Part 1: Statement of intent

This is the health and safety policy of Royal Sutton Coldfield AC. The club is fully committed to ensuring, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health. safety and wellbeing of its officials, team managers, coaches, athletes, volunteers and any person who may be affected by our activities.

Royal Sutton Coldfield AC firmly believes that good health, safety and wellbeing practice complements the cultures of having fun and high performance that are key elements of a vibrant athletics club.

Our health and safety policy is to ensure the highest standards of health, safety and wellbeing in relation to our activities. 

Signed: Royal Sutton Coldfield Athletics Club

Date: 13th August 2024

Next Review Date: 13th Aug 2025

Part 2: Responsibilities for health and safety

1. Overall and final responsibility for health, safety and the discharge of this policy statement lie with the club’s Committee and ultimately, the Chair.

2. Day-to-day responsibility for ensuring this policy is put into practice is overseen by the club’s Committee who may co-opt others to assist with particular tasks. and discharged via a number of means including:

a. Risk assessment of premises, activities and  proposed new activities.
b. Investigation and/or review of any accidents or near misses.
c. Spot checks.
d. Review.
e. Implementing the outcomes of risk assessments and reviews.

3. All people representing the club as officials, managers, coaches, athletes or volunteers should, as far as they are able to do so:

a. Co-operate with the club on health and safety matters.
b. Take reasonable care of their own health and safety.
c. Use equipment appropriately; and
d. Report all health and safety concerns to an appropriate official.

Part 3: Arrangements for health and safety

Royal Sutton Coldfield Athletics Club’s arrangements include: 

Risk Assessment

  • Completion of relevant risk assessments and related action. 
  • Review of risk assessments when conditions or activities change. 

Review and Check

  • Actions arising following risk assessment will be implemented and checked.
  • Equipment will be inspected regularly and before use.
  • Activities will be supervised appropriately.
  • First aid provision will be maintained through coaches and as otherwise required for Club activities and events.
  • There will be engagement with the people that the procedures and risk assessments are aimed at protecting. In particular, the reasons for some health and safety related protocols will be explained to athletes and others who may have specific needs or to younger athletes.
  • Appropriate training will be provided, in the first instance through continuing coach education. 
  • Reports of near misses and accidents will be investigated proportionately.
  • We will make sure escape routes are well signed and kept clear.

Action

Royal Sutton Coldfield AC Club is committed to:

  • Learning from when things have gone wrong.
  • Learning from England Athletics and/or UKA best practice guidance.
  • Taking action on any lessons learned from investigations, spot checks or other learning.
  • Reviewing regularly the club’s approach to health, safety and welfare.