Health & Safety Executive published new guidance for Sports Clubs

The Health & Safety Executive has published important new guidance on running a safe sports club.  This is intended to counter misunderstandings about what a club's legal responsibilities are.

The Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 and related regulations apply to club organisers whether employers or self-employed.  Organisers are required to do what is reasonably practicable to ensure people's health and safety.  This means balancing the level of risk against the measures needed to control the real risk in terms of money, time or trouble.  However, organisers do not need to take action if it would be grossly disproportionate to the level of risk.

In addition, anyone (including volunteers) who has control of premises (e.g. a clubhouse or playing fields) has a duty to ensure that the premises, access to them, equipment and substances provided are safe for the people using them.

New guidance on running a safe sports club can be found here.

For more information please contact Jonathan Dunkley or 0191 211 7918.