Safety Standards

AWSA has a strict policy regarding safety, as the health and wellbeing of it’s members is of primary concern. This covers both physical, mental, and emotional safety and wellbeing.

During class, the instructor is responsible for all safety matters, however, all participants have a responsibility to speak up if they see something that might be unsafe.

The following is the minimum standards for engaging in sparring and high intensity drilling:

• Fencing jacket (350N+)
• Leg Covering (350N+ preferred)
• Mask (350N+, 1600N preferred, FIE mask CEN 1 or CEN 2)
• Mask Overlay (if appropriate to the weapon)
• Appropriate Throat Protection
• Gloves appropriate to weapon (eg. CHFG St. George minimum for single handed jian)
• Additional protection appropriate to weapon & fencing conditions (eg. forearms & elbows, chest protector, etc)
• Enclosed shoes
• Groin protector (if applicable)

Recommended equipment for single handed weapon training:

• Fencing Jacket: 800N Thermojacket, 800N SKHF Joseon Jacket (available from SuperiorFencing)
• Mask: Fencing mask
• Gloves: CHFG St. George gloves
• Legs: Fencing bloomers, or HEMA pants

General Provisions:

• Instructors can deny the use of a weapon to a student if they deem it unsafe/unfit for purpose.
• The weapon must be in good repair without surface rust, sharp edges, or cracks/burrs.
• Weapons used for fencing should be fitted with appropriate safety tips.
• Participants with weapons should adhere to local legislation concerning weapon ownership.
• Sharps may not be used under any circumstance for drilling or sparring.
• Sharps may be used for ‘Test Cutting’ under strict controls. With instructor supervision.

Sparring with a jian that is period accurate in dimensions and handling is important to the proper execution of techniques, and understanding the traditional methods of fencing.