HEALTH AND SAFETY

Health and Safety at NZPCA

At the New Zealand Pony Clubs Association (NZPCA), we are committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for all our members, volunteers, contractors, and visitors. Our Health and Safety Management Plan (HSMP) outlines this commitment across all Pony Club activities, events, and locations under NZPCA’s control.

As a not-for-profit youth training organisation, NZPCA is dedicated to creating a culture where safety is embedded into everything we do.

Our safety vision is simple: “All riders and personnel will feel safe at Pony Club activities and events.”

This plan aligns with New Zealand’s Health and Safety at Work Act 2015, ISO 45001:2018, and other relevant regulations, ensuring we meet legal obligations while actively working to prevent injuries and promote wellbeing across the Pony Club community.

Update July 2023

Health and Safety Moving to Digital Systems

Work is underway to make NZPCA’s health and safety processes clearer, more consistent and easier for Clubs and Regions to manage.

A new medical fitness and concussion declaration has been developed for event entry forms. Participants confirm that, to the best of their knowledge, both the rider and horse are fit to take part and that the rider is not experiencing concussion symptoms—or has received medical clearance to ride.

The declaration also confirms that the rider will withdraw if either the rider or horse becomes unfit during the activity.

NZPCA has strengthened the process used by National Office to follow up potential concussions and has updated incident-reporting requirements and health and safety guidance.

During 2026/27, work will focus on:

  • Rolling out digital Risk Management Plans.
  • Digitising Crisis Management Plans.
  • Updating concussion-management processes.
  • Developing equestrian sport-specific first aid training.
  • Reviewing NZPCA health and safety documents and policies.

Clubs and Regions can access reported incidents through the NZPCA App, helping committees monitor trends and respond to identified risks.

Health and Safety Presentation

Health and Safety Requirements 

Health and safety is everyone’s responsibility. This document outlines the key requirements, expectations, and practical steps for Clubs, Branches, Areas, coaches, officials, volunteers, riders, and families to help provide safe Pony Club activities.

Please read and follow these requirements when planning, organising, or participating in Pony Club events, rallies, training, and activities.

Other Accident Report Forms

Body Protector Standards

The NZPCA PC Area Forum asked the Health and Safety Committee to review recommended safety standards for body protectors.

There are safety standards for body protectors in England and the USA. BETA EN13158 2009 Level 3 (or newer)or ASTM F1937.


Click here for videos on how to fit helmets and body protectors correctly.