Safety at Competitions
Starting December 1, 2019, the USEF and USHJA have approved a re-write of Chapter HJ Hunter/Jumper Competitions in the USEF Rulebook. Subchapter HJ-3 Requirements to Obtain Rating includes new definitions for Safety and Welfare (HJ105) minimum requirements. Included are new safety measurements that will increase the level of medical expertise on show grounds, increase communication between competition management and medical personnel, and increase response time to rider injuries.
HJ105 lists an Accident Preparedness plan, which includes a phone line reserved for contacting emergency personnel, posted information about the competition grounds, nearest hospital and equine veterinary center, and mileage to nearest hospital and Level 1 Trauma Center.
Additionally, approved by USEF and USHJA, is HJ113.19 which states, “At premier and/or Jumper Level 5 or higher competitions, at least one of the required qualified medical personnel must be a paramedic”.
HJ105 lists an Accident Preparedness plan, which includes a phone line reserved for contacting emergency personnel, posted information about the competition grounds, nearest hospital and equine veterinary center, and mileage to nearest hospital and Level 1 Trauma Center.
Additionally, approved by USEF and USHJA, is HJ113.19 which states, “At premier and/or Jumper Level 5 or higher competitions, at least one of the required qualified medical personnel must be a paramedic”.