Yate & District Athletic Club – Safety Policy

1. Purpose

Yate & District Athletic Club is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for all members, coaches, volunteers, and visitors. This policy outlines our approach to preventing accidents, managing risks, and promoting a culture of safety across all club activities.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all club members, coaches, officials, volunteers, parents/carers, and any individuals involved in club training sessions, competitions, and events.

3. Responsibilities

• Club Committee: Overall responsibility for implementing and reviewing the safety policy.
• Coaches and Officials: Responsible for maintaining safe training environments, reporting hazards, and supervising athletes appropriately.
• Athletes and Parents/Carers: Expected to follow safety instructions, report concerns, and act responsibly at all times.
• Welfare Officers: Ensure safeguarding procedures are followed and support members with concerns related to wellbeing and safety.

4. General Safety Guidelines

• All activities must be risk-assessed by qualified coaches or event organisers.
• Athletes must warm up and cool down appropriately to prevent injury.
• Equipment must be checked regularly for damage or defects and used only under supervision.
• Training areas should be kept clear of obstacles and used in line with UKA and facility guidelines.
• Emergency contact details must be available for all athletes at every session.
• First aid kits must be accessible at all training sessions and events.
• A trained first aider must be present during all club-organised training and competition.

5. Event-Specific Safety

• Throws (e.g., hammer, javelin, shot): Strict control of throwing areas, including designated cages, marked sectors, and safe retrieval procedures. No unauthorised access to throwing zones.
• Jumps: Check take-off boards, landing beds/pits, and runways for safety before use.
• Sprints/Middle Distance: Ensure running lanes are clear and athletes are spaced appropriately to avoid collisions.

6. Weather and Environmental Safety

• Activities may be cancelled or adapted in extreme weather (heat, cold, storms).
• Hydration and sun protection must be encouraged in hot weather.
• All-weather track safety procedures must be followed in icy or wet conditions.

7. Accident and Incident Reporting

• All accidents, incidents, or fatalities must be recorded using the UKA health and safety incident report system.

8. Safeguarding and Welfare

• The club follows UK Athletics’ safeguarding policies and codes of conduct.
• All adults in regulated roles must hold a valid DBS check and appropriate qualifications.
• Any safeguarding concerns must be reported to a Club Welfare Officer promptly.

9. Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or after any significant incident. Updates will be communicated to all members.