run off area area separating the edge of the track from the final stop barrier 3.13 control measure 3.13.1 physical kart control measure physical measure taken to restrict kart movem
Slow track
Track designed and operated to minimize risk of driving karts up to 70 km/h.
Fast track
Track designed and operated to minimize risk of driving karts up to 110 km/h
General
Before opening to the public, following significant technical changes, or after any incidents, the karting facility operator must conduct a specific risk assessment An example of this procedure can be found in Annex A The safety of karts relies on five essential factors.
— driver briefing and information; and
The karting operation shall be designed and managed such as to minimize risk to the participants Such risk cannot be completely eliminated from the kart sporting environment
The track will feature suitable barriers to reduce the likelihood of participants colliding with walls, pillars, or other obstacles The operation will include several designated areas.
Pits
Requirements
Drivers must enter the pits from public areas only when directed by staff and should promptly join a kart Upon returning to the pits, drivers are required to leave the karts as instructed by staff and exit the pits without delay.
Karts will access the track from the pits and can return to the pits after their ride The pits must have adequate space to accommodate the number of karts in operation.
Access pits to track
Karts must enter the track following the established traffic flow direction A thorough risk assessment of the track will identify potential hazards associated with track entry and outline procedures to mitigate these risks effectively.
Access track to pits
The pits entrance must be strategically placed to allow for an unobstructed exit from the track To prioritize safety for marshals and fellow drivers, it is essential that drivers maintain a speed no greater than walking pace in the pits Implementing speed calming measures in the design of the pits entrance can effectively support these safety objectives.
— construction of a chicane within the pit lane to avoid straight line access;
The entrance area must remain unobstructed to allow drivers to exit the track and access the pits at all times If calming measures involve a pit entrance gate, alternative safe zones should be provided for drivers to reach in case of an emergency.
Parking area
Procedures shall be in place to ensure that unoccupied karts cannot roll directly to the track.
Pit dimensions
The pits must have minimum dimensions that allow for the unobstructed movement of karts to and from the track, as well as easy access for drivers to their karts, without the need to rearrange parked karts.
The assessment of necessary pits dimensions shall take into account the following:
— maximum number of karts accommodated;
— the length/width of the used karts;
— the number of possible parallel formation rows;
Track
Maximum number of karts in use on the track at the same time
The maximum number of karts depends on the length and type of the track This maximum shall be in accordance with Table 1
Table 1 — Maximum number of karts in use on the track at the same time
Slow Track one kart per 20 m of track length (maximum 25 karts per track)
Fast track Kart type B: a) one kart per 20 m of track length (maximum
25 karts per track) or b) one kart per 33 m of track length Kart type C1 and C2: one kart per 33 m of track length
A risk assessment can establish a varying maximum number of karts based on several factors, including driver experience, the nature of the event, track design, and the number of track staff available.
Where the calculation of the maximum does not produce a whole number, the result shall be rounded to the nearest whole number.
Track Width
The track shall have a minimum width of 5 m
NOTE This minimum width is based on the maximum total width of the kart of 1 500 mm according to
Restrictions down to a minimum width of 4 m are permitted Such restrictions shall not exceed 10 % of the total track length and shall be subject to risk assessment for each such restriction
A safety margin is not required between the edge of the track and the final stop barrier
The minimum combined width of the track, including its verges and any run-off areas, must be 8 meters on straight sections, with wider dimensions required in other areas based on factors such as potential speed, track width, degree of turn, surface conditions, weather, camber, topography, sight lines, and the expected number of karts Local conditions may also necessitate additional considerations.
The track must maintain a minimum width of 6 meters, with allowances for reductions to 5 meters, provided that these restrictions do not exceed 20% of the total track length and are evaluated through a risk assessment Key factors for consideration in this assessment include the nature and size of verges and runoff areas, the width between opposing lanes, and the implementation of additional control measures.
A safety margin is required between the edge of the track and the final stop barrier.
Track surfacing
The track surfacing (excluding kerbs) shall have a compact, plane and continuous surface.
