Water polo
Water polo is a competitive team water sport. Teams consist of seven active players(6 outfield and 1 goalkeeper) and a maximum of six
substitutes(5 outfield 1 goalkeeper). Each team wears either white or blue caps, while goalies wear red. The most popular ball is “Miska Wave” ball.
Teams are usually structured with one center back, one center forward, two wingers and two drivers. Played out in a pool(30 x 20 or 25 x 20), the
general objective of the game is to score the most points by throwing a ball into the net of the opposing team. A water polo match is divided into 4
quarters of 8 minutes, but usually lasts for 12 minutes as the clock is stopped when the ball is not in play. The match commences as the ball is
thrown into the midline and each team lined up their goal. They must swim and retrieve the ball to have control of the ball first. Each team is only
allowed to hold onto the ball for a maximum of 30 seconds before shooting into the goal, otherwise the opposing team gains possession. Players
are not allowed to touch the bottom of the pool, rather they have to tread(a walking-like movement underwater). The ball can only be held with one
hand, however the goalkeeper is allowed to use both hands. Players throw the ball to a teammate or they can swim while pushing the ball in front of
them. After every goal the ball is passed to the team scored on. Teams must go back to their half in order for the match to resume.If a player has 3
major fouls they will be excluded from the rest of the game. Water polo matches have two referees who are responsible for controlling the game
and awarding fouls. Referees stand on either side of the pool.
RISK ASSESSMENT MANAGEMENT FORM
Potential Hazard
Who is at risk?
Existing Control Measures
(Offense, defense,
crowd, position)
(what is already being done about
it? Equipment, rules, management
strategies?)
Risk
Severity
Risk
Likelihood
Risk
Rating
(5-death)
(5-multiple
times in one
event)
(Combined
number)
Preventative Measures
(what else can be done - who should be
responsible for that to happen?)
Individuals diving into the
shallow end of the pool
Player
Making participants aware
of the hazard in the shallow
end at pools. Adequate
supervision by Coach and
lifeguard on duty.
5
2
7
Signs or warnings should be put
around the area to make it clear to
participants. Life guards and
facility staff should take care of
this.
Jewelry, long nail/hair
Other players,
player
All heavy jewellery is
removed. Water Polo
players’ nails must be kept
shorter than the fingers.
Referees and coaches will
check this before games.
2
3
5
Long hair should be tied back or in
such a way that it won’t get
entangled. The individual player is
responsible for that.
Facial injuries caused by
contact with other
Players
Players wear appropriate
protective gear and remove
2
5
7
Contrary to belief, stray from
goggles as the plastic may break
players(eye contusion,
lacerations,
sharp objects to avoid
lacerations. Players should
be aware of their
surroundings and refrain
from unnecessary bodily
contact.
resulting in damage to the eyes
and surrounding areas.
Concussions
Players
Wear appropriate protective
gear to minimize severity.
4
3
7
If players feel any concussion
symptoms they should notify their
coach. The coach should also pull
out any athlete exhibiting
symptoms.
Hypothermia
players
Pool temperature
regulations are set.
4
3
7
Players and coaches should
recognize symptoms of
hypothermia and provide
necessary attention.
Injuries from ball impact
Players, Judges,
Referees
Ensure players are aware of
rules and correct water polo
practice and ensure
adherence to these make
players aware of hazards.
Adequate supervision by
referee/coach and lifeguard
on duty.
2
4
6
Other than player individuals
watching the game(audience,
referees, judges) should be aware
of their surroundings and the
current direction of the ball.
Eye irritation from
chemicals in
water(chlorine,etc.,)
Player
Players can notify coaches
of any eye sensitivities.
Coaches can also request
pool chemical levels from
the facility. Players are
recommended to use
artificial tears regularly.
2
3
5
Participants should remove eye
contacts if possible as they are
more prone to infection
Sunburn
All parties
involved
Player should wear
appropriate skin protection,
sunscreen
1
5
6
Players should reapply sunscreen
multiple times.