Safety Guidelines for Secondary Interschool Athletics in Alberta

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Playing Fields (cont.)
• Turf should be sufficient to provide proper traction and impact absorption.
• Holes, ruts and severely uneven surfaces should be brought to the attention of
the student athletes.
• If more than one activity is underway, ensure safe distance between activities.
• The activity should be rescheduled if, in the opinion of the official, and after
consultation with both teachers/coaches, the playing field is deemed to be
unsafe for play.
Tarmacs
• Asphalt areas should be level and free of holes and broken asphalt..
Fencing and Backstops
• Metal fencing and backstops should have clips and attachments safely secured,
fencing tight and secure to frame, no holes in fence or at ground level, anchors
that are stable to the ground, in good condition and safely covered, and posts
free of corrosion.
Benches and Bleachers
• Benches and bleachers should be free of protruding nails, splinters, cracked or
rotten wood and the anchors to the ground should be in good condition and
safely covered.
Stairs
• Stairs should be clear of obstacles, free of protruding nails, cracks, or splinters,
have treads in good condition, and secure railings.
Goals
• Goals should have framework free of protruding hooks, anchors to ground
should be stable, in good condition and safely covered, posts should be free of
corrosion and, when appropriate, goalpost padding should be securely fastened
on goalpost assembly.
Weather Conditions
• Supervisors should monitor weather conditions and postpone or modify the
activity to ensure safety of all individuals.
Thunderstorms
• Establish an action plan in advance for all persons involved.
• Keep an eye on the sky watching for dark, heavy clouds.
• Take precautions even if the thunderstorm is not directly overhead. Lightning
may strike several kilometers from the storm.
• Safe shelter locations and means of access to them should be identified prior to
commencing outdoor activity.
• One supervisor should be designated to monitor the weather and initiate the
evacuation process when appropriate.
• Be alert for Environment Canada weather warnings announced on radio,
website or television.
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Safety Guidelines for Secondary Interschool Athletics in Alberta - February 2012