People can underestimate the risk that moveable soccer goalposts pose if they aren’t used properly. That’s why the ACCC has launched this initiative during winter 2012.
The days are colder, and many children across Australia want to play soccer—all the time.
Sports pose an injury risk to players and this winter the ACCC is reminding parents, teachers and coaches of the particularrisk posed to kids by moveable, heavy soccer goalposts.
There have been more than 40 deaths (including seven in Australia) and serious injuries worldwide as a result of moveable soccer goals being installed incorrectly or used inappropriately.
One of the biggest dangers, says ACCC Commissioner Sarah Court, is from failing to anchor goalposts firmly. The risk is greater when goalposts weigh over 28 kilograms and can topple over when people swing on them or push them over in other ways.
‘People can underestimate the risks that moveable soccer goalposts pose if they aren’t used properly. That’s why the ACCC, in partnership with Football Federation Australia, has launched this important safety campaign’ Ms Court says.
‘Even outside of games and training sessions, portable goalposts need to be respected at all times.’
The ACCC initiative sets out simple preventative measures that should be implemented to ensure the posts are firmly anchored. It takes 200 kilograms to properly anchor a full‑size portable soccer goalpost.
Even then everyone involved should still exercise caution—adults should check the goalposts are anchored before play starts and ensure people don’t swing on them or play on them in other ways. Store goalposts safely when not in use.
These preventative measures apply for games and practice. Goalposts should be anchored properly even during a quiet kick‑around with a few players.
The ACCC has a YouTube video and a flyer out with full details on safety measures for moveable goalposts.