Physical control measures
Principle
In addition to final control measures, it may also be appropriate to apply interim control measures designed to reduce speed and impact on the final control measure.
Final control measures, track barriers and protection
To ensure safety, track barriers must be free of sharp edges and protrusions that could hinder their deflecting capabilities The design of the barrier system should minimize the risk of karts lifting, mounting, or crossing over the barriers by ensuring that the facing surfaces are perpendicular to the track's surface.
To enhance safety, especially with floating barrier sections, incorporating a fixture at the bottom of the barrier that can slide beneath the kart surround protection upon contact may help minimize the risk of the barrier lifting and potentially trapping the kart and driver.
Track barriers must be constructed from materials that effectively absorb or deflect impact energy to reduce injury risks Any movement of barriers for impact absorption should not introduce new hazards Individual barrier elements must be securely linked, and barriers should be continuous, starting just above the track surface Gaps in the barriers, necessary for safety or operational reasons, must be minimal and narrow enough to prevent kart entry, while also designed to reduce head-on impact risks and enhance deflection Additionally, any shortcuts should be staggered against the flow direction to deter customer use.
Where barriers divide two lanes, the height of the barrier shall prevent the kart crossing the barrier without restricting of driver sight lines
Barriers must be suitable for the specific track section, necessitating a risk assessment to evaluate the likelihood and consequences of impacts Key factors in this assessment include track speed, width, curvature, surface conditions, weather, camber, topography, sight lines, and the number of karts present Additional considerations may also be relevant based on the specific circumstances.
Barriers shall be appropriate for the potential impact In high-speed areas, interim kart control measures may be necessary to reduce final impact speed
Barriers possess two key characteristics: impact absorption and deflection The selection and combination of these features should be based on the nature and likelihood of potential incidents at specific track locations.
Examples of impact absorption materials are tyres, foam or other materials compressing under pressure Floating barriers that move on impact are also impact absorption barriers
Examples of deflection barriers are belting, stop boards, pods, polypropylene tube or boards
An example of combination barrier is tyres faced with polypropylene boards
Materials used for barrier facing surfaces shall be durable and retain their properties after frequent and repeated impact
The barrier facing surfaces shall be fixed by means of carriage bolts or similar and shall be smooth or flush
Fixing elements shall have a deflecting effect and shall not protrude by more than 8 mm from the surface
Where using integrated barrier and kart surround protection made out of plastic, the barrier and kart elements shall be properly aligned with each other
Structures, such as pillars, protrusions, etc within 1 m of the barrier surface adjoining track shall be padded or protected to a height of at least 1,5 m.
Track management and control
Continuous track monitoring is essential during its usage The required staff for each event will be based on a thorough risk assessment Effective communication between marshals and race directors is crucial, and in cases where visual communication is hindered, alternative methods like radios will be employed.
Spectators' area
General
Spectator areas must be physically separated from the track, pits, garages, and workshops to ensure safety These barriers should also be designed to withstand impacts from karts, minimizing any potential hazards to the audience.
Driver information/briefing
The karting facilities operator must ensure that drivers are well-informed about the meanings of flags and track signals relevant to the event, as detailed in Table 2.
Table 2 — Examples of rack signals a) Red flag/
Driving operation stopped All drivers shall immediately come to a safe stop
Utmost caution required b) Yellow flag/
Caution! Danger! Reduce speed immediately Overtaking strictly prohibited c) Blue flag/
Caution! One or more faster drivers approaching Allow to overtake d) Green flag/
Driver Warning f) Black flag: Driver shall proceed to the pits immediately g) Chequered flag: Driving over Return to the pits Slow down No overtaking
These flags may be replaced or supplemented by the use of other media such as boards
Signal lights shall be positioned so as to be clearly visible in the drivers' line of sight and may need to be padded in accordance with 5.4.2
Where alternatives are used, they shall not conflict with or create confusion by comparison with the above recognized meanings.
Driver APE
Drivers must wear a properly fitting full-face helmet with a visor secured under the chin, meeting the UNECE 22 standards Additionally, other competition-approved helmets are permissible Operators of karting facilities should consider the recommendations provided by the kart manufacturer.
