Storage – how high is your equipment?

Almost without exception we have noticed gyms storing equipment, particularly medicine balls, above head height.

In some cases, even heavier equipment such as benches and boxes have been seen stored at potentially dangerous heights. This increases the risk of injuries from falling equipment.

Heavy equipment can cause injury outright. Lighter equipment, whilst less likely to cause direct injury, can increase slips, trips and falls from impact and loss of balance in individuals affected.

British Standards and best practice measures in manual handling strongly advise against storage over head height.

High equipment also makes it difficult to ensure inclusion for all, especially seated athletes. Head height is much lower for these athletes, and for children. Does your gym accommodate for this?

Reducing equipment height is such a simple fix to mitigate against a number of problems and make your gym safer.

Have look around your gym and challenge yourself to make equipment more accessible and safer for all. A small change can make a big difference!