OHTA SAFETY SIDELINES JUNE 2009 - HELMETS
Additions. C Colwell 2022
So we all know that we need to wear helmets that are ASTM certified - pardon the pun, but it’s a no-brainer!
How do you choose a helmet?
First off, all of us have either a ‘round’ or an ‘oval’ shaped head. It is of paramount importance that your helmet fits your head shape properly. Different brands fit oval or round, so try different styles and brands.
The safest helmet is the one that fits your head. The helmet must not rock forward, backwards or sideways on your head. Unfastened, it should not come off if you turn your head upside down and gently shake. The retention harness should fit snugly under your chin, allowing for only 1 finger to slide under. Side straps with a joiner clip must be adjusted to make a V under your ear (this part especially helps stop the front to back movement). It should be snug enough on your head (try different styles and brands for head shape) but not cause a headache. If you have long hair and intend to wear it tucked under the helmet fit your helmet accordingly. (Note: pony club does not recommend this - if the hair were to fall out, it could affect the fit in case of impact. Better to use a hairnet and let it hang down your neck.)
Once fastened, the buckle should sit flat on the side of the face or under the chin, not on the edge of the jaw. Check the fastening clip or buckle frequently; it should not pull apart without undoing the release mechanism.
A helmet works by the use of microscopic bubbles that are built to compress and fracture to absorb impact. Overheated helmets are unsafe- DO NOT Store in your car
Local shows are looking for ASTM approved ONLY. International ratings to look for are: BSEN, PAS, SEI, CE Mark.
In the event your helmet is involved in an accident; Helmets MUST be replaced WITH A MAX OF 5 years
Head injuries are the most common reason for equestrian-elated hospitalization. Riding slowly does not necessarily make it any safer. Severity of injury is mostly influenced by your distance from the ground. A fall from only 2’ of height can cause permanent brain damage.
Don’t let this happen to you: wear a correctly fitted and fastened helmet at all times when riding.
Corner-Stone-Farm.com
MINIMUM SAFETY STANDARDS COACHING AND INSTRUCTION OF RIDING PROGRAMS
the establishment shall have liability insurance in place and be able to show proof of coverage at any time
‘Release and Acknowledgement’ forms must be signed by all participants. Those participants under the age of 18 (or under the age of majority in applicable province) must have ‘Release and Acknowledgement’ forms signed by their parent or legal guardian
signage relative to important rules to abide by when around horses should be posted in a prominent area and should be discussed with and understood by all students participating in any type of riding program
First Aid kits are located in Barn , RIding Ring and Arena - point out the locations
fire precautions and emergency evacuation procedures should be posted and understood by staff in the event of an emergency - Students should leave all buildings and gather at the maple tree near farm gates .
- horses should be moved to sand ring or left in paddocks
IF lighting/Thunder then students should be in barn or n vehicles or house until pick up
- horses should be moved to barn or left in paddocks
hazardous material or equipment of any kind should be stored out of reach of horses, riders and the general public
all head instructors shall be at least 18 years of age and have a minimum of 5 years’ experience or be certified by the applicable Federal Equestrian Association
assistant instructors shall be allowed to instruct only while under the supervision of a head instructor and must be 16 years of age with a minimum of 3 years’ riding experience
all instructors and assistants must understand and periodically review safety precautions and the steps to be adhered to if an accident occurs
all instructors shall have a valid first aid certificate and CPR training
accident forms must be available at the facility and must be completed by the instructor and any witnesses immediately after an accident has occurred
- if an incident occurs -1. take a video of the horse used the safety equipment ( saddles bridle etc in use) and 2. video the witnesses statements and the riders statement. **** video private never to be shared - only with Cathy ****
all instruction will take place in a safe and suitable environment
no public lessons are to be left unattended
it is recommended that there be a ratio of 6 students to one instructor (maximum 8:1)
instructors should ensure that all students can handle the horse appropriately and understand the basic safety and tacking-up rules
all riders need to be at least six years of age before they are allowed to ride a horse without direct assistance. Until a rider is able to stop, turn, and ride in a balanced and controlled manner, they should not be allowed to ride without direct assistance in an uncontrolled environment
beginners should be supervised by a knowledgeable employee of the facility during the pre-mount handling and tacking-up of the horse or pony
a safe riding helmet and proper footwear with a defined heel must be worn at all times when riding any type of horse
all tack must be properly fitted for horse and rider, and must be in good repair
no stallions, horses under five years of age, sick, lame or blind horses will be used by anyone participating in lessons