If you’re a coach, manager, or league director, it’s your job to make sure the field is safe for your players. This athletic field safety checklist will help with gameday prep and keeping track of all the safety measures you need to take before every game.
Goal Posts and Field Markings
The largest items on your field are the goal posts, and they should be in good condition and an appropriate height, width, and color for your sport. They should also be anchored to the ground and padded. They must not have loose parts, cracks, or splinters. You should address repairs immediately, as they can cause injury if someone falls against the goal posts during the game.
Check for Holes and Uneven Ground
Athletes can get seriously hurt if they encounter a dip or hole in the field. Checking for holes in the field should be at the top of every athletic field safety checklist for gameday prep. It is best practice to lap the field and check for any areas where the ground may be disturbed or too soft, especially after weather events.
Field Markings
On a sports field, the markings make all the difference. All lines should be visible and intact. Before the game begins, check for any missing or wiggly lines, which can make it difficult to tell where players need to stand during play and even more difficult to keep track of violations or the score.
Sidelines Are Clearly Marked
If spectators are on the same level as the field, the sidelines should be clearly marked for safety. To do so, we recommend using a field paint sprayer with additional cones to mark the sidelines. Take a few extra moments to ensure the sprayed or painted lines are straight, vibrant, and in the correct color.
Check for Hazards
Check the field and the surrounding areas for glass, sharp objects, exposed electrical lines, and gas lines. If there are any hazardous conditions on the field or in the parking lot that could be a safety hazard during game day, alert someone who can address them.
Ensure your team has a plan in place if they need help repairing any damage or fixing any issues with the field before a game. You should also have someone on hand who is trained and certified as an emergency medical technician during games in case injuries occur.
Safe for Everyone
As you can see, the tips outlined above are simple to follow and will provide a safe playing field for both athletes and spectators. You must take the time to ensure your field is ready for any event. Whether it’s for high school athletics or just a pickup recreation league, taking these steps before every sporting event can help ensure everyone’s safety while having fun.