Club Safety Policy

Safety Policy

The use of firearms can be hazardous. The attention of all full and probationary members is drawn to the range safety rules that are displayed on all ranges we visit. All members must be aware of and understand these rules, if you are in doubt don’t wait for an accident to happen, please ask.

In addition to the normal hazards associated with the handling and use of firearms, two specific hazards must be brought to your notice: Hearing and Eye Damage.

Noise Induced Hearing Loss is irreversible and often not discovered until irreparable damage has been done. Exposure to the sound of gunfire will affect your hearing and may cause noise induced hearing loss. No person may shoot on the range unless they are wearing some form of suitable hearing protection. This may be in the form of ear plugs or ear defenders. If you do not have such protection the club will be happy to provide you with either. Please remember you cannot shoot unless you are wearing ear protection. The level of noise experienced behind the firing point may be troublesome and for some people uncomfortable. You are advised to continue to wear ear protection when waiting to shoot.

There are occasions when small pieces of projectile bounce back up the range from the backstop. Occasionally accidents do occur and cartridges cases split causing brass fragments and hot gases to be ejected from the firearm. Should this happen, the potential for damage to the eyes is considerable. Eye protection is not normally on ranges but whenever you shoot you are strongly advised to wear some form of eye protection. If you do not have such protection the club will be happy to provide you with safety glasses. If you wear corrective lenses to shoot then suitable protective lenses can be acquired from any optician. If you buy such lenses, or indeed acquire any other form of eye protection, you should ensure that it is marked with the British Standard kitemark and approved to BS2092.