BLACKSPIDER

RISK ASSESSMENT - SAMBO COMBAT MARTIAL ARTS

Club Name: Black Spider Academy

Location: BD5 OEA, Bradford, United Kingdom Activity: Sambo Combat Training & Competition

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1. Activity Overview

Sambo Combat is a full-contact martial art involving throws, grappling, submissions, and striking. Sessions include warm-ups, technical drills, sparring, and conditioning.

 

2. Identified Hazards & Control Measures

A. Physical Injury (Strikes, Throws, Submissions)

• Risk: Bruises, sprains, fractures, concussion

Who at risk: Participants, coaches

• Control Measures:

• Qualified instructors supervising all sessions

• Controlled sparring with skill-matched partners

• Mandatory protective equipment (gloves, shin guards, gum shields, groin guards, headgear if required)

• Clear rules and prohibited techniques enforced

• Immediate stoppage if unsafe behaviour occurs

 

B. Falls & Impact Injuries

• Risk: Head/neck injuries from throws or takedowns

• Who at risk: Participants

• Control Measures:

• Use of appropriate matted flooring (shock-absorbing mats)

• Teaching correct break-fall techniques (ukemi)

• Progressive training (beginners not exposed to high-risk throws immediately)

• Close supervision during drills

 

C. Overexertion / Dehydration

• Risk: Fatigue, dizziness, heat exhaustion

• Who at risk: Participants

• Control Measures:

• Structured warm-up and cool-down

• Regular water breaks encouraged

• Monitoring participants for signs of fatigue

• Adjust intensity based on fitness level

 

D. Infection / Hygiene Issues

• Risk: Skin infections, transmission of illness

*Who at risk: Participants

Control Measures:

• Mandatory clean uniforms and personal hygiene

• Regular cleaning of mats and equipment

• No training with open wounds or infections

• First aid kit available

 

E. Equipment Failure

• Risk: Injury due to faulty gear

Who at risk: Participants

• Control Measures:

• Regular inspection of mats and protective gear

• Removal of damaged equipment

• Use of approved and well-maintained equipment

 

F. Slips, Trips, and Falls (General)

• Risk: Minor to serious injuries

Who at risk: Everyone on premises

• Control Measures:

• Keep training area clear of obstacles

• Dry and clean floors

• Proper storage of bags and equipment

 

G. Safeguarding (Children & Vulnerable Adults)

• Risk: Abuse, inappropriate behaviour

Who at risk: Minors and vulnerable individuals

• Control Measures:

• DBS-checked coaches

• Safeguarding policy in place

• Parental consent for minors

• Supervised sessions at all times

 

H. Emergency Situations

• Risk: Serious injury, fire, or medical emergency

• Who at risk: Everyone

• Control Measures:

• First aider present at sessions

• First aid kit accessible

• Emergency contact details recorded

• Clear access to exits and fire evacuation plan

 

3. Risk Level Summary

• Overall Risk Level: Medium (due to contact nature of sport)

• Residual Risk Level (with controls): Low to Medium

 

4. Additional Controls

• Participant medical forms completed prior to training

• Insurance coverage in place (public liability & personal accident)

• Clear code of conduct for members

• Regular review of safety procedures

 

5. Review

This risk assessment should be reviewed:

• Annually

• After any incident or injury

• When introducing new activities