FAQs Archive - Golf Safety

Q: What health and safety documents should small golf clubs have?

Small golf clubs still have legal duties to manage health and safety, even if they only employ a limited number of staff or operate on a smaller scale. The level of documentation should be proportionate to the risks on site, but there are core documents that are generally expected. At a minimum, most small golf clubs should have: A written Health and Safety Policy (required if 5+ employees) General Risk Assessments covering course, clubhouse and operational areas Fire Risk Assessment for the clubhouse and any buildings COSHH Assessments for chemicals used in cleaning, maintenance or greenkeeping Accident book and incident reporting procedures (including RIDDOR awareness where applicable) Staff training records and induction information Emergency procedures for fire, medical incidents and evacuations Depending on the facilities and activities, additional documents may also be needed such as Manual Handling Assessments, machinery inspection records, golf buggy safety checks, contractor management procedures and records for kitchens, bars or events. Keeping these documents up to date helps small golf clubs demonstrate compliance, manage risks effectively and maintain a safer environment for staff, members and visitors. View our collection of 'Golf Health and Safety Documents' here

Q: Do I need a young person Risk Assessment If someone under 18 Is working?

Yes — if you employ or engage anyone under 18 in your golf club (for example in the clubhouse, kitchen, bar, greenkeeping or administration roles), you should carry out a specific Risk Assessment for young workers. This is required under UK health and safety law because young people are considered to be at greater risk in the workplace due to their age, experience and awareness of hazards. A young person Risk Assessment should consider factors such as: Their lack of experience or training Exposure to hazardous tasks (e.g. chemicals, machinery, alcohol service) Manual handling duties Supervision levels required Working hours and fatigue Emergency procedures and understanding of risks In a golf club setting, this is particularly relevant in areas such as kitchens, bars, greenkeeping operations and maintenance workshops, where risks can be higher. Employers must ensure young workers are properly supervised, given suitable training and not exposed to any work that may be beyond their physical or psychological capability or involve unacceptable risk. The assessment should be reviewed if their role changes or if new risks are introduced. Click here for our ‘Young Person Risk Assessment’

Q: Are Risk Assessments required for golf events and competitions?

Yes — Risk Assessments are required for golf events and competitions to ensure that hazards are identified and appropriate control measures are in place for participants, staff, volunteers and spectators. This applies to all types of organised events, whether it is a small club competition, a charity day, or a larger tournament with increased attendance and activity on the course. A Risk Assessment for golf events should consider factors such as: Increased player and spectator numbers on the course Temporary layouts or course changes for the event Traffic management, including buggies and maintenance vehicles Weather conditions and emergency procedures Public access areas and crowd movement First aid provision and emergency response arrangements Additional controls may include marshals, signage, restricted access zones, adjusted tee times or temporary safety barriers depending on the scale and nature of the event. Risk Assessments should be completed in advance of the event and reviewed if conditions or arrangements change. You can view the full range of our 'Risk Assessments' here

Q: Do driving ranges require Risk Assessments?

Yes — driving ranges are required to have suitable Risk Assessments in place under UK health and safety law. Any business or facility that provides a workplace or public access area has a legal duty to assess risks and put appropriate control measures in place. In a driving range environment, this is particularly important due to the nature of the activity and the potential risks involved to both staff and the public. A Risk Assessment for a driving range should consider hazards such as: Golf ball strike injuries to users, staff or bystanders Incorrect use of equipment or practice bays Poor lighting or visibility in hitting areas Slips, trips and falls around mats, walkways and surfaces Ball collection vehicle movements on the range Weather conditions affecting safety and play Netting or barrier failures (where applicable) Control measures may include safety signage, bay supervision, physical barriers, routine inspections, clear operational procedures and staff training. Risk Assessments should be reviewed regularly and updated whenever the layout, equipment, usage or operating conditions change.