Section 8: Safety Considerations
Non-contact ruleset eliminates tackle-football collision risk. Penalty structure aggressively penalizes contact, flag-guarding, and dangerous play to maintain that profile. Mandatory mouthguards at most national-federation championship levels. On-site athletic trainer required at IFAF-sanctioned events; team physician at World Championship + Olympic competition. Concussion protocol mirrors World Rugby / IFAF medical guidelines — removal-for-evaluation + multi-stage return-to-play. AED on-site at all IFAF events. Heat protocols apply to summer-season venues (regular water breaks, heat-stop authority granted to officials).