The evaluation of a risky behavior tool in novice pediatric skiers and snowboarders

Abstract

Skiing and snowboarding are risky sports, and the risk is often highest among youth. This study assesses the reliability of a Risky Behaviour and Actions Assessment Tool (RBAAT) in young, novice skiers and snowboarders. RBAAT was developed based on literature, communication with experts, and the Alpine Responsibility Code. Video footage was collected for 90‐minute periods in the beginner area of the ski hill. A snowboard coach created and rated 100 video clips containing risky or non‐risky behaviors. A ski patroller and a former ski instructor independently rated each video using the RBAAT and came to a final decision with the snowboard coach. Two RAs then used the RBAAT to assess behaviors among novice youth skiing and snowboarding at the ski hill. Percent agreement and kappa coefficients (95% CI) were calculated comparing the RA video ratings to the consensus and for the RA on‐hill ratings. Comparing RA ratings with the consensus for any risky behavior in the video, there was 91.00% agreement (kappa: 0.79; 95% CI: 0.66‐0.92). There was 91.63% agreement for any risky behavior seen on the hill between RAs (kappa: 0.78; 95% CI: 0.68‐0.87). The RBAAT was reproducible for assessing risky ski and snowboard behaviors among beginner children.