What the certificate includes
Requirements in relation to sports grounds are far reaching and will include, but will not be restricted to, the following:
- structural integrity of the stand/stadia
- provisions for means of escape
- adequate fire precautions
- emergency services coordination
- provision of suitable management strategies, such as:
- stewarding
- crowd control
- match day safety arrangements
- evacuation procedures
- contingency plans
The certificate holder is under a legal obligation to comply with all terms and conditions contained within the certificate.
Certificates are usually issued to last indefinitely but may contain an expiry date. Under the legislation the local authority has ongoing control and powers of enforcement so as to ensure reasonable standards of safety are maintained.
The legislation allows for the issue of prohibition notices to prevent spectator access to any sports ground or part, when it is considered a safety risk is immediate.