NZFHS Health and Safety

Purpose
The New Zealand Friesian Horse society is committed to ensuring the health, safety, and wellbeing of its members, volunteers, visitors, and horses during all society activities, including events, meetings, training days, and any affiliated gatherings around New Zealand.

Scope
This policy applies to all related activities throughout New Zealand, whether held on private property, public grounds, or leased venues.

  1. NZFHS Commitment
  • Provide a safe environment for people and animals.
  • Identify and manage hazards associated with horse handling, riding, and event participation.
  • Communicate clearly about safety expectations and procedures.
  • Abide by all rules and regulations of crisis management for all venues attended.
  1. Roles and Responsibilities

Committee Members

  • Lead by example for the safety of all animals, attendees and observers.
  • Implement and maintain appropriate emergency procedures as per crisis management.

 

.Members and Volunteers

  • Follow all safety instructions and event rules.
  • Wear appropriate safety helmets and footwear for rider protection.
  • Report hazards, unsafe behaviour, and incidents immediately to a committee member.
  • Take reasonable care to ensure their actions do not cause harm to others, horses, or themselves.
  • The Committee reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to request that any horse owner, or any combination of horse and owner, leave the event premises. This action may be taken at any time and for any reason deemed necessary by the Board or designated officials, including but not limited to concerns regarding safety, animal welfare, or conduct inconsistent with the rules or spirit of the event.
  • By participating in this event, all attendees expressly acknowledge and accept this condition. The Committee shall not be held liable for any costs, damages, or losses resulting from such removal
  • No members or participants shall leave the premises during the event unless they stabled and secure.
  1. Risk Management

NZFHS Inc. will:

  • Conduct hazard identification and risk assessments prior to any event or activity as per venue health and safety protocols.
    Limitation of Liability and Insurance Requirement
    The Committee, its members, and affiliates shall not, at any time, be held responsible or liable for any loss, injury, or damage caused by any participant—whether a member or non-member—during any event or related activity. All individuals attending or participating in events do so at their own risk.
  • It is strongly recommended that all participants obtain appropriate personal liability insurance, specifically covering equine-related activities, to protect against potential claims for injury or damage to persons, property, or animals. This includes insurance that provides coverage for horses while attending events, outings, or other organized gatherings.
  • Emergency equipment (first aid kits, fire extinguishers) on site.
  • Ensure horses participating in events are fit for the purpose.
    Any horse and owner combination—whether mare, stallion, or gelding—that is deemed by the Committee or designated officials to be out of the handler’s control may be asked to leave the area immediately. This includes, but is not limited to, situations occurring during Keuring events or any other activities. This measure is in place to ensure the safety of all participants, animals, spectators, and officials. Compliance with this directive is mandatory and non-negotiable.

Common Hazards for Horses and Riders
Participants and attendees should be aware of the following common hazards associated with equine events. These risks should be managed with appropriate caution and preparation:

  • Unpredictable Horse Behavior – Including, but not limited to, kicking, biting, bucking, or bolting. Horses displaying dangerous or uncontrollable behaviour may be asked to leave the premises in the interest of safety.
  • Falls from Horses – Riding and handling horses involve inherent risks, including falls that may result in serious injury.
  • Slips, Trips, and Uneven Ground – Natural and man-made surfaces may present hazards; proper footwear and awareness are advised.
  • Vehicle Movement and Parking Areas – The presence of floats, trucks, and other vehicles requires heightened caution in loading zones and parking areas.
  • Extreme Weather Conditions – Heat, cold, wind, or rain may pose risks to both horses and humans; appropriate planning and gear are recommended.

 

  1. Emergency Preparedness
  • Establish and communicate emergency procedures.
    Provide first responder details before event like local doctor/ farrier / vet.

 

Allegations of Horse Doping – Procedure and Liability
In the event that a member of the society or a member of the public suspects that a horse participating in an event has been administered prohibited substances (“doped”), the following procedure must be observed:

  1. Formal Report – The allegation must be submitted in writing to the Committee or designated event official, including all relevant details and grounds for suspicion.
  2. Veterinary Examination – The individual making the allegation is solely responsible for covering all costs associated with engaging a licensed veterinarian to attend the event, collect blood and/or other biological samples, and conduct any necessary testing to determine whether prohibited substances are present.
  3. Financial Responsibility – Under no circumstances shall the Committee, the Society, or the owner or handler of the accused horse be held liable for any expenses incurred in relation to the testing process. No refund or reimbursement of veterinary or related costs will be provided by the Society, regardless of the outcome.
  4. Cooperation – The owner or handler of the horse in question is expected to cooperate with reasonable requests for testing, provided they are carried out in accordance with this policy and applicable animal welfare regulations.
  5. Confidentiality and Conduct – Allegations must be handled respectfully and confidentially. Frivolous, vexatious, or defamatory claims may result in disciplinary action.

Disciplinary Action in the Event of a Positive Test
Should a horse be found, through appropriate veterinary testing, to have been administered prohibited substances in violation of applicable rules or welfare standards, the matter will be referred to the Society for review. The Society reserves the sole right to determine and implement any disciplinary actions deemed appropriate, which may include, but are not limited to:

  1. Disqualification from the event or series
  2. Suspension or banning of the horse and/or owner from future events
  3. Revocation of titles, awards, or rankings
  4. Notification to relevant breed societies or regulatory authorities
  5. All disciplinary decisions made by the Society shall be final and binding. The Society assumes no responsibility for any loss, costs, or damages incurred as a result of such actions.