Off-site Sporting Event Risk Assessment

Typical hazards & measures

• Behaviour, spectators and conflict — Display and reinforce codes of conduct, seat spectators clear of run-off areas, brief pupils on respectful play and protest limits, position staff between rival groups if needed, pause or abandon events in case of abuse, and record and debrief all incidents.
• Travel by coach or minibus — Use licensed operators and require seat belts, seat staff throughout to supervise, secure all equipment, confirm routes and ETAs in advance, carry contacts, first aid and a breakdown plan, complete headcounts at boarding, during stops and on arrival, and brief pupils on emergency exits.
• Fatigue, timings and late return — Build buffers into itineraries, cap cumulative minutes per pupil, rotate squads during tournaments, notify families promptly of revised arrival times, carry warm layers and snacks for delays, and ensure staff cover extends to any expected overrun.
• Late arrivals and attendance control — Maintain a live register at departure, on arrival and for the return, reconcile numbers before any warm-up or play, log late joiners or early leavers with time and verified collector, keep a visible muster point, investigate any mismatch immediately, and retain a paper backup.
• Toilets and isolated facilities — Select toilets close to team bases, use a pass-out card and buddy system, and staff corridor pinch points at busy times. Prohibit solo trips for younger pupils, provide emergency contact cards, sweep facilities before departure, and relocate base if supervision sightlines are poor.