Assessment Date: June 27, 2025
Location: Studio 1, Gym 1, & Gym2 – Commercial Gym Equipment
1. Activity Description
Use of an indoor cycle for cardiovascular and lower body endurance training, involving pedalling against adjustable resistance.
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 (e.g., quadriceps, hamstrings) or joint injuries (e.g., knee) due to incorrect seat height, posture, or resistance.
Likelihood: Possible (3)
Severity: Moderate (3)
Risk Level: Medium (9)
Control Measures:
- Provide user instructions/signage on proper setup and form.
- Offer introductory sessions for correct bike adjustment.
- Ensure staff monitor and correct user technique.
Residual Risk Level: Low (4)
Hazard: Equipment Failure
Potential Risk : Fingers or clothing caught in moving parts (e.g., pedals, chain, or flywheel).
Likelihood: Rare (1)
Severity: Major (3)
Risk Level: Low (6)
Control Measures:
- Conduct regular maintenance checks (e.g., monthly).
- Inspect pedals, chains, and seats before use.
- Display last maintenance date on bike.
- Remove faulty equipment immediately.
Residual Risk Level: Low (2)
Hazard: Pinching / Crushing
Potential Risk : Fingers or clothing caught in moving parts (e.g., pedals, chain, or flywheel).
Likelihood: Unlikely (2)
Severity: Moderate (3)
Risk Level: Medium (6)
Control Measures:
- Install guards around flywheel and chain.
- Place warning labels on pinch points.
- Advise users to avoid loose clothing and keep hands clear.
Residual Risk Level: Low (3)
Hazard : Slipping / Falling
Potential Risk : Slipping off pedals or falling due to improper dismount, sweat, or loss of balance.
Likelihood: Unlikely (2)
Severity: Minor (2)
Risk Level: Low (4)
Control Measures:
- Use non-slip pedals with straps or clips.
- Encourage appropriate footwear (e.g., closed-toe shoes).
- Provide towels and cleaning stations for sweat management.
- Ensure stable bike base design.
Residual Risk Level: Low (2)
Hazard : Overexertion
Potential Risk : Cardiovascular strain, dizziness, or fainting from excessive intensity, especially for unfit users.
Likelihood: Possible (3)
Severity: Moderate (3)
Risk Level: Medium (9)
Control Measures:
- Display health warnings (e.g., consult a doctor for medical conditions).
- Encourage gradual resistance increases.
- Ensure staff are trained in first aid and CPR.
- Include heart rate monitors on bikes where possible.
Residual Risk Level: Low (4)
Hazard : Collision with Bike
Potential Risk : Bumping into the bike causing bruises or cuts, especially in crowded areas.
Likelihood: Unlikely (2)
Severity: Minor (2)
Risk Level: Low (4)
Control Measures:
- Ensure adequate spacing between bikes.
- Use rounded edges on bike design.
- Maintain clear walkways around equipment.
Residual Risk Level: Low (2)
4. Additional Control Measures
- Emergency Procedures: Ensure first aid kits and emergency contact numbers are accessible. Train staff in emergency response.
- User Education: Provide a gym induction program covering equipment safety. Use posters/videos to reinforce proper bike setup and use.
- Cleaning Protocols: Regular cleaning to prevent sweat-related slips and bacterial infections.
- Age Restrictions: Restrict use to users over 16 unless supervised by a trainer.
5. Monitoring and Review
- Monitoring: Instructors to conduct daily visual inspections and weekly detailed checks of equipment.
- 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).