Keeping Golf Courses Safe from Accidents

Even if it seems that golf is a costly sport or hobby, almost 30 million people in the country name it as their favorite sport. With the large number of rounds played in the country, the industry of golf reportedly earned $76 billion in 2005.
A number of golf courses have also been put up due to its popularity. However, despite the entertainment the golfers and the sport’s audience experience in time of game, accidents still occur. Golf course accidents, while it may sound absurd to those who think that the sport is safe, is just as equally damaging to its victim as other kinds of sports.
There are four aspects in the golf course that may result to an injury-inducing accident.
Premises
Premises indicate the whole property, both on and off the golf course. Golf balls shouldn’t exit the premises of the course, especially since most golf shots are 15 percent off line and modern equipment can make them cover longer distance.
Make sure that golf cart paths are appropriately designed, constructed and maintained, and that proper warning signs are put up. Pedestrian paths shouldn’t have any hazards as well.
Operations
Maintenance procedures are required to minimize the risk of accidents in a golf course. If there are constructions going-on in the area, make sure that any open trenches or cave-ins are marked or protected. Mowing, fertilization, and irrigation should be done by employees with safety training. Every employee who is doing his tasks should also wear the right protective equipment. Environmental contamination may also be prevented through waste management and recycling.


Vehicles
Golf carts and utility vehicles should be driven with care. Both driver and passenger should be cautious as if they are driving along a public highway with their own car. The only employees allowed to drive the vehicles are those who are trained. Golf cars should also be checked for any problems before and after using it. Those that were found defective should be repaired and remain unused for the meantime.
Natural Causes
Even if the management of a golf course aims to give their customers a worry-free time, environment and weather can also cause golf course accidents. Preparing for an emergency due to natural causes is the best way to avoid any disaster. Be sure that there is a written emergency response guideline for employees so they will know their duties in the event of a natural disaster.
Such disasters may occur in the form of a fire, the sudden weakening of a golfer, or a sudden animal or pest attack. In any form of disaster, the employees of the golf course should know what to do.