Equipment Hygiene Protocols Reminder

Clubs are reminded that not all fencing clothing needs washing between users and other protocols exist to reduce transmission risks.

In light of current government guidelines last updated 9.12.21  we are not currently in a position to relax equipment sharing rules at this point. We would remind clubs that not all fencing clothing needs washing between users.

The advice remains as per the document below, that while ideally members would rent or borrow the same kit throughout a set of classes and wash it themselves, all white kit except gloves may be shared without quarantine or disinfecting, as the risk of transmission this way is very low.

Gloves must not be shared in this way. If fencers do not have their own gloves, gloves should be subject to a 3 day quarantine OR washed with detergent between use.

Masks must be disinfected or quarantined (3 days) between users.

Users should sanitise their hands regularly and particularly before touching frequently touched equipment such as spools or body wires.

The full recommended equipment cleaning protocols and measures to be adopted by fencers and clubs can be found here:

BF Return to Fencing – Equipment Cleaning Protocols v13th July 2021

As a reminder where frequent hand sanitisation measures are implemented the following equipment can be shared without quarantining or disinfecting:

• Jacket/ Breeches/ Plastron – good practice is that kit is clean and dry before use
• Chest protectors
• Lames – good practice is that kit is dry before use
• Body Wires
• Spools, scoring boxes, ground wires:
• Weapons (metal or plastic) – consider using disinfection procedure on handles in same day, multi-user situations.
• Coaching Plastrons /Sleeves

As a reminder, cleaning protocols are only one way to reduce risk as fencing restarts, and further adaptations and guidelines for clubs and members are published here.

If you have any queries regarding this and other announcements please contact us using this form (noting that the office is closed between Christmas and New Year). Many of the queries we receive are answered in our guidance and resources here so we strongly recommend reading this in advance of contacting us.

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