In some parts of the UK there are simple small caves or mines that are interesting to explore, make good spots for lunch on a walk, or might be used as part of other activities like treasure hunts or field studies. However, using these sites may have licensing implications. Caving is one of the four licensable activity categories, and Mine exploration is a separate ‘specified activity’ within that category. The licensing regulations treat mines and caves differently.
Any provider using such sites with groups should understand the licensing implications and, if necessary, ensure they have the appropriate activities listed on their AALA licence.
Regulation 2 defines Caving as – “the exploration of underground passages (other than those
principally used as show-places open to the public) –
(a) in parts of mines which are no longer worked; or
(b) in natural caves where the exploration of those passages requires,
in order to be carried out safely, the use of rock climbing or diving
equipment or the application of special skills or techniques”.
This means that exploring any former mine working, no matter how small or simple, is a licensable activity. Simple caves, on the other hand, may be licensable depending on the equipment, specialist skills or techniques needed to operate in them safely. In the latter case judgement is needed and advice on how to interpret the regulation may be useful.
Be aware that operating in terrain that is out of scope of the regulations for trekking purposes does not affect this. Exploring a disused mine in the woods or in a lowland area is still exploring a disused mine and, therefore, a licensable activity.
Providers who wish to incorporate the use of such caves or mines into their activity programme should not be put off by this or think they need to become caving or mine specialists. Licensing requires that providers have safety management arrangements appropriate to what they do. Non-standard conditions can be attached to licences to explain the limited nature of what you deliver.
For example, exploring a simple mine in a lunch break during a walk on Coniston, in the Moelwyns or along the coast may not require mine leaders or mine equipment – but it does require appropriate safety management arrangements and a licence if you are leading clients who bring you in scope of the regulations.
Any provider who wishes to apply to add Caving / Mine Exploration to their licence can apply to the AALA (there is no charge). Advice on how to do this can be found in question 6 of our AALA faq’s page.
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