The Law

As an employer you are responsible for the health and safety of your employees. If you are an organiser of a cricket club or the operator of a premises that relies on the good will of volunteers, then strictly speaking you are not an employer. This does not release you from your moral duties to all those who may be adversely affected by your acts or omissions.

Put simply; you may not be classed as an employer, but you have a moral duty to ensure the safety of ALL who come into your jurisdiction. This may simply be members of your club, children playing on the cricket boundary or a dog walker making their way through the park while you are playing a game or when operating grounds maintenance machinery on your pitch.

For this reason, you are advised to follow guidance drawn from health and safety legislation.

Risk Assessment

First and foremost, you should risk assess your activities, this will allow you to identify hazards, measure the risk and put suitable and sufficient controls in place. In doing so it is recommended you concentrate on the following 5 areas, for more information click here

Machinery/Equipment

Ensure the provision, maintenance and use of plant and machinery is safe. Have the right machinery for the job and train people how to use it safely. If PPE is required, this should be provided, for more information click here.

Chemicals/Substance 

Ensure the safe handling, storage and transport of articles and substances that may be hazardous to health i.e., chemical and pesticides, you may have heard it referred to as (COSHH), for more information click here.

Communication

Ensure you provide suitable and sufficient information, instruction, training and supervision. This might also include consulting with your volunteers to understand any concerns they might have.

Building/Structures and Grounds

Ensure the maintenance of buildings, structures and grounds are in a condition that is safe and without risks to health, notably this includes safe access and safe egress, particularly in emergency conditions.

Operating Environment

Ensure the provision and maintenance of a recreational environment that is safe and fit for purpose. With regards to facilities and welfare arrangements while playing cricket have you provided; toilets, washing facilities and drinking water.  This will also include the provision of a safe area free of hazards such as legionella, asbestos etc, for more information click here.

Other considerations

Have you sufficient first aid cover?

Does your club have insurance that covers you in case of injury?

Do you share your premises/grounds with any other activities or clubs? If so, it is worth getting together to develop a shared system that ensures everyone’s health and safety is protected.

Watch Introduction video here