Assessment Date: June 27, 2025
Location: Gym 1,2 – Studio 1,2
1. Activity Description
Use of a skipping rope for cardiovascular and coordination exercises, including single jumps, double-unders, and other variations, performed by members, staff, or supervised visitors in a commercial gym setting.
Risk Assessment Matrix
• Likelihood: Rare (1), Unlikely (2), Possible (3), Likely (4), Almost Certain (5)
• Severity: Insignificant (1), Minor (2), Moderate (3), Major (4), Catastrophic (5)
• Risk Level: Low (1-4), Medium (5-9), High (10-15), Extreme (16-25)
3. Hazards, Risks, and Control Measures
Hazard: Improper Use
Potential Risk : Muscle strains, sprains (e.g., ankle, wrist), or joint injuries due to incorrect skipping technique or inappropriate rope length.
Likelihood: Possible (3)
Severity: Major (3)
Risk Level: High (9)
Control Measures:
- Provide instructional signage and videos on proper skipping techniques.
- Offer training sessions with certified trainers to adjust rope length and teach form.
- Recommend beginners start with slower, basic jumps.
Residual Risk Level: Low (4)
Hazard: Tripping / Falling
Potential Risk : Falls due to tripping over the rope, leading to bruises, sprains, or head injuries, especially on hard surfaces..
Likelihood: Possible (3)
Severity: Moderate (3)
Risk Level: Medium (9)
Control Measures:
- Use cushioned or rubberized flooring in skipping areas.
- Ensure minimum 2-meter clearance around users to avoid collisions.
- Encourage appropriate footwear to enhance grip and stability.
- Place cushioned mats in high-traffic skipping areas.
Residual Risk Level: Low (4)
Hazard: Equipment Failure
Potential Risk : Injuries from broken or frayed ropes, such as cuts or loss of control during use.
Likelihood: Rare (1)
Severity: Minor (2)
Risk Level: Low (2)
Control Measures:
- Conduct monthly inspections of ropes for fraying or damage.
- Remove defective ropes from use immediately.
- Use high-quality ropes with secure handles.
- Display last inspection date in the gym.
Residual Risk Level: Low (1)
Hazard : Overexertion
Potential Risk : Cardiovascular strain, dizziness, or fatigue from excessive intensity or prolonged skipping, especially for beginners or those with health conditions.
Likelihood: Possible (3)
Severity: Moderate (3)
Risk Level: Medium (9)
Control Measures:
- Display health warnings to consult a doctor for medical conditions.
- Encourage gradual progression in intensity and rest intervals.
- Train staff to recognize signs of overexertion.
- Ensure first aid availability.
Residual Risk Level: Low (4)
Hazard : Collision with Others
Potential Risk : Collisions with other gym users or equipment due to rope swinging in crowded spaces, causing bruises or minor injuries.
Likelihood: Unlikely (2)
Severity: Minor (2)
Risk Level: Low (4)
Control Measures:
- Designate specific areas for skipping with clear boundaries.
- Ensure minimum 2-meter clearance around each user.
- Train staff to monitor and enforce spacing protocols.
Residual Risk Level: Low (2)
Hazard : Slipping / Falling
Potential Risk : Slipping due to sweat, water spills, or improper footwear, leading to falls while skipping.
Likelihood: Unlikely (2)
Severity: Moderate (3)
Risk Level: Medium (6)
Control Measures:
- Maintain regular cleaning to remove spills.
- Use non-slip mats in skipping areas.
- Encourage use of towels and appropriate footwear.
Residual Risk Level: Low (3)
Hazard : Rope Entanglement
Potential Risk : Entanglement of rope with clothing, hair, or body parts, leading to minor cuts, abrasions, or falls.
Likelihood: Unlikely (2)
Severity: Minor (2)
Risk Level: Low (4)
Control Measures:
- Advise users to avoid loose clothing and tie back long hair.
- Provide ropes with smooth, non-abrasive materials.
- Include warnings about keeping rope clear of body during use.
Residual Risk Level: Low (2)
4. Additional Control Measures
- Emergency Procedures: Ensure first aid kits and emergency contact numbers are accessible. Train staff in basic first aid and emergency response.
- User Education: Provide access to instructional videos or gym induction sessions for safe skipping techniques, including rope length adjustment and pacing.
- Cleaning Protocols: Implement regular cleaning schedules to prevent sweat or spill-related slips and maintain hygiene on rope handles.
- Age Restrictions: Restrict skipping rope use to users over 16 unless supervised by a trainer or guardian.
- Gym Layout: Ensure skipping areas are well-lit, spacious, and free from clutter to minimize collision risks.
5. Monitoring and Review
- Monitoring: Instructors to carry out daily visual inspections of skipping ropes and surrounding areas, with detailed checks monthly for wear or damage.
- Incident Reporting: Maintain a log for all accidents or near-misses to identify recurring issues.
- Review Date: Annual review or after any reported incident (next review: June 27, 2026).