The Coronavirus pandemic has impacted sport activity at all levels, and whilst there still remains significant uncertainty, it can be challenging to plan ahead with purpose. However, with restrictions gradually being eased across areas of the country, and outdoor sport activity seeing some small signs of resuming, now could be an opportune time for sports clubs to consider reviewing their risk assessments.
What is a Risk Assessment?
Risk management relates to the process of making decisions that will help to avoid and reduce the impact of unexpected/undesired outcomes. People need to be fully aware of what can go wrong and be there to implement strategies to prevent them or at least manage them. To keep things running effectively, these decisions need to become recognised rules for running of the club for everyone involved.
Risk assessments can apply from the state of the clubs equipment, to planning a large event. Clubs should be able to demonstrate that they have undertaken a risk assessment in relation to all factors that could present a hazard to health and potentially cause injury or death.
Five steps to risk management
- Identify potential hazards.
- Establish who might be harmed and how.
- Assess the risks, decide whether existing precautions are adequate or whether more steps are required.
- Record your findings.
- Regularly review your assessment and revise if necessary.
The HSE website is a natural source of information for clubs looking to develop a risk assessment for the first time.
COVID-19 Grassroots Sport Return Considerations
To assist clubs in preparing a return to some outdoor activity during the COVID-19 pandemic, we have outlined some areas to consider when reviewing a risk assessment document. As with any risk assessment it will need to be tailored to a clubs individual needs, so this is for guidance only. Click here to download.