Job search
Job Search

Chris Trickey: 2016 briefing from the SAPCA CEO

Much of SAPCA’s work is underpinned by its technical programme, which draws on industry knowledge to develop new guidance and standards. Chris Trickey, SAPCA CEO, gives an overview of the key areas of work for the year ahead

Published in Sports Management 08 Feb 2016 issue 113
Chris Trickey, SAPCA CEO
Chris Trickey, SAPCA CEO

1. Standards
As well as producing its own specific codes of practice, SAPCA is involved in developing and updating a number of British and European Standards.

On this front, work is nearing completion on the review of the standard for indoor sports floors, which should be published later this year. A new specification for synthetic turf used indoors will also be updated, setting new requirements for the performance, quality and durability of shockpads.

2. Research
SAPCA has been working on a three-year project with technical teams at Loughborough University, which will lead to improvements in the drainage of both natural and synthetic sports pitches.
Laboratory models and mathematical modelling were used to predict how pitch systems perform in heavy weather. The findings of the study will improve the future design of drainage systems for pitches.
Another research project is taking place at the Crownpoint Athletics Track in Scotland, exploring the viability of a synthetic turf being able to withstand the impacts of hammer and javelin – allowing its use in the infield areas of an athletics track.

3. Recycling
The issue of recycling synthetic surfaces is of increasing importance and SAPCA has formed a Recycling Working Group to coordinate work in this area. Guidance notes have been provided to SAPCA members on the legal aspects of the handling and disposal of waste and work will continue during 2016 to identify and examine alternative solutions for the reuse and recycling of products.

4. Maintenance
There’s no such thing as a maintenance-free sports surface and SAPCA is keen to ensure that all facility owners and managers should have access to high quality information and advice on upkeep and servicing. Accordingly, SAPCA has recently formed a new Maintenance Working Group to review and update guidance on maintenance.

The existing SAPCA Code of Practice on maintenance will be enhanced, to produce a dedicated new section of the SAPCA website, which will provide a valuable resource covering requirements for different surfaces and the selection of maintenance equipment.

To access technical information provided by SAPCA visit the Technical Guidance section of the website, www.sapca.org.uk

Technical Guidance

In 2016, SAPCA will update its Codes of Practice on:

• Multi-use games areas
• Athletics tracks
• Synthetic turf pitches
• Natural sports turf surfaces
• Sub-bases for outdoor synthetic surfaces
• Outdoor lighting
• Sports facility equipment

Technical Guidance
Technical Guidance
Sign up for FREE ezines

Company profile

Company profile: Legend by Xplor
We help a wide range of public sector leisure operators (including Leisure Trusts, Leisure Management Companies, Local Authorities and Universities), as well as private operators, to streamline complex operations, achieve growth and drive retention.
View full profile >
More company profiles

Featured Supplier

Panatta to showcase innovation at major fitness and bodybuilding events in 2024
Panatta will consolidate its global presence throughout 2024 by attending a host of major industry events around the globe.
View full details >
More featured suppliers

Property & Tenders

Location: Loughton, IG10
Company: Knight Frank
Location: Grantham, Leicestershire
Company: Belvoir Castle
Location: Verwood, Dorset
Company: AVISON YOUNG
Location: Hall Place House, Bexley, DA5 1PQ
Company: London Borough of Bexley
Location: 15 Concessions across the nation's forests
Company: Forestry England
More properties & tenders

Diary dates

11-14 Apr 2024
Exhibition Centre , Cologne, Germany
22-24 Apr 2024
Galgorm Resort, York
10-12 May 2024
China Import & Export Fair Complex, Guangzhou, China
23-24 May 2024
Large Hall of the Chamber of Commerce (Erbprinzenpalais), Wiesbaden, Germany
More diary dates