SOCCER FIELD SAFETY CHECKLIST

 

Before every practice or game, coaches, officials, and designated volunteers should ensure they are performing a field and area safety check. Some fields will have other additional areas of concern that will also require inspection.

 

The checklist below is designed to serve as a general guide for all playing fields:

 

GOAL POST SAFETY:

• All portable goals should be properly secured and anchored. Ensure that the anchoring system is not a hazard to participants. 
• All permanent goals should be properly secured and anchored. Always make sure that the anchoring system is safe and secure.
• Inspect goal net and goal post for any hazards, including sharp corners or loose bolts. Ensure that the goal net is in functioning condition.
• All portable goal posts should be moved by appropriate and authorized persons.
• When portable goals are not being used, nets should be removed and goals should be anchored or chained to each other or to a fence.
• Ensure that there will be no horseplay by players or any members of the general public anywhere near the goal post.
• Make all players and parents aware of the potential dangers associated with portable soccer goals.

 

FIELD AND AREA SAFETY:

• Always check the playing field for hazardous objects including glass, rocks, or other foreign materials.
• Check field for flaws including holes, depressions, torn sections (if artificial turf), etc. If discovered, these should be brought to the attention of your field owners as well as your club. This notification should be done in writing, and you should keep a copy for your own records.
• If the field is used for other sports, it should be inspected for fixtures or equipment that could have been left by the previous user. Any equipment used for other sports should be secured and inaccessible by players or spectators.
• Inspect fencing. Make players and spectators aware of unsafe fencing. There is no reason to climb any fences, including to retrieve a ball.
• Ensure sprinkler heads are seated.
• Ensure players are aware of water drains that reach beyond the touch line. These should be clearly marked.
• The 3' restraining line from the touch line must be free of obstruction, apart from coaches.
• Inspect bleachers for safety. Make spectators aware of any potentially unsafe bleachers.
• Check the condition of and access to all areas accessed by both players and spectators, including locker rooms, restrooms, and portable toilets.
• Ensure parking lots, concessions, and vendors’ areas are clear of any obvious hazards. If hazardous conditions are present, immediately notify spectators and players of these conditions. You should also notify your field owners and your club of all unsafe conditions in writing as soon as possible.