The following information is lifted directly from the FA's website and all managers should ensure that they follow the rules below. The F.A.’s campaign, which builds on guidelines circulated by the game’s governing body in 1991 and 1999, identifies four easy-to-follow golden rules for the safe use of goalposts. These are:
* Check It - make sure goalposts are in good condition and properly constructed. Home-made goalposts never be used - they do not have built-in safety features and may be particularly hazardous for younger players.
* Secure It - goalposts of any size must be securely anchored to the ground. Portable goalposts must be pinned or weighted down to prevent them toppling forward, and should be removed from the pitch when not in use and stored securely.
* Test It - adults should test the goalposts to make sure they are stable by exerting a downward force on the crossbar, backward force on both upright posts and forward force on both upright posts.
* Respect It - goalposts should only be used for their intended purpose; in particular, children should not swing on them. It is important, especially over winter periods when the ground is sometimes frozen, that goalposts that reply on hooks and pegs to secure them in to the ground are secure. If you cannot secure your goalposts, either because of the ground or lack of equipment, then tell the referee and ask him to abandon the game (which he should do). If the referee won’t abandon the game and you are still unhappy, then abandon it yourself. Further information can also be seen at: http://www.thefa.com/NR/rdonlyres/8C25553B-01E4-48D3-8B39-A59EA1CD904D/91767/GoalpostSafety_Notes4.pdf |
|
