Safety tips for horseback riding programs

When we think about summer parks and recreation programs we often think about soccer, softball/baseball, swimming, and sometimes arts and crafts.  

But could your city programs also include horseback riding? The League of Minnesota Cities Insurance Trust (LMCIT) loss control team receives questions every year about liability related to horseback riding lessons or “saddle clubs” in their parks and rec programs.

Safety tips for horseback riding programs 

Riding horses could be an exciting parks & rec program that many residents may look forward to and enjoy. When considering whether to have these types of programs, also consider the safety of the program and the dangers. A few safety measures and good training can ensure that horseback riding is fun and safe for all!

• Inspect the riding area for each event. Ensure that the area is clear of any obstructions and limit any dangerous terrain. This makes it safe for both the rider and the horse.
• Ensure that all riders are wearing proper attire.
• Shoes should be closed toe to protect your feet in case a horse should step on them. Shoes should also have a heel to prevent your foot from going through the stirrup.
• Pants should always be worn, absolutely no shorts.
• Shirts should always be tucked in.
• Gloves are good for preventing hand injuries and can also prevent the reins from slipping if hands become sweaty.
• Saddles should fit the rider, so having a variety of different-sized saddles is helpful.
• Make sure all riders are always being supervised. Staff should be trained on safe horseback riding, all the safety rules, and should make sure that all riders are comfortable.
• Riding staff should be comfortable and experienced around horses, be trained to watch for signs of discomfort in the horse, and be able to train all riders effectively.
• Ensure that all riders have reviewed and signed liability waivers. If participants are under the age of 18 make sure a parent/guardian signature is obtained.
• Post signage of what riders should and should not do to help educate riders and make them more aware anytime they are around horses.

Horseback riding can be an exciting program to offer, so let’s also make sure it’s safe! After all, ensuring a safe and fun environment is what every parks and recreation program is all about.

For additional information, this link to the Department of Natural Resources site on horseback riding is a good source.

https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/horseback_riding/safety.html

Submitted by: Troy Walsh, Loss Control Consultant

Make a plan for cleaning and disinfecting workplace surfaces

Keeping workplace surfaces clean is a very important aspect that sometimes get forgotten about along with all the other protocols used to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Disinfecting surfaces around the workplace goes hand in hand with regularly using soap or sanitizer to prevent the spread of the virus through touch.                                                            

When to clean & disinfect

When there are no confirmed or suspected cases of COVID-19 in the building, then a thorough cleaning once a day is usually enough to remove viruses from surfaces. Disinfecting after cleaning to kill any remaining germs can further reduce the risk of spread around the office too.

It may be worth cleaning and disinfecting more often if the workplace has:

•             High traffic areas.

•             Low number of people wearing masks/disinfecting hands.

•             Higher COVID-19 case rates in the area.

•             Individuals with higher risk factors (age, health conditions, etc.).

•             Areas containing young children or others who do not wear masks/wash hands sufficiently.

Implement a plan

There is almost no limit to what surfaces can be potentially touched by multiple people in your space. Pens, keyboards, coffee maker/mugs, tables, doorknobs, light switches, elevator buttons, etc. are just some of the places not always considered when disinfecting.

Ideally, when disinfecting after cleaning, using a product approved by EPA List N will be the most effective and trustworthy. Remember to refer to the label for proper directions on disinfecting.

Lastly, make sure all necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) is provided for those cleaning the workspace.

If someone turns out to be infected in your workplace, there are some extra measures to take when cleaning and disinfecting the area afterward. Temporarily close off the area where the infected person occupied and wait several hours to a day before going in. Properly ventilate the area by having windows open or use a fan/HVAC system to increase the air circulation. Enter the area with proper PPE once it is ready, vacuum the space if necessary, and finish by cleaning then disinfecting the needed surfaces.

Educate all employees to identify the early symptoms of COVID-19, and develop policies that will train and protect workers who clean and are potentially exposed to the virus. Ensure these workers are educated on the hazards of improperly handling disinfectants and compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Administration standards on hazard communication and bloodborne pathogens.

The link below provides the most current Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines on cleaning and disinfecting your facilities.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/disinfecting-building-facility.html 

Submitted by: Michael Neff, Loss Control Consultant