Artificial Surfaces
“For an artificial pitch to conform to BS 7044, it must successfully pass a series of tests, including ball roll and rebound, traction, abrasion resistance and tensile strength”
also of the RFU and a number of insurance companies. Within Regulation 22, it clearly states that maintenance is a necessity, and that proof of maintenance must be demonstrated to an appropriate Test Institute at repeated intervals. Artificial rugby pitches must be analysed by Test Institutes on a regular basis to ensure that they continue to meet the performance requirements of English rugby’s governing body. In conjunction with the FA and the
Football Foundation, the RFU has also developed a Framework Agreement for the Provision of Artificial Grass Pitches. Within this, particular focus is given to the need for pitches installed under this scheme to satisfy certain performance criteria, to ensure a high standard of playing surface is provided to end users. From a maintenance perspective, the
the likelihood of a compensation claim? As mentioned previously, some
preventative actions can be put in place by the owners and operators of artificial pitches, such as taking out suitable insurance cover and familiarisation with the conditions of the warranty. However, the majority of the work involved in ensuring a pitch is ‘fit for purpose’ will fall within the remit of the grounds team, and, whilst accidents will always happen, they can often be prevented by ensuring that those charged with the day-to-day running of an artificial pitch are fully equipped with the necessary knowledge and resources to implement best practice, in accordance with industry guidelines. In my experience, the basis of any good maintenance regime for a grounds team is preparation and forward
industry standard is for this process to be carried out, as a minimum, on a weekly basis.
Alongside these everyday tasks, it is important to utilise the services of a maintenance company to complete the more specialist works on your artificial sports pitch. It is worthwhile choosing the right company to work with, as the quality of both the service provided and the works completed can, in the right hands, give you greater assurance that your facility will remain in the best possible condition. A range of criteria can help you to determine the suitability of a maintenance provider, including their method statements and risk assessments for all the services they offer, their health and safety policy, financial stability, quality management systems certification, and any industry
pitch manufacturers are required to identify the individual maintenance needs of each artificial surface, based on determining factors including pitch size and projected usage levels. The Framework Agreement further stipulates that the programme of maintenance must be reviewed regularly, and should be revised to reflect any changes in usage levels or pitch performance. In line with an overall emphasis on quality control, a suitable maintenance programme is considered a prerequisite to ensuring a pitch’s compliance with the manufacturer’s warranty. So, what measures can be put in place
to reduce the risk of injury on an artificial sports pitch, thereby minimising
planning. Establish a routine of daily, in- house inspections to familiarise yourself with your artificial pitch and help you identify and address any minor issues before they become major problems. Torn or ripped carpet poses a potential trip hazard to users of the facility; a lifted seam can be re-stuck for much less than it will cost to replace a full seam, and with less hassle, too. Regular drag brushing forms the backbone of any maintenance programme, and can be completed by pulling a suitable brush, rake or mat over the surface using a tractor. This helps to redistribute any infill which has become displaced through general play, whilst also helping to lift the carpet fibres. The
memberships and accreditations. Cost is also an important
consideration, particularly in the current climate, but as with all things in life, you get what you pay for, and it is well worth investing in the long-term maintenance of your artificial pitch, as the rewards that you reap will be that much greater, whilst the risk of damage and injury will lessen accordingly. The basis of a regular contract with your specialist maintenance provider should focus on the regular removal of the accrued dirt, debris and contamination that can bed in amongst the granular infill. A hardened or compacted infill can impact greatly on ball roll and bounce, as well as the feel of FEBRUARY/MARCH 2012 PC 55
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