Gear Inspection & Compliance Protocols

Standardized procedures used to verify that protective gear meets safety requirements before and during regulated play.

Overview

Standardized procedures used to verify that protective gear meets safety requirements before and during regulated play.

Key Points

  • Gear may be inspected before events, between points, or at random intervals
  • Items found unsafe or damaged must be repaired or replaced immediately
  • Officials have authority to restrict gear that fails certification or structural standards
  • Players must present all required gear upon request

Details

Inspection protocols for protective gear ensure that all safety equipment remains compliant with established standards. These inspections may be performed prior to match start, during routine checks, or at the discretion of referees if a safety concern arises.

Masks are inspected for lens integrity, strap security, frame stability, and certification markings. Any signs of cracks, degraded foam, or weakened straps may result in mandatory replacement.

Additional protective items such as padding, gloves, or footwear are reviewed to confirm that they do not obstruct hit detection or compromise movement safety. Gear that becomes waterlogged, excessively worn, or structurally compromised during an event may require removal.

Officials maintain the authority to halt play if a protective gear failure presents an immediate hazard. Players are expected to respond promptly to inspection requests and maintain all equipment in safe working condition.

Consistency in inspection procedures helps ensure fairness and clarity in enforcement while reducing the likelihood of preventable injuries.