Harold Wood Running Club is strongly committed to encouraging our members to participate in all club activities, but the health, well-being and safety of each individual is always our paramount concern.

We recommend levels of training dependent on age, fitness, and ability.

The Lead Welfare Officer, along with the Committee Chair are the club’s lead coordinators for Health and Safety matters. Run Leaders are also responsible for the safety of the group on the sessions they lead.

To support our Health and Safety policy statement we are committed to the following duties:

• Undertake regular, recorded risk assessment of the club premises and all activities undertaken by the club. This includes checking new routes and ensuring route suitability for different ability runners.

• Create a safe environment by putting health and safety measures in place as identified by the risk assessment.

• Ensure that all members are given the appropriate level of training and competition by regularly checking-in with members on individual ability, dependent on age, fitness, maturity and development.

• Ensure that all members are aware of, understand and follow the club’s health and safety policy.

• Appoint a competent club member to assist with health and safety responsibilities.

• Ensure that normal operating procedures and emergency operating procedures are in place and known by all members.

• Provide adequate first aid at club sessions and at club events.

• Run Leaders will report any injuries or accidents sustained during any club activity to the Welfare Officers or other relevant committee member or run leader.

• Any serious incidents may be required to be handled under the Safeguarding Policy, or reported to England Athletics, under EA policies and procedures.

• Ensure that the implementation of the policy is reviewed regularly and monitored for effectiveness.

All club members have a duty to:

• Take reasonable care for your own health and safety and that of others who may be affected by what you do or don’t do.

• Be safe and responsible, particularly when running near busy roads and junctions.

• Ensure you are visible to traffic and other road/pavement users, particularly in winter and when running in the dark or in foggy conditions.

• Ensure you remain hydrated during runs in hot and humid conditions.

• Be responsible when deciding whether to run or not, during extreme weather conditions.

• Co-operate with the club on health and safety issues.

• Correctly use all equipment provided by the club.

• Not interfere with or misuse anything provided for your health, safety or welfare.