Safety Policy

Since the foundation of Tangent Expeditions in 1989 we have never had a serious accident other than minor cuts and bruises and mild frostbite. We are therefore very proud of our 100% safety record and do everything possible to maintain a safe code of practice in the mountains.

In the unfortunate circumstance of an accident occurring which requires casualty evacuation, this is likely to be carried out by a local helicopter or Twin Otter ski-plane. As with any other mountain environment, and especially with regard to the extremely remote nature of many of our expeditions, this is weather dependent and delays of several days may occur. Clients must therefore accept and acknowledge this risk in their booking application.

The Greenland authorities, as represented by the Danish Polar Centre, stipulate that all expeditions to Greenland carry a 121.5mhz emergency position indicating radio beacon (EPIRB). When activated this beacon sends out a morse code signal via satellite to identify the approximate position of the party. At Tangent we do not feel that this alone gives sufficient backup and safety margin. We have therefore extended our safety policy to stipulate that every Tangent led expedition carries two 121.5mhz EPIRB’s, in addition to a much more powerful and accurate 406mhz EPIRB, along with a VHF airband radio allowing voice communication with aircraft as well. The latter provides access to high flying jets who can relay messages to the rescue services. Rocket flares, mini flares and hand smoke flares are also provided. Tangent owns two satellite telephones which are also available to our expeditions ensuring that this ultimate form of communication is available to most of our groups, the only exception being if we have more than two expeditions running simultaneously.
All our expeditions operating inside the Northeast Greenland National Park carry firearms and ammunition as a precaution and deterrent against a polar bear encounter. However our expeditions take place in areas of very minimal risk which are well away from the coastal regions where polar bears are more likely to be encountered. Since we began our operations in 1989 we have only had one previous encounter in which no one was injured and the bear was scared away using flares, but as part of our safety policy each expedition will always begin with a rifle training session using live rounds.
We do not allow ANY solo journeys or solo ascents to be made during Tangent expeditions. This is a general rule applied to ALL Greenland expeditions and is a stipulation laid down by the Greenlandic Authorities, as represented by the Danish Polar Centre, who are responsible for the granting of expedition permits. It is a stipulation of the permit.

To view our full Safety Policy and Risk Assessment please contact Tangent for access to the restricted area.