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titleWhat is risk management, why it is important, and who is responsible for managing risk

What is Risk Management?

Risk management is the process of identifying, assessing, and reducing risks to ensure netball remains safe and enjoyable for everyone.

Why It Matters

  • Prevents accidents and injuries.

  • Protects clubs, leagues, and volunteers from liability.

  • Unlocks access to comprehensive insurance cover.

Who is Responsible for Managing Risk?

Everyone involved in netball plays a role in risk management:

  • Registered netball clubs & leagues work with venues to ensure risk assessments have been completed, carry out pre-session safety checks, and comply with other risk management and safeguarding policies.

  • Event organisers conduct venue and equipment safety checks before and during play.

  • Coaches & officials maintain vigilance, report concerns, and ensure compliance.

  • Participants should be aware of surroundings and follow safety protocols.

 
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titleRisk Assessments

The Foundation of Safe Netball

All registered clubs, registered leagues, and netball organisers must conduct risk assessments for every activity type, location, and session to help ensure the safety of participants, officials, and volunteers.

What’s required?

A formal risk assessment must be completed:

  • At least annually for each activity type, location, and format.

  • Whenever there is a material change, such as a new venue, different type of session, or updated equipment.

Info

Here’s a template:

View file
nameRisk Assessment Template.docx

A dynamic risk assessment must be carried out:

  • Before every session to check that conditions are safe for play.

  • Any new or emerging hazards should be:

    • Recorded, along with the actions taken to manage the risk.

    • If a hazard cannot be managed safely, the session should not proceed.

Info

Here’s a template:

View file
nameDynamic Risk Assessment Checklist.docx

Risk Assessments should be:

  • Recorded and stored securely for future reference.

  • Reviewed and updated after any incidents or near-misses.

Venue and Session Safety Checks

In addition to formal assessments, both venue providers and netball organisers should ensure that:

  • Playing surfaces and run off spaces are safe, clean, clear of hazards and suitable for netball.

  • Weather and lighting conditions are appropriate.

  • There is clear emergency access and first-aid provision on site.

  • Netball posts and equipment are checked for safety.

  • All players are fit to participate.

  • Any hazards identified on the day are addressed before the session begins.

Ongoing Vigilance

Ongoing vigilance is essential throughout the netball session or event. If conditions change, the risk assessment should be revisited. While a full reassessment may not be necessary, any significant changes, such as hazards, or extreme weather, should be addressed promptly.

If needed, take corrective actions (e.g. removing obstacles). If safety cannot be assured, competing clubs or organisers should jointly decide whether to pause or stop the session.

Ultimately, the safety of players, umpires, spectators, and everyone involved should be the top priority.

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