People tasked with keeping crowds and athletes safe at sporting events are being urged to play a part in IOSH’s newest group.

The Institution’s Sports Grounds and Events Group was approved by the Networks and International Committee recently, and is now calling for IOSH members to join its ranks.

IOSH immediate-past president John Holden, who has been instrumental in setting up the Group, said: “For a long time we’ve been looking at introducing a group that would provide a base for sharing experiences and best practice in sports safety management. We also wanted to give our members and future members a platform from which to develop their careers. So this is an important step.

“Sport plays a huge part in the fabric of our lives and, while it’s great fun to watch, managing events so that spectators, players and staff are kept healthy and safe is no game – it requires meticulous planning. Some of the world’s biggest events are based on sport, and unfortunately, in this area, we’ve also seen some horrific disasters over the years. That’s why it’s only right that those working in the field have the same IOSH provision as others in the health and safety profession.”

A committee will be set up in the near future. For more information about joining the Group, please contact membership@iosh.co.uk