Wearing appropriate overalls and gloves is essential unless a local risk assessment indicates they are unnecessary or pose a hazard Key factors to consider include psychological readiness for hazardous activities, protection against abrasions and debris from the track, safeguarding against fuel spills, preventing entrapment from loose clothing, avoiding burns from hot kart components, managing the risk of overheating that could impair driver performance, and ensuring that the driver is not hindered by their attire.
The drivers shall wear closed, low-heeled footwear Shoelaces should be short and secured Drivers shall not wear scarves or long shawls/kerchiefs.
Light levels in normal operation
During operation, the minimum light levels shall be in accordance with the Table 3:
Table 3 — Light levels in normal operation
Minimum level of light required
Minimum level of light required when using sodium or other technology a b Pit area
The karting facilities operator shall ensure that the karting facilities comply with EN 12193.
Safety lighting
Emergency lighting shall comply with EN 1838.
Air quality
The karting facilities operator should ensure that the karting facilities comply with Directive 2008/50/EC.
Noise reduction
The karting facilities operator should ensure that the karting facilities comply with Directive 2003/10/EC
NOTE Specific characteristic noise emission values of sound sources are listed in VDI 3770 [2].
Fuelling and loading
General
Fuel transportation and storage is subject to national regulation
NOTE See also Directive 2009/30/EC.
Petrol refuelling
Refuelling should ideally occur outdoors with a cool engine before the event begins If outdoor refuelling is not feasible, such as during indoor Endurance or Grand Prix events, specific procedures must be followed Engines must be turned off during refuelling, and if refuelling indoors, fuel should be transferred from containers with an attached spout directly into the fuel tank The use of funnels is discouraged to reduce petrol vapor spillage.
During race meetings requiring refuelling, karts must be refuelled in a designated, well-ventilated area, away from the public and ignition sources Two trained marshals equipped with appropriate firefighting equipment, such as dry powder, foam, or CO2 extinguishers, must oversee the procedure Their training should cover essential topics, including spill management, proper use of decanting containers, minimizing petrol vapour, and ensuring drivers vacate the kart during refuelling Additionally, marshals should be aware of hot parts of the kart and potential ignition sources, prioritizing personal safety Refuelling outside the designated area is strictly prohibited during events.
Surplus fuel must be kept in a fire-resistant container within a secured area protected by a fixed barrier When not in use or stored overnight, petrol containers should be locked in a designated fire-resistant storage facility It is the responsibility of the karting facilities operator to ensure adherence to current best practices for fuel storage and safety.
LPG refuelling
Before installing a bulk LPG storage tank, suppliers must conduct a comprehensive site survey to confirm suitability The tank should be located at least 3 meters away from any buildings, ensuring sufficient access for bulk delivery tankers Additionally, the LPG supplier provides complete training on the operation and use of the tank.
More information is available from local bulk LPG suppliers
Gas or natural gas, respectively
If liquefied petroleum gas cylinders are used, these shall be stored so as to be protected from shock or impact Fenders shall be provided
Valves shall be protected by means of protective collars
The applicable legal provisions including the relevant technical rules shall be complied with.
Track rules
Each kart facility must display clear and easily readable track rules in a publicly accessible location, ensuring visibility for all These rules should outline essential conduct guidelines that emphasize the drivers' personal responsibility.
— instructions and signals given by the track personnel shall be obeyed unconditionally;
— drivers shall not drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs;
— driving against the rules is prohibited and may result in a driver ban;
— attention shall be drawn to driver responsibility for their own and others safety;
— attention shall be drawn to the physical demands of karting and medical consequences.
Briefing of drivers
Before driving, all drivers must be informed about several important safety aspects: karting may not be suitable for individuals with certain physical or medical conditions; understanding kart controls and practicing safe driving is essential; awareness of the inherent risks of motorsport and any medical restrictions is crucial; adherence to track rules and driving directions is mandatory; drivers should be familiar with communication signals such as flags, lights, and signs; in the event of an incident, drivers must remain in their karts and await marshal instructions; proper use of APE is required; maintaining non-contact behavior during sessions is important; prohibited items, such as scarves and long hair outside of APE, must be avoided; drivers should be aware of risks like hot surfaces; special track features and weather conditions should be considered; and the extraordinary physical and mental demands of karting must be acknowledged.
