COVID-19 Advice & Guidance to the Fencing Community

Last updated 22/07/2022.

Scroll down for current Home Country status, links to resources and dedicated advice pages including those for coaches and clubs.

Current BF Advice:

1. Comply with all current government and venue guidelines
2. Pre-event LFTs no longer practical but maintain personal responsibility to minimise the risk of infecting others
3. Participants should not attend if unwell
4. Face coverings are still recommended in all crowded areas.  Personal protection is much improved by the use of FFP2 or 3 (KN95) level masks.
5. Organisers and participants should avoid creating crowded areas  eg result sheets at competitions.
6. All fencing activity organisers (including clubs and competitions) must continue to have in place risk assessments which include consideration of COVID risks
7. Increasing ventilation where possible is recommended
8. Maintaining good hygiene is recommended, regularly sanitising hands when using shared equipment

Current Status

England

• There are no further restrictions on the numbers of those taking part in sessions.
• Venues and clubs can, put in mitigating actions in place to control enclosed areas as part of their own guidance and risk assessments.

From Jan 27th 2022, face coverings are no longer required by law. However it is suggested that you continue to wear a face covering in crowded and enclosed spaces where you may come into contact with other people you do not normally meet.

Scotland

• All covid rules and restrictions have been lifted in Scotland
• Face coverings are recommended for indoor spaces and public transport

Things you can consider;

• • Maintain good attendance records to help with tracking.
  • Ventilation and hygiene: Clubs where possible to ensure training spaces are well ventilated. Clubs to continue good hygiene measure including following BF’s equipment cleaning protocols and regular hand sanitising.
  • Testing: Keep testing regularly, particularly before attending a club session or competition.

Full guidance can be found here:

Coronavirus in Scotland GOV.SCOT

Scottish Fencing

Wales

• No restrictions in place from 30th May 2022
• No restrictions on numbers that can meet and attend events

Further guidance can be found here:

Coronavirus (COVID-19) | Topic | GOV.WALES

Northern Ireland

15.02.2022 – The removal of COVID restrictions means that there are no legal obligations in relation to participation in sport and physical activity.

For individuals:

1. Good hygiene, including hand sanitising, is strongly recommended and individuals should use the sanitation stations widely available at venues.
2. Individuals attending events should turn up early, are advised to avoid crowded areas, must follow the enhanced precautions put in place by venue operators and follow the instructions given by staff which are in the interest of safety for everyone.

Further guidance can be found here:

Coronavirus in NI

All Nations – Risk assessments must be completed before any activity takes place. Welfare and First Aid provision must be considered.

Welfare Officers are still a requirement for clubs. Coaches must be on the BF Register and club members must hold BF membership.

Fencing competitions (where permitted) must be licensed and follow guidelines.