Whether you manage a gym or a leisure centre or use the facilities as a customer, health and safety policies that spell out in detail what both employees and leisure centre users need to do to reduce risk is a valuable tool. Whether it is swimming, lifting weights or simply exercising to music. Membership leisure centers should really have an entry system in place so that only members and staff may enter. This lowers the risk of theft and other crimes.
Signs become an important safety tool when posted where all can see. Safety rules should be clearly spelled. Warning and caution signs need to be posted, as well as both fire and emergency signs required by local government.
1 Staff Training
A health and safety policy should include provisions for staff training. At least one staff member should know CPR and all staff must have a first aid certificate. If a defibrillator is kept on-site, one or more members of staff should have training regarding it’s correct use. Leisure Health and Safety ruling recommends that all fitness professionals in leisure centers that instruct or supervise physical activity of staff or customers have the H & S qualifications.
2 Fitness Assessments
All gym users must have a fitness assessment before using any of the facilities. A cardiovascular fitness risk screening together with a health questionnaire should,without fail, be taken. The results must be interpreted by qualified personnel. New members should also be given an introductory tour of the facility together with instruction in the safe and proper use of machines.
3 Equipment Maintenance
The fitness equipment used in a gym, such as treadmills and weight machines, need regular maintenance for safety. A policy must in place regarding equipment upkeep and safety. Equipment also needs proper positioning. For example, if treadmills are located much too close to a wall, a person who falls off the belt could hit the wall, incurring injury. Gym policy should state that staff receive training in the operation of any new equipment introduced into the gym.
4 Emergency Responses
Every leisure center has to design a written policy regarding emergencies. The system and its procedures require rehearsal on a regular basis, ensuring the readiness of staff to handle even minor first aid events as well as serious emergencies.
For more detailed information regarding leisure center health and safey read here.
