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EVERETT <br /> IIMM WASHINGTON <br /> MAINTENANCE OF FENCING AND BACKSTOPS <br /> - Fences provide an enclosure around the ball facility to keep the ball within the boundaries and protect <br /> spectators from being hit by the ball. Because the ball is often in play up to the fence, players frequently <br /> come in contact with the fence, which can create potential injury problems. <br /> INSPECTING BACKSTOPS <br /> - Backstops take considerable punishment from the frequent pounding of oncoming balls. Since they often <br /> provide protection for spectators, they must be checked regularly to make sure they are safe and secure. <br /> - Look for loose ties, stretched fencing, holes in the fencing, loose, splintered or worn out boards, or gaps <br /> in protective netting during scheduled inspections. <br /> WARNING TRACK <br /> - Warning tracks are often installed to warn outfielders that they are nearing the fence. They are an <br /> important safety feature for facilities that accommodate higher skilled league play. They should be <br /> inspected and drug at least twice a week. <br /> TURF MANAGEMENT <br /> A good turf playing field provides reliable running traction, added shock absorption, and a pleasing <br /> appearance. The important turf management practices include irrigation, soil cultivation, mowing, <br /> fertilizing, thatch control, weed control, pest control, overseeding and renovation. <br /> Do not operate equipment when the soil is too wet. This may cause hazardous tire ruts. Make turns <br /> on a firm surface such as the infield area or warning track to reduce the risk of tire ruts. <br /> SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS <br /> BLEACHER MAINTENANCE <br /> - Spectator safety is a concern of the maintenance staff and bleacher maintenance is part of that concern. <br /> - The nuts and bolts on the bleachers must be inspected and tightened regularly as well as the guardrails <br /> and end caps. Check for splintered, worn out seating or walking planks, protrusions and sharp edges that <br /> could be hazardous. Repair or replace as necessary. <br /> FOUL LINE MAINTENANCE <br /> - Foul lines can pose safety problems if not properly maintained. Use a paint that is not harmful to the skin <br /> or eyes. A difference in elevation can form between the bare soil and the elevation of the turf. If this <br /> occurs, regrading along the line can become necessary. <br /> - Foul lines must be straight from the back point of home plate to the outfield foul poles such that a string <br /> line should line up even with the outside edge of first and third base. The chalk line must be placed on the <br /> inside of the string line. Chalking product must stop 18" for the turf lip. <br /> GENERAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS <br /> - Hazardous conditions may require games to be relocated, rescheduled or canceled until the safe use of <br /> the area can be restored. A judgment from a supervisor or lead should be made. Place barriers or <br /> warning signs around the problem area to warn the public of the potential hazard. <br /> B6 <br />