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.