/International, providing risk, safety, and training solutions to surf parks and various industries.

Paul Chivers, the Founding Director of Riskfacilitator, is a seasoned professional with more than three decades of experience in risk and safety management across various international sectors, including TV and film, aviation, education, sport and recreation, healthcare, and defense. Through Riskfacilitator, he works closely with clients ranging from government agencies to large corporations and surf parks.