Football/Soccer Risk Assessment Template

Typical hazards & measures

• Inadequate lighting — Schedule activities during daylight hours whenever possible, or ensure adequate artificial lighting if playing in the evening. Regularly inspect lighting systems to confirm they meet safety standards and provide even, clear illumination across the entire playing area. Avoid areas with known lighting issues or restrict play to well-lit sections.
• Tripping over uneven ground — Conduct thorough inspections of the playing field before use to identify and rectify hazards. Maintain the field regularly to ensure even surfaces and remove debris. Mark any unavoidable uneven areas clearly and inform players. Use suitable venues that meet safety standards for organized matches.
• Dehydration and heat exhaustion — Ensure players have access to sufficient drinking water before, during, and after the game. Schedule matches during cooler parts of the day when possible. Educate players on recognizing signs of dehydration and encourage regular hydration breaks. Provide shaded areas during breaks and consider modifying activity intensity in extreme heat.
• Collision between players — Ensure players wear protective gear like shin guards and enforce fair play rules. Coaches and referees should monitor the game to prevent dangerous play. Provide warm-up exercises and have first aid and trained personnel on-site. Educate players on safe tackling and positioning to reduce collisions.
• Insect bites or stings — Encourage use of insect repellent before activities. Inspect and manage field areas to reduce insect habitats. Provide immediate first aid for bites or stings. Educate players on avoiding areas with high insect activity.