Basic safety measures in a professional gym

Safety is an essential aspect of a business model like a gym. Firstly, because it relies on attracting a large number of people to a confined space. Furthermore, in our case, it's also a space where each individual will engage in physical activity, often high-intensity, always exposed to potential hazards. possible injuries or accidents: Falls, slips, dizziness, muscle injuries…

As the person in charge of the gym, you must ensure that its proper functioning minimizes these types of accidents. Preventive measures . In this post, we will see safety measures in a gym which will make your partners much safer in it.

Cover photo: Meghan Holmes in Unsplash

9 safety rules for a gym

Putting these 9 into practice Safety rules for your gym , you will get avoid accidents, Reduce unforeseen events for partners, minimizing surprises, fines, or legal problems.

Conduct a risk assessment

We already explained in our post about the legal requirements for opening a gym in Spain that you must conduct a workplace risk assessment . Similarly, a security assessment by a specialized company can help you find potential Safety problems for your partners , such as complicated emergency access, danger of heavy material falling, irregularities in the floor, poor ventilation or cooling of the premises... everything.

Proper equipment maintenance

All the equipment in your gym (machinery, accessories, changing rooms…) must undergo a Periodic inspection and maintenance that ensure its proper functioning, repairing any defects or replacing parts if necessary. For example, gyms equipped with BodyTone equipment always have a maintenance service that they can use periodically , or whenever they need it, to ensure the proper functioning of their facilities.

That there is proper staff training

A gym is safer if the people who run it are properly trained . This means that each employee has the necessary skills to perform their job efficiently. This includes, for example, solid sports knowledge for gym staff, occupational risk prevention for maintenance personnel, and basic first aid for fitness instructors. By the time you consider hiring staff, you should already have this clearly defined thanks to your business plan , something we explain in this post.

That there be constant supervision

A gym and its members must be properly cared for and under the care that they deserve. Therefore, as the person ultimately responsible, you must ensure that everyone's needs are met, supervising the room at all times, advising your clients, and resolving day-to-day problems quickly and efficiently.

Have adequate signage

There are signs that save lives or prevent accidents. Clearly indicating the emergency exit, warning that the shower water may be too hot, providing illustrative examples of how to use machines… these are signs your customers will appreciate and that They will prevent more than one injury or minor accident.

This involves not only cleanliness, which is essential to prevent infections and contagion, but also Proper organization to avoid tripping over equipment, obstructed spaces… Of course, your gym will require permanent cleaning staff because your gym equipment will be subjected to constant use.

User education and awareness

Injuries are a natural and understandable part of physical exercise. However, we can also prevent them with proper training. Awareness and education of our clients . The room monitors are a fundamental part of this. reviewing your clients' exercises and correcting them in case of performing dangerous or unhealthy postures or exercises. Similarly, explanatory posters, workshops or initiation protocols These strategies can be extremely useful. Furthermore, your clients will perceive all this effort as an added service that they appreciate and that will motivate them to become loyal customers. In this regard, you can download this document with marketing actions you can take to attract your first gym members.

Have exhaustive access control

All your gym members appreciate that you care about their personal safety and peace of mind. A proper Access control will ensure that only authorized personnel and paying members have access to the premises. The result: a calmer, more peaceful environment where your customers feel safe. A wide variety of control systems are available, such as wireless wristbands, cards, and fingerprint access systems.

Establish an emergency plan

It doesn't have to happen, but an incident could occur that forces us to Take urgent safety measures , such as those related to serious injuries, fires, gas leaks… In order to act as quickly as possible and prevent greater harm, It is advisable to have an emergency plan in place where each staff member clearly understands their role and responsibilities in such an event. This way, if necessary, a rapid and safe evacuation can be carried out.

Have a safety protocol in your gym

A A safety protocol in your gym is the best way to always keep up to date with the measures and obligations as previously described. This is a standardized system for the periodic review of the 9 steps mentioned above. As the gym manager, it is your responsibility to ensure that all parties involved in the business take the utmost care with each of these points.

In addition, establish a review and improvement period These measures will allow you to adapt them to the changing needs of your gym if it grows, modifies its offerings, redecorates, or reorganizes the premises. It will be a way to always have the facilities perfectly prepared to avoid accidents in your gym .