Neck Guard Safety Reminder

This important notice is from Ted Houghton, Executive Director, British Columbia Speed Skating Association:

SAFETY REMINDER

An issue was brought to the attention of SSC ODC this week and was discussed by our committee during our monthly conference call December 09, 2009. The issue concerns the wearing of neck guards by skaters participating in all Speed Skating Canada short track competitions. We are aware that certain athletes have not been wearing neck guards during SSC competitions, believing that the kevlar suits they are wearing provide adequate protection and comply with current regulations.

SSC ODC wishes to remind you that it is contrary to SSC regulations to skate without a neck guard based upon Rule N4-103 paragraph (b) found on page N-51 of the 2009-2010 Procedures and Regulations.

This rule states: All skaters must wear a neck protector during short track competitions. The neck protector must be of a bib type design covering the neck and all the soft parts of the upper chest area. It must be made of ballistic nylon as the main material. The neck protector

must securely fastened and tucked into the skin suit. Until and if this rule is changed, updated or deleted, it is applicable.

Officials are placed in an awkward position if they permit skaters to skate without a neck guard and someone is injured as a result. In light of the recent spate of accidents and injuries and the discussions related to safety and medical services for our competitions which were held during the recent LTPAD meetings in Ottawa, SSC ODC believes it would be placing officials, coaches and indeed, SSC in a very precarious position if this rule were to be ignored.

SSC ODC hopes that you will understand our grave concerns and that you will advise athletes that the rule in question will be followed. SSC ODC is not in a position to entertain arguments regarding the relative safety of kevlar suits in this regard. The only issue is whether or not a current rule designed for the safety and protection of athletes is being followed.

 Image from Kitchener Waterloo Sertoma Speed Skating Club