Karting facilities operators need to be aware of any particular factors that need to be addressed with the particular customer, e.g for children, drivers with reduced abilities, language issues
Karting facility operators must assess drivers' abilities based on age, size, weight, and medical restrictions, and provide necessary training in accordance with EN 16230-1:2013+A1:2014, Table 6.
Table 4 — Type of kart – Minimum age / Training (T) and / or evaluation (E)
Minimum age years6 7 years 8 years 9 years 10 years 11 years 12 years 13 years 14 years 15 years Older
If the kart is used outside the parameters of Table 4, a specific risk assessment shall be carried out by the track operator
Drivers under 14 years old are prohibited from driving on the same track as adults, unless all participants are from the same family or group, and a risk assessment confirms that it is safe to do so.
Karting for 6 and 7 years old
Effective management of karting for cadets aged 6 or 7 requires specific procedures, especially for first-time drivers Prior to driving outside a designated training area, essential training must cover the operation of the steering wheel, brake, and throttle, along with basic track procedures Briefings should be concise to prevent overwhelming the child, who must demonstrate understanding of controls in a safe, confined area with energy-absorbing barriers Initial flag communication training should focus on just two flags, with more introduced as the child gains experience A strict zero-tolerance policy is enforced; if a child cannot meet basic driving requirements, they will not progress until they demonstrate competence The child's safety is the top priority, and any pressure to increase speed or compete is to be ignored Competitive driving is prohibited until proficiency is confirmed, allowing only time trials as a form of competition Additionally, staff supervising this age group must receive specialized training, documented in marshal training records.
Signage and markings
Markings
If not already clearly defined by barriers, the track should be clearly marked by a single unbroken white line to define the edge of usable track surface.
Signage
“Motorsport can be dangerous” signs shall be displayed at the entrance of the circuit and in all relevant spectator areas
Areas to which the public do not have access shall have “Prohibited Area” signs displayed
Signage that clarifies the meanings of flags, lights, and signboards for driver communication should be prominently displayed in areas where drivers congregate before and during events, ensuring they can easily see and read the information.
A detailed plan of the track and its surroundings must be prominently displayed near the driver access to the pits This plan should include the track layout, pit area, locations of marshal posts, fire extinguishers, fire exits, and first aid stations Additionally, any warning flags and signs not explained elsewhere should be incorporated into this plan.
All entrances/access points to the track, pits and workshop shall display signs stating “No Unauthorised Entry”
The entry/access from the track to the pits shall display an arrow and a sign "Pit Entry"
“No Smoking” signs shall be displayed
5.15.2.3 National health, safety and fire regulations
National health, safety and fire regulations signage shall be displayed as required
New staff must undergo training by the track operator on the operation of the kart facility and the specific hazards related to their roles, including accident and fault response measures This induction training must be completed before a marshal can work unsupervised at the kart facilities All training sessions, including induction and follow-up training, should be documented in a log and signed by an authorized individual, with periodic reinforcement of training at appropriate intervals.
Track staff must receive comprehensive training covering essential areas such as public safety responsibilities, personal safety measures, key points for driver briefings, and kart safety inspections in accordance with the manufacturer's manual Additionally, staff should be educated on specific safety precautions for children, fire safety procedures and equipment, as well as handling refuelling and spillage issues Proper manual handling techniques for karts and fuel containers are crucial, along with ensuring that drivers maintain a safe seating position to easily reach the pedals Understanding safety zones on the circuit, first aid protocols, accident reporting procedures, and major incident response plans are also vital components of the training program.
Visibility of the track signals and marshals
The practical assessment of drivers' ability to observe track signals and marshals, as outlined in sections 5.4 and 5.6.2, can be conducted through either a qualified driver navigating a kart around the track for evaluation or through measurement techniques.
