Section 8: Safety Considerations
Combat Sambo has substantially higher injury risk than Sport Sambo due to permitted strikes. Mandatory equipment (helmet, gloves, mouthguard, shin guards, groin protector) is non-negotiable. FIAS requires comprehensive on-site medical: ringside physician, EMT, ambulance, AED at all championship-level events. Concussion protocol: SCAT-5 assessment by team physician; mandatory rest period; medical-clearance return-to-competition. Knockouts trigger automatic medical suspension. Pre-competition cardiac + neurological screening. Skin-infection screening before mat use. Age restrictions: typically Junior/Senior/Veteran only (Cadets not generally permitted in Combat Sambo).