Section 8: Safety Considerations
8.1 Warm-Up Requirements
Athletes must be provided with a dedicated warm-up area separate from the competition stage. The warm-up area must have appropriate flooring (not concrete or hard tile) and sufficient space for athletes to prepare safely. A minimum 30-minute warm-up period must be scheduled before the start of competition each day. Athletes are responsible for their own physical preparation, but event organizers must ensure the warm-up environment supports safe practice of dynamic movements.
8.2 Injury Protocols
A qualified medical team must be present on-site throughout practice sessions and competition. The medical team must include personnel experienced in treating musculoskeletal injuries common in breaking, including sprains, fractures, wrist injuries, and head/neck trauma. If an athlete sustains an injury during a battle, the head judge may pause the round to allow medical assessment. An athlete cleared to continue resumes the battle; an athlete unable to continue forfeits the remaining rounds. Any suspected head or spinal injury requires immediate withdrawal and medical clearance under return-to-play concussion protocols before the athlete may compete again.
8.3 Floor Safety
The competition floor must be inspected before each session for moisture, debris, loose panels, or surface damage. Cleaning supplies and a floor maintenance crew must be available to address spills or surface issues immediately. The floor surface must provide adequate friction for head spins and back spins without causing friction burns — athletes may apply rosin or approved grip products to their hands. Liquid substances (water, sweat towels) must not be placed on or near the battle area during active rounds.
8.4 Hydration and Environmental Safety
Athletes must have access to water and hydration stations at all times, including during the competition. For outdoor venues or indoor venues without climate control, the following environmental thresholds apply:
- Temperatures exceeding 35°C (95°F): mandatory cooling breaks every 60 minutes, shade structures required
- Temperatures below 10°C (50°F): extended warm-up periods required, floor surface must be verified for condensation
- Humidity exceeding 80%: floor must be monitored and dried continuously to prevent slipping
- Outdoor events must have contingency plans for rain, wind, and lightning (competition suspended during active lightning within 10 km)
8.5 Athlete Welfare
- Athletes may withdraw from any battle at any time without disciplinary penalty (the battle is forfeited to the opponent)
- Competition schedules must include adequate rest periods between an athlete's battles (minimum 20 minutes between consecutive battles)
- Mental health support resources should be available to athletes throughout the event
- Anti-doping controls are conducted in accordance with WADA regulations; athletes must comply with all testing requirements