Hazard Information for teachers Brough of Birsay
The Brough of Birsay is situated on a tidal island at Birsay, 20 miles NW of Kirkwall off the A966. It can only be reached at low tide. Check tide tables at Skara Brae. The site consists of the ruins of a Pictish and Norse settlement and includes a 12th-century church and a small visitor centre. It is the responsibility of teachers and group leaders to complete a risk assessment prior to any site visit Potential hazards at Brough of Birsay with a group. This is a requirement of most Pedestrian access to site education authorities. The following information is • Risk of other moving cars in car park. intended as a preparatory tool and does not • Steep steps leading to causeway may become slippery. replace a teacher’s or • Access to island is along a concrete causeway and then via a rocky beach with group leader’s own risk a steep concrete slope to the monument. assessment. Please be aware that • Check with monument manager about tides – risk of becoming cut off on the changes in weather may island. affect the risks inherent in an outdoor site. External Hazards Pupils should dress for • Many low walls – trip hazard. outdoors. For more information • Rough ground underfoot with many uneven surfaces. about hazards at the • Steep banks close to entrance. Brough of Birsay, or to arrange a free pre- • Grass and stone underfoot may become slippery when wet. visit, please contact the • Site is close to sea – please supervise pupils closely. monument manager on 01856 751414. Internal Hazards • No internal areas.
HISTORIC SCOTLAND