ASA/USA SOFTBALL General Maintenance and Condition of the Field Minimum Safety Standards

ASA/USA SOFTBALL GENERAL MAINTENANCE AND CONDITION OF THE FIELD MINIMUM SAFETY STANDARDS

The dimensions of the field should conform with the specifications in the Official ASA Guide & Playing Rules set forth by the Amateur Softball Association.
The entire playing area should be free of any holes, depressions, raised sprinkler heads and other hazards.
Clear infield of stones, pieces of glass, foreign objects and debris.
Position backstop to be sure it is the proper distance from home plate. Ensure that screening is secure with no sharp protruding edges.
Be sure all fences are in good repair and free of protruding hazards or sharp edges.
Inspect stands/bleachers for structural soundness and safety.
Be sure warning tracks are properly situated and meet ASA recommendations.
Make sure the spectator areas are a safe distance from the field of play and are properly screened. Pay special attention to screening for spectator areas behind first base and third base, to protect against foul balls and overthrows.
Light stanchions, fence posts and trees that are near the field of play should be properly cushioned or protected and always be declared as "out of play" areas. All "out of play" areas should, ideally, be cushioned or fenced off or, at the minimum, marked by paint or chalk lines.
Dugout areas should be properly positioned, fenced and set back from the field of play.
Pay careful attention to the installation and maintenance of home plate and the pitcher's rubber. Be careful of protruding edges or corners that are raised above ground level.
If the field is used for other sports, inspect for fixtures or equipment that may have been left, such as little league base pegs.
Require that officiating be done exclusively by properly trained umpires who are currently registered with ASA.

LET'S ALL DO OUR PART TO MAKE SOFTBALL A SAFER GAME!