SAFETY STANDARDS
National Safety, Medical, and Environmental Protocols. A mandatory framework ensuring integrity and protection across all NWANA sanctioned activities.
1. MISSION & MEDICAL READINESS
Protecting athletes through standardized preparation and emergency response.
PURPOSE
- Protect athletes from preventable injuries and hazards.
- Ensure responsible course design and planning.
- Standardize emergency procedures across all regions.
- Promote inclusive safety for all skill levels.
MEDICAL COVERAGE
- Designated medical lead or first responder on-site.
- Visible first-aid station with basic supplies (AED, ice).
- Clear EMS access routes for all course sections.
- Incident reporting protocol for all injuries.
2. ENVIRONMENTAL & WEATHER
Mandatory responses to heat, air quality, and severe weather conditions.
HEAT & COLD
Heat: Event delay or cancellation if WBGT/Heat Index is extreme. Mandatory hydration & shade.
Cold: Mandatory warnings for ice/frostbite risk; clothing equipment checks.
AIR QUALITY (AQI)
AQI < 100: Safe to proceed.
AQI 101–150: Caution for sensitive athletes.
AQI > 150: Mandatory modification, postponement, or cancellation.
SEVERE WEATHER
30/30 Rule: If lightning is within 6 miles, pause event for 30 min after the last strike.
Shelter locations and evacuation paths must be pre-identified.
3. OPERATIONAL STANDARDS
Technical requirements for courses, equipment, and athlete conduct.
COURSE SAFETY
- No sudden obstacles or sharp blind turns.
- Controlled and marked steep descents.
- Adequate width for safe overtaking.
- Clear barriers from traffic/spectators.
EQUIPMENT
- Structurally intact poles (no cracks).
- Functional straps securely attached.
- Sharp tips covered in crowded start zones.
- Control of poles at all times.
CONDUCT
- No sudden stops endangering others.
- Signaling when slowing or stepping aside.
- Immediate compliance with judge instructions.
- Zero intentional obstruction.
Safety is Mandatory
Every NWANA-sanctioned event must have a documented Emergency Action Plan (EAP). Failure to comply with safety standards results in immediate revocation of sanctioning.