Assessment of the route
Assessment of the route in accordance with the requirements given in 5.1 is performed by driving along the route
Before starting operations and on a regular basis, it is essential to conduct thorough inspections of the track and surface, ensuring repairs are made as needed Additionally, the integrity of barrier systems must be checked and repaired if necessary Routine maintenance and testing of all safety equipment should follow the manufacturer's instructions, along with the maintenance of karts A daily visual inspection and testing of karts is crucial, as well as inspecting appropriate protective equipment before use Finally, it is important to document the results of inspections and any remedial actions taken.
General
Further regulations regarding occupational health and safety remain unaffected by this European Standard.
Compatibility warnings
It is the responsibility of the karting facilities operator to ensure compatibility of kart, kart speed, circuit design and barrier system
It is the responsibility of karting facilities operator to ensure that karts of different model (including all- around protection and absorption system) are compatible
Karting facility operators must adhere to regulations regarding the disposal of used tyres and oil while also considering the environmental impact of their operations It is essential to maintain safety without excessive energy consumption, ensuring that lighting does not contribute to light pollution Additionally, the use of toxic cleaning materials should be minimized, and any residues must be disposed of safely to protect the ecosystem.
Example of risk assessment procedure
The risk assessment for the karting facility focuses on identifying potential hazards that could harm individuals It involves evaluating the severity and likelihood of these risks, establishing necessary safety precautions, and reviewing the measures already implemented to ensure safety, taking action if required.
A comprehensive risk assessment involves several essential steps: first, identify the hazards; next, determine who may be harmed and the potential impact; then, assess the associated risks Following this, take appropriate actions to eliminate or reduce risks and protect those at risk It is crucial to prepare and distribute clear procedures and instructions, followed by training staff on these protocols Finally, record the findings and regularly review the assessment to ensure ongoing safety and compliance.
The risk assessment has to be dated and signed by the karting facilities operator
General safety instructions about the karting track layout and operating procedures conditions of use (track, buildings, personnel, karts) are given in Figure A.1
A template for a risk assessment record and an example for a risk assessment record are shown in Table A.1 and Table A.2
5 a chicane on entrance to pits area to slow approaching karts
6 protection to separate different lanes
7 marshal post to be protected
8 trees, poles (e.g lamp) other solid obstacles (requiring barrier protection)
9 walls, building boundaries (requiring barrier protection)
10 grand stands (requiring barrier protection)
Figure A.1 — Concerns of risks related to track requirements
The risk assessment record, dated on the RASheet, outlines the evaluation of hazards associated with specific activities It categorizes outcomes based on severity and probability, calculating the risk rating using the formula: Severity × Probability = Risk Rating The severity levels range from negligible to multi-fatal, while probability levels vary from very rare to almost certain Appropriate controls are implemented to mitigate risks, and the residual risk assessment is documented The assessment is prepared by an individual whose name is printed, along with their signature, ensuring accountability in the risk management process.
The BS EN 16230-2:2016 standard includes a risk assessment record template, specifically in Table A.2, which outlines the necessary components for evaluating risks associated with entering and leaving car parks This record should include the activity location, date, and a detailed analysis of hazards, such as the risk of being struck by a moving vehicle or a vehicle going out of control Each hazard is assessed by calculating the risk rating through the formula of severity multiplied by probability, while also documenting the appropriate controls in place and the residual risk associated with each hazard.
To ensure safety, all drivers must comply with statutory speed limits and the highway code Clear identification of car park spaces and entrance/exit directions is essential, and drivers should be vigilant of pedestrians while reversing In congested car parks, reducing the number of vehicles or finding additional parking spaces is recommended to minimize vehicle damage For company cars, permission from the Director of Safety is required if driving or work periods exceed 12 hours Risk assessments categorize severity and probability, with acceptable risk levels contingent on adherence to control measures.
