Assessment Date: June 27, 2025
Location: Gym 1 – Commercial Gym Environment
1. Activity Description
Use of a suspension training device (e.g., TRX or similar) anchored to a fixed ceiling point for bodyweight exercises leveraging gravity to develop strength, balance, flexibility, and core stability. The device consists of adjustable straps with handles and foot cradles, attached via a carabiner to a ceiling mount (e.g., X-mount) secured to a load-bearing beam or joist. Exercises include rows, push-ups, planks, squats, and lunges.
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., shoulders, back) or joint injuries (e.g., wrists, knees) due to incorrect form, improper strap length, or excessive body angle increasing resistance.
Likelihood: Possible (3)
Severity: Major (3)
Risk Level: High (9)
Control Measures:
- Provide user manual and instructional videos for proper form and strap adjustment.
- Offer training sessions or gym inductions for beginners.
- Ensure staff (in gyms) monitor and correct technique.
- Advise starting with upright positions (low resistance) to learn movements.
Residual Risk Level: Low (4)
Hazard: Equipment Failure
Potential Risk : Strap fraying, buckle slipping, or carabiner breaking, causing the user to fall or lose balance, leading to injuries.
Likelihood: Rare (1)
Severity: Major (4)
Risk Level: Low (4)
Control Measures:
- Use high-quality suspension trainers with durable straps (e.g., nylon) and locking carabiners.
- Inspect straps, buckles, handles, and carabiners for fraying or damage before each use.
- Replace equipment showing signs of wear.
- Store straps in a carry bag to prevent UV or environmental damage.
Residual Risk Level: Low (2)
Hazard: Improper Setup
Potential Risk : Incorrect strap length or anchor height causing loss of balance or ineffective exercises, leading to strains or falls.
Likelihood: Unlikely (2)
Severity: Moderate (3)
Risk Level: Medium (6)
Control Measures:
- Provide clear setup instructions for adjusting strap length and anchor height (7-9 ft recommended).
- Use strap markers for quick, balanced adjustments.
- Test setup by pulling hard or suspending bodyweight before full use.
- Advise dual-anchor setups for advanced exercises (e.g., mimicking rings).
Residual Risk Level: Low (3)
Hazard : Overexertion
Potential Risk : Cardiovascular strain, dizziness, or fainting from high-intensity exercises, especially for beginners or users with inadequate core strength.
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 progression in exercise intensity (e.g., adjust body angle).
- Ensure staff (in gyms) are trained in first aid and CPR.
- Use apps or videos (e.g., TRX App) for guided workouts with rest intervals.
Residual Risk Level: Low (4)
Hazard : Collision with Equipment
Potential Risk : Bumping into dangling straps, handles, or ceiling mount, causing bruises or cuts, especially in confined spaces.
Likelihood: Unlikely (2)
Severity: Minor (2)
Risk Level: Low (4)
Control Measures:
- Ensure 7-9 ft ceiling height and 6 ft x 6 ft clear floor space for exercises.
- Store straps in a mesh bag when not in use to avoid tripping.
- Use wall-mounted storage hooks to keep straps organized.
Residual Risk Level: Low (2)
Hazard : Slipping / Falling
Potential Risk : Slipping during exercises (e.g., suspended lunges) due to sweaty hands, improper footwear, or unstable flooring, causing sprains or falls.
Likelihood: Unlikely (2)
Severity: Moderate (3)
Risk Level: Medium (6)
Control Measures:
- Use non-slip rubber handles and adjustable foot cradles for secure grip.
- Encourage closed-toe athletic footwear and use of chalk for grip.
- Place a non-slip workout mat (e.g., 72″ x 24″) under the training area.
- Provide towels and cleaning stations for sweat management.
Residual Risk Level: Low (3)
Hazard : Instability-Related Injury
Potential Risk : Joint or back injuries due to strap instability, particularly for users with pre-existing conditions or inadequate core strength.
Likelihood: Rare (2)
Severity: Major (3)
Risk Level: Medium (6)
Control Measures:
- Advise users with joint/back issues to consult a physician before use.
- Start with stable, upright exercises (e.g., rows) to build core strength.
- Provide guidance on engaging core during all movements (“All core all the time”).
- Offer modified exercises for beginners via app or trainer.
Residual Risk Level: Low (3)
4. Additional Control Measures
- Emergency Procedures: Ensure first aid kits and emergency contact numbers are accessible. Train gym staff or home users in basic emergency response.
- User Education: Provide access to training apps (e.g., TRX Training Club) or online videos for safe operation and exercise progressions. Include gym inductions covering setup, form, and core engagement.
- Cleaning Protocols: Regular cleaning of handles, foot cradles, and straps to prevent sweat-related slips and bacterial infections, using mild soap and water.
- Age Restrictions: Restrict use to users over 16 unless supervised by a trainer or coach.
- Installation Safety: Recommend professional installation of ceiling mounts for users unfamiliar with structural beams. Verify beam integrity (e.g., no cracks, solid wood) before mounting.
5. Monitoring and Review
- Monitoring: Instructors and users to conduct daily visual inspections of straps, carabiners, and ceiling mount for wear, fraying, or loosening.
- 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).