Sports Field and Center Reopening Checklists

In this article

• Reopening Trends Amongst Sports Industry
• Get Safely Back to Business with SafetyCulture (formerly iAuditor)
• Featured Sports Field and Center Reopening Checklists

Reopening Trends Amongst Sports Industry

The decision to reopen sports fields and centers depends on the modifying restrictions or policies released by the government. It was made through the guidance of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC), and the Medical/ Safety Advisory Committee. Sports field and center reopening plan should focus on health and safety precautionary measures and the application of risk management processes to ensure business’ readiness to accept patrons, athletes, and employees. The following trends are helpful when planning to reopen fields and sports centers:

Increase in Media Consumption

As one of the precautionary measures against the COVID-19 virus, there are organizations that are considering long-term changes and are planning to move large-scale events to media broadcasts without live audiences. This would minimize the interaction of people in crowded areas and at the same time fans can still experience live games, without having to be physically present.

Intensified Cleaning and Disinfection

CDC recommends businesses to intensify their cleaning and disinfection processes to help reduce the risk of exposure to the COVID-19 virus. There are EPA-approved disinfectants including ready-to-use sprays, concentrates, and wipes that will help disinfect and effectively sanitize their facilities. Also, proper usage of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) should be implemented to avoid any HAZMAT incidents.

Business Precautionary Plan

Adapting to the “new normal” is one way to embrace the global effect of the coronavirus pandemic. It is paramount for businesses to protect and ensure the safety of customers and their employees. The following is advised to be part of the business precautionary measures:

• A workplace coordinator should be assigned to be responsible for any COVID-19 related issues.
• Establish an emergency communication plan to easily contact the authorized persons in case of an emergency.
• Coordinate business precautionary plans to all employees.
• Do not allow sick employees to report at work. Medical clearance must be presented when an employee returns to work.
• Identify essential employees and implement the rotation of shifts to minimize the contact.
• Employees must wear a face mask for their protection.
• A temperature check should be implemented prior to entering the sports fields or centers.
• Cap the number of athletes, coaches, and spectators to limit the crowd.
• Mark the bleachers and practice maintaining the social distance of approximately 6 feet or 2 meters.
• Signages of the implemented change should be clear and unobstructed to avoid customer confusion.
• Promote healthy hygiene practices including frequent hand washing and proper cough and sneezing etiquette.