Health & Safety Policy

Policy Statement

Haslemere Border Athletic Club is committed to ensuring, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety, and welfare of all members, coaches, volunteers, and visitors during club activities.

This policy sets out our commitment to maintaining safe training environments and procedures.

Responsibilities

Risk Assessment

All training activities are subject to risk assessment:

1. Identify hazards
2. Assess who might be harmed and how
3. Evaluate the risks and decide on precautions
4. Record findings and implement them
5. Review and update regularly

First Aid

Emergency Procedures

In the event of an emergency:

1. Call 999 if serious injury or immediate danger
2. Administer first aid if qualified
3. Contact parents/guardians for juniors
4. Secure the area if necessary
5. Record the incident
6. Report to committee

Training Environment

Before each session, coaches will:

• Check the training area for hazards
• Ensure lighting is adequate
• Check weather conditions are suitable
• Inspect equipment for safety
• Set up appropriate safety zones
• Brief athletes on any specific hazards

Equipment Safety

All equipment used by the club:

• Is regularly inspected and maintained
• Is used only for its intended purpose
• Is appropriate for the age and ability of athletes
• Meets relevant safety standards
• Faulty equipment is removed from use immediately

Weather Conditions

Medical Conditions

Members must inform coaches of:

• Asthma or breathing difficulties
• Heart conditions
• Epilepsy or seizure disorders
• Diabetes
• Allergies (especially severe allergies)
• Any other condition affecting training
• Current medications

This information is kept confidentially by coaches and used only to ensure safety.

Incident Reporting

All incidents must be recorded in the accident book, including:

• Date, time, and location
• People involved
• Description of incident
• Injuries sustained
• First aid given
• Actions taken
• Witnesses

Serious incidents must be reported to the committee within 24 hours.

Transport

When transporting athletes to events:

• Written consent from parents required (juniors)
• Drivers must have valid insurance
• Minimum 2 adults in vehicle with children where possible
• Seatbelts must be worn
• No more than stated passenger capacity
• Drivers should not be under influence of alcohol/drugs

COVID-19 and Infectious Diseases

To prevent spread of infectious diseases:

• Members should not train if unwell
• Follow current public health guidelines
• Maintain good hygiene practices
• Report cases of infectious disease to coaches
• Club may implement additional measures as needed

Review and Updates

This policy is reviewed annually and updated as necessary following incidents or changes in circumstances.

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