What is the first step in establishing a range safety plan?

The first step in establishing a range safety plan is conducting a risk assessment of the range. This assessment is crucial because it identifies potential hazards and risks associated with the shooting activities at the range. By evaluating the environment, facilities, equipment, and the type of shooting that will take place, the person in charge can determine what safety measures and protocols need to be implemented to mitigate those risks.

Understanding the specific risks allows for informed decisions to be made regarding the design of the range, safety equipment requirements, emergency procedures, and training needs for both staff and users. This proactive approach helps ensure a safe shooting environment before moving on to other elements like staffing, training programs, or administrative systems. Each subsequent step in the safety plan relies on the insights gained from the risk assessment, making it the foundational aspect of any effective range safety plan.