Why Medical Support at Sporting Events Isn’t Optional, It’s the Law (and Just Good Sense)

Discover the legal and safety reasons  why South African schools and sports clubs must have trained medics on standby at sporting events. Stay compliant, stay protected.

Whether you're hosting a school athletics meeting, a provincial rugby tournament, or a community soccer match, there's one question every organiser needs to ask: Are we legally and ethically prepared to respond to a medical emergency?

In South Africa, the law is clear, having appropriate first aid and medical support in place at sporting events is not just a recommendation, it’s a legal obligation.

Let’s unpack what the legislation says and why having trained medics on standby is not just a compliance issue, but a proactive way to protect lives.

South African schools and sports organisations are bound by several legal frameworks when it comes to the health and safety of participants:

1. Occupational Health and Safety Act (Act 85 of 1993)

Section 8 of the OHS Act requires every employer (including schools and sports event organisers) to provide and maintain, as far as is reasonably practicable, a working environment that is safe and without risk to health. This includes venues and activities involving pupils, staff, players, volunteers, and spectators.

2. SA Schools Act and Provincial Education Policies

Most provincial departments of education have adopted safety regulations that specifically mandate the presence of first aid officers or qualified medics at sports days and inter-school competitions. Failure to comply can result in fines, reputational damage, or suspension of event hosting rights.

3. Event Safety Guidelines and Municipal Bylaws

For larger professional or public sports events, municipal bylaws and the SANS 10366:2015 (Safety at Sports and Recreational Events) standard outline specific requirements for on-site medical support, such as:

·  Adequate number of trained medics

·  Access to first aid equipment

·  Proximity to evacuation points and emergency vehicles

Simply put, if you are hosting a sports event and no trained medics are present, you are placing your organisation at legal and reputational risk.

Even with the best planning, accidents can and do happen. Here’s why having professional medics on standby is a crucial part of your event planning:

1. Immediate Response Saves Lives

A professional medic can deliver critical first aid in the moments after a head injury, asthma attack, or cardiac incident, long before an ambulance arrives. This fast intervention often makes the difference between full recovery and permanent damage.

2. Sport Comes with Risk

Contact sports like rugby, hockey, and netball carry a high risk of:

·  Concussions

·  Dislocations or fractures

·  Heatstroke or dehydration

·  Sudden cardiac arrest (especially in youth sport)

Without trained professionals present, these risks can escalate quickly.

3. Reassurance for Parents and Participants

Knowing that medical support is onsite gives peace of mind to parents, confidence to coaches, and a sense of professionalism to your event. It shows you take safety seriously.

4. Incident Reporting and Compliance

Qualified medics don’t just treat injuries, they also keep accurate records, report incidents to relevant authorities, and guide organisers through post-event compliance.

This depends on the size, type, and risk profile of your event. Partnering with a reputable organisation like the South African First Aid League (SAFAL) ensures you meet not only legal standards, but also ethical and community expectations.

SAFAL: Supporting Safe Sport for 90 Years

Since 1935, SAFAL has been a leader in community-based emergency response, offering professional medical support for events across South Africa. We provide:

·  Fully qualified medics and first responders

·  Onsite first aid stations and equipment

·  Nationwide coverage for schools, clubs, and federations

Whether you're planning a school gala, a club tournament, or a national championship, we’re here to help you ensure every athlete, coach, and spectator goes home safe.

Book your event medical support with SAFAL today.

Email: admin@firstaidleague.co.za

Website: www.firstaidleague.co.za