Purpose
This policy outlines the mandatory procedures and safety controls for full contact sparring at SouthCity Boxing & Fitness. It is designed to:
- Protect the health and safety of all members
- Minimise risk of injury and transmission of blood-borne diseases (e.g. HIV, Hepatitis B/C)
- Define participant eligibility and conduct expectations
- Demonstrate our commitment to compliance with WA legal and safety standards
Scope
This policy applies to all:
- Members participating in sparring sessions
- Coaches and staff supervising contact drills
- Boxing and combat-sport related sparring on premises
Legal Framework
SouthCity Boxing & Fitness operates in accordance with:
- Work Health and Safety Act 2020 (WA)
- Civil Liability Act 2002 (WA)
- Combat Sports Act 1987 (WA)
- Guidelines from the Combat Sports Commission of Western Australia
Assumption of Risk
Full contact sparring involves inherent risks, including injury and potential exposure to blood-borne viruses. All sparring participants must:
- Sign a Sparring Risk Acknowledgment & Waiver
- Confirm understanding and acceptance of these risks
Eligibility Requirements
- Participants must be 17+ years (13+ with parent/guardian consent)
- All participants must complete a pre-sparring induction
- Competitive fighters must submit a valid serology clearance certificate (dated within 12 months)
- No participant may spar if they have open wounds, infections, or are under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Sparring Safety Protocol
Before Sparring:
- Coach conducts visual health check
- All gear (gloves, wraps, mouthguards, headgear) must be worn
- Warm-up and stretching mandatory
During Sparring:
- Supervision by qualified coach required
- Controlled contact only – no unsanctioned full-force sparring
- Immediate stop if bleeding, uncontrolled aggression, or injury occurs
After Sparring:
- Disinfect any affected equipment or mats
- Log all incidents in the Injury & Exposure Register
Injury & Bleeding Management
If a participant bleeds:
- Sparring stops immediately
- First aid is administered using PPE
- Contaminated equipment is cleaned or removed
- The incident is documented and reviewed
Equipment Hygiene
- Shared gear must be disinfected after each use
- Members are encouraged to use personal gloves and wraps
- Mats are sanitised daily and after any exposure
Coach & Staff Responsibilities
- Enforce this policy without exception
- Maintain valid First Aid & CPR certification
- Complete incident reports and verify documentation (waivers, certificates)
Documentation & Records
SouthCity Boxing & Fitness securely maintains:
- Signed Sparring Waivers
- Serology Clearance Certificates (for competitive fighters)
- Injury & Exposure Logs
- First Aid Reports
All records are retained for a minimum of 5 years.
Non-Compliance
Any member or coach failing to comply with this policy may face:
- Suspension from sparring
- Termination of membership
- Report to governing authorities (if applicable)
Policy Review
This policy is reviewed annually or following:
- A serious injury
- Legislative changes
- Updated guidance from sports or health authorities
Contact Us
For questions or concerns, contact us at [email protected]