Lightning Guidelines
The Risk Management & Incident Response Sub-Committee of Outdoors NSW & ACT has again reviewed the Severe Weather Guidance Note, which is a national tool for the Outdoor Industry. Following some research on overseas practices and some change in thinking that has resulted, the sub-committee is recommending some changes to the document put to the Outdoor Council of Australia for inclusion. WHS legislation imposes very specific responsibilities on our members to do all that is ‘reasonably practicable’ to provide the highest level of protection from hazards and risks arising from their activities.
Thunder is the sound caused by the electrical discharge of lightning, hence all thunderstorms, no matter their level of intensity, will have lightning which has the potential to cause death and injury to participants who remain outdoors during the thunderstorm.
Therefore, when developing Lightning Safety plans Outdoors NSW & ACT encourages members to adopt and promote the following three lightning safety principles and slogans taught by the US National Weather Service, for all work and recreational outdoor activities.
- “NO place outside is safe when thunderstorms are in the area!”
- “When thunder roars, go indoors!”
- ‘Half an hour since thunder roars, now it is safe to go outdoors.’
Outdoors NSW & ACT recommends members follow the recommendations of the following documents when developing their Lightning Policy or Lighting Risk Management Plan.
National Athletic Trainers’ Association Position Statement: Lightning Safety for Athletics and
Recreation. Journal of Athletic Training, 48(2): 258–270. March-April 2013.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3600929/ (accessed 12/5/2022).
Hot Weather Guidelines
As temperatures rise in Australia consideration must be given to the effects of humidity and dehydration on players especially during summer seasons. Preventative measures should be taken to minimize heat injuries. Players, officials and spectators should at all times be encouraged to wear sunscreen, hats and sleeved shirts
Convenors should be trained in heat management and there should be designated recovery area for any player who over heats
Ensure regular hydration by players and officials. Drinks should be available at every competition. Tap water should be available free of charge and in unlimited quantities. Associations may wish to sell other drinks
When the temperature reaches 31 – 37 degrees games should be played as quarters providing extra breaks allowing for rest and fluid intake.
Where available, shelter and shade should be offered for players, spectators and officials who aren’t currently playing
If the temperature reaches 38+ degrees it is recommended that games are cancelled and rescheduled for a later time/date
It will be at the discretion of the individual Association in determining whether to cancel games. When making the decision
Associations should consider all relevant factors including current weather conditions, climate for that part of the country, level of humidity, amount of shade & shelter available and the age and health of player and officials.