What is concussion protocol in Canadian Football (CFL)?

Section 8: Safety Considerations

Independent spotter: The CFL employs independent medical spotters who can stop play to evaluate any player suspected of having a concussion
Removal requirement: Any player identified with concussion symptoms is immediately removed from the game
Return to play: A player diagnosed with a concussion must pass a graduated return-to-play protocol and receive clearance from an independent neurologist before returning
In-game evaluation: Players removed for concussion evaluation must pass a sideline assessment (SCAT tool) before any potential return

Helmet certification: All helmets must meet CSA or NOCSAE standards and be recertified annually
Face mask requirements: Full face masks required for all positions
Equipment inspection: Officials conduct pre-game equipment checks to ensure all mandatory padding is properly worn

The CFL season extends into late November, when Canadian weather conditions can be extreme:

Cold weather: The Grey Cup has been played in temperatures below -20°C (-4°F). Outdoor stadiums (e.g., Saskatchewan's Mosaic Stadium, Hamilton's Tim Hortons Field, Winnipeg's IG Field) regularly host games in freezing conditions.
Field conditions: Snow removal protocols are in place for all outdoor venues. Fields must be maintained to safe playing standards regardless of weather.
Player safety: Teams are required to provide heated sideline equipment and cold-weather gear. Game officials can delay play for lightning or extreme weather conditions.
Indoor venues: BC Place (Vancouver) has a retractable roof, eliminating weather concerns for Lions home games.

Medical staff: Each team must have certified athletic therapists and a team physician present at all games and practices
Ambulance: Required on-site at all CFL games
Practice limits: The CFL limits full-contact practices during the season to protect player health

Independent spotter: The CFL employs independent medical spotters who can stop play to evaluate any player suspected of having a concussion
Removal requirement: Any player identified with concussion symptoms is immediately removed from the game
Return to play: A player diagnosed with a concussion must pass a graduated return-to-play protocol and receive clearance from an independent neurologist before returning
In-game evaluation: Players removed for concussion evaluation must pass a sideline assessment (SCAT tool) before any potential return

Helmet certification: All helmets must meet CSA or NOCSAE standards and be recertified annually
Face mask requirements: Full face masks required for all positions
Equipment inspection: Officials conduct pre-game equipment checks to ensure all mandatory padding is properly worn

The CFL season extends into late November, when Canadian weather conditions can be extreme:

Cold weather: The Grey Cup has been played in temperatures below -20°C (-4°F). Outdoor stadiums (e.g., Saskatchewan's Mosaic Stadium, Hamilton's Tim Hortons Field, Winnipeg's IG Field) regularly host games in freezing conditions.
Field conditions: Snow removal protocols are in place for all outdoor venues. Fields must be maintained to safe playing standards regardless of weather.
Player safety: Teams are required to provide heated sideline equipment and cold-weather gear. Game officials can delay play for lightning or extreme weather conditions.
Indoor venues: BC Place (Vancouver) has a retractable roof, eliminating weather concerns for Lions home games.

Medical staff: Each team must have certified athletic therapists and a team physician present at all games and practices
Ambulance: Required on-site at all CFL games
Practice limits: The CFL limits full-contact practices during the season to protect player health