Football is one of the most loved sports on the planet. It is the most watched sport in the world and a great number of adults and children play on a daily basis. It is because of its widespread popularity that injuries are so common. Injuries in football matches can occur while playing or watching the sport. In recent years, there have been increased incidences of injuries both on and off the pitch as the sport’s popularity continues to grow. It is therefore no wonder that health and safety is becoming of increasing concern during football matches. As the increased concern for health and safety of both players and fans increases, basic categories for safety rules are emerging.
These include:
On Pitch Safety
This category of safety covers the players on the pitch. Players are exposed lot of conditions that could result in injuries so players need to learn safety measures to prevent injuries. However, accidents do occur every now and then. It is therefore important the right emergency equipment and personnel are on hand during matches. All professional football matches will have teams of medical staff on stand-by but lower leagues, amateur and youth matches often do not. Therefore it’s important that each team has a dedicated first aider to take care of any injuries and sustain any major problems until an ambulance arrives. There are a range of sports first aid courses available to show you all you need to know.
Stadium Safety
This is becoming of increasing concern especially where large numbers of fans are involved. There is concern over injuries and even death in cases of riots, stampedes, fire and other such emergencies that require crowd control. Crowd control safety procedures should be put in place including the stationing of police and other authorities to control crowds. Basic ethics are also encouraged among fans to prevent injuries including refraining from engaging opponents or carrying alcohol into the stadiums.
Weather Safety
There are also health and safety concerns that arise from the weather conditions surrounding football matches. Although many players enjoy playing in the rain, it can result in dangerous muddy conditions. Slips and falls can be fun but can also result in serious injuries. With the rain also comes thunder and lighting. The presence of lighting can result in death of players or spectators. Matches should never take place under such conditions. They should stop or postponed to another time. If you are involved in the running of a football club at any level then you need to take these health and safety issues into consideration to ensure that you are always prepared for the worst.
