Safety at athletic competitions is a top priority for officials. This pertains to the safety of athletes, coaches, fans, and officials. Providing the safest possible circumstances for competitions involves an awareness of potential problems, inspection of venues, identification of issues, and resolution of those issues. When a safety issue is detected, officials should stop the competition and immediately correct it. If it can’t be immediately corrected, it must be reported to the event head official, Referee, or Meet Management. When an incident or accident occurs, it should be recorded and reported as indicated in the Safety Training presentation.
Upon initial certification and recertification, officials are specifically encouraged to review the Safety Training presentation which has been developed by the NOC. This presentation and other useful documents addressing safety and liability can be found in the Safety and Liability section of this link for the Resources and Best Practices (Track & Field).
Officials' Non-Sanctioned Event Insurance
Provides Certified member officials with general liability insurance while acting in their capacity as officials during non-USATF sanctioned sports events organized by recognized sports organizations, leagues, and associations—to include colleges, elementary & high schools, Boys & Girls Clubs, etc.
USATF Sanctioned Event Insurance
Provides Certified Member Officials with general liability insurance at USATF Sanctioned events
USATF Secondary Accident Insurance
Provides Certified Member Officials with excess accidental medical expense and accidental death and dismemberment insurance at USATF Sanctioned Events.
Frequently Asked Questions