RFU Regulations - a snapshot guide to providing First Aid in Rugby

All rugby clubs, no matter what size or level have a responsibility for the health and safety of people who use and have access to the Club's facilities. It is possible that during any rugby activity, players, coaches, officials and spectators may suffer injury or sudden illness. To ensure a safe environment in which Rugby can enjoyed by everyone, the club should encourage members, coaches and volunteers to hold a current and relevant First Aid qualification so that first aid incidents can be dealt with in confidence. In guidance with the RFU regulations, all clubs have the responsibility for the following:

• Complete & record a risk assessment to determine the right level of first aid provision.
• Ensure First Aiders are appropriately trained.
• Ensure suitable First Aid facilities and equipment is provided.
• There is the correct amount of immediate cover for rugby activities
• There is access to a telephone so emergency services can be contacted when needed.
• There is clear vehicular access for ambulances and emergency vehicles.

First Aid Equipment An assessment should be carried to work out what first aid equipment is required. The minimum stock level of first aid equipment is recommended as a “suitably sized box for the Club House and bags for pitch side trained personnel”. Rugby Safe outlines a suitable list of contents as below:

• Accident Book
• Antibacterial Hand Gel
• Assorted sterile wound dressings
• Assorted size adhesive plasters
• Triangular Bandages (singular use)
• Sterile eye pads
• Resuscitation face mask (disposable) or pocket mask
• Microporous Tape
• Scissors
• Foil Blanket
• Disposable Gloves
• Antiseptic Wipes
• Assorted size Gauze Swabs
• Assorted size bandages
• Assorted size Sterile wound closure strips
• Sterile Eye Wash Pods
• Safety Pins
• Yellow waste bag
• Water bottle

First aid equipment should always be checked regularly by a nominated person and all items replenished as soon as possible. It is important to note that some items, especially the sterile ones, are marked with an expiry date. These should be replaced before the use by date and disposed of safely. For non-sterile items without dates, it is a matter of judgement when they are not fit for purpose. First Aid Facilities In addition to first aid equipment, club must also provide a suitable first aid room. The rooms should be warm, have good lighting and contain essential facilities and equipment. The RFU guidelines state the rooms must contain the following:

• Sink with hot and cold running water
• Drinking water and disposable cups
• Soap and paper towels
• A suitable bin
• Store for First Aid items
• A container for clinical waste
• A waterproof couch with pillows and blankets
• A chair
• A telephone
• An accident book

Wherever possible the room should be reserved only for First Aid incidents and the designated person should be responsible for the room. It should be easily accessible to stretchers and clearly sign posted. You can find all of our Rugby First Aid Kits by following this link to our website at Rugby First Aid You can also find out more information regarding the RFU regulations here Rugby Safe