The aim of this presentation is to offer guidance on issues that match officials may encounter on match days in respect to safety at the lower levels of football.

Law 1 – The Field of Play Law 4 – Players Equipment

Take a couple of minutes in groups to think of safety issues connected with Law 1 before and during the game.

What did we consider were the safety issues connected with Law 1?

Inspection of the FOP especially if it is unfamiliar. Dangerous objects on the FOP e.g. broken sticks or glass etc. Hidden objects e.g. holes, sprinkler covers etc. Conditions caused by the weather e.g. frost or standing water Inspect goalposts and flags etc. Animal fouling Vomit Blood The above list is not exhaustive you must be observant

Dangerous objects – have them removed Hidden Objects – Have holes filled and metal covers protected Animal Fouling – Have the home club remove it Vomit – If during the game stop play and check on the players well-being and treat. Have the vomit removed and the residue covered with earth etc. or washed away Blood – Take similar action as you would for vomit

Proximity of the spectators – move them back if possible and use barriers. Bags etc. along the touch line have them removed to a safe distance. Substitutes warming up behind the Assistant Referee.

Take a couple of minutes in the same groups to think of some safety issues connected with Law 4 – Players Equipment

So what did we think the safety issues were connected with Law 4?

Jewellery Vapour rub (eye contact) Glasses (eye conditions) Lightweight supports Blood

Jewellery (remove but consider religious items) Vapour rub (apply to skin not clothing) Lightweight supports (Make sure they do not constitute a danger and do not conceal metal support bars) Glasses (made of poly-carbonate material) Blood (correct treatment of blood injuries and removal of contaminated clothing)

QUESTIONS?

Remember to take nothing for granted where safety is concerned

Thank-you for listening