Title of standard: TC/SC/WG number:
Version of the environmental checklist: Date of last modification of the environmental checklist:
Environme ntal Issue Stages of the life cycle
Use Maintenance andUse repair Use of additional products Inputs
Noise, vibration, radiation, heatOther relevant aspects
Risk to the environ- ment from accidents or uninten- ded use
A- deviation: National deviation due to regulations, the alteration of which is for the time being outside the competence of the CEN/CENELEC member
This European Standard is not subject to any EC Directive In the applicable CEN/CENELEC countries, the A-deviations will remain in effect in place of the European Standard provisions until they are eliminated.
The French Sports Code, specifically articles R331-18 to R331-45, was officially published in the Journal of the French Republic on July 25, 2007, following the resolution of French decree N° 2006-554 dated May 16, 2006.
Article R331-19 states that sports federations, as outlined in article L.131-16, are responsible for enacting the technical rules for the sports events specified in article R.331-18 In other areas, the technical and safety regulations are established through a joint decree by the home secretary and the minister responsible for sports.
All circuits hosting competitions, trials, training, or demonstrations must obtain prior approval as outlined in Article R331-35 The security regulations for these activities are specified in Article R.331-19 A joint ministerial decree, established by the home secretary and the sports minister, sets the requirements and conditions for requesting this approval.
In France, the standard's requirements must be enhanced by the Technical and Safety Rules (Règles Techniques de Sécurité, RTS) established by the French Federation of Automobile Sport (Fédération Française du Sport Automobile, FFSA).
Art 5.2 – Pits / See Title II, Appendix A of RTS
Art 5.3 – Track/ See Title II, Appendix A, Appendix B and Appendix C of RTS
Art 5.4 – Physical control measures/ See Title I and I-B of RTS
Art 5.5 - Track Management and control/ See Title I and I-B of RTS
Art 5.6 – Spectator's area / See Title II, Appendix A, Appendix B and Appendix of RTS
Art 6 – Track Staff Training/ See Art Title I and I-B of RTS
Art 7 – Testing/ See Art Title I and I-B of RTS
The French Sports code, and particularly articles L212-1 and next, were published in the official Journal of the French Republic The Article L212-1 relating that:
Only individuals who are qualified to teach, supervise, or coach physical or sports activities, whether full-time or part-time, and who comply with the relevant regulations, including article L 212-2, are permitted to do so for remuneration These individuals must possess the necessary degrees or professional certifications.
1° Guarantying the skills of the holder, when it comes to the security of those who are playing and the third parties in a specific sports activity.
2° And registered in the national reparatory of professional certifications under the conditions foreseen in the article L 335-6 II of the education code
Individuals pursuing a degree, professional title, or certificate may engage in paid practice related to their studies, as outlined in the specified regulations for obtaining their qualifications.
II.-The mentioned degree of the I may be an admitted foreign degree or an equivalency
The layout outlined in Section I is applicable from the moment of registration for degrees, professional titles, or qualifying certificates that meet the criteria specified in Sections I and II Additionally, individuals who have obtained the right to practice any of the functions mentioned in Section I prior to the registration period defined in Section III, and who comply with current legislation, will retain this right to practice for remuneration.
V.-The State Council determines with a by-law the conditions of the present article It particularly determines the terms under which the list of paragraph III is established.”
Moreover, the prerogative of the instructor of karting are fixed by the ordonnance of august 22nd, 2003, was published in the official Journal of the French Republic of September 5th, 2003
Consequently, the requirements of the standard will have to be supplemented, in France, by the dispositions of this part of the code:
Art 5.13 Briefing of drivers/ See also Art Title I and I-B of RTS
Art 5.14 – Karting for 6 and 7 years old/ See also Art Title I and I-B of RTS
[1] EN 589, Automotive fuels – LPG - Requirements and test methods
[2] VDI 3770, Characteristic noise emission values of sound sources - Facilities for recreational and sporting activities
Directive 2009/30/EC of the European Parliament and Council, enacted on April 23, 2009, amends Directive 98/70/EC to establish specifications for petrol, diesel, and gas-oil It introduces a framework for monitoring and reducing greenhouse gas emissions Additionally, it modifies Council Directive 1999/32/EC concerning fuel specifications for inland waterway vessels and repeals Directive 93/12/EEC.