Recently, there has been an increase in local and national press comment on the safety of footwear. Some articles have focused on particular styles of studs, bars or blades.

As referees we have to concern ourselves with trying to ensure that playing conditions are safe for everybody involved. Players need to take the greatest responsibility, but referees have to play their part as well.

We do not need to get involved in an argument as to whether blades maybe more of a hazard than studs. Our concern must be to be sure that whatever the players are wearing constitutes no danger to themselves or others.

We therefore offer the following advice:

The Referee’s role is to inspect footwear and jewellery before each and every match.

I have therefore reproduced below an amended version of the directive we have issued and followed in the higher levels of the game in recent years.


Players Equipment - Safety

Match Officials are reminded that Law 4 states: "A player must not use equipment or wear anything which is dangerous to himself or another player including any kind of jewellery."

 - All jewellery, with the exception of a plain wedding ring, must be removed. Wedding rings must be rendered safe by taping to the satisfaction of the Referee. The Referee’s decision is final and players in contravention of this Law must not be allowed to enter the field of play.
 
- Match Officials are also to incorporate a footwear inspection into the pre-match safety check of players’ equipment. This will take place before entry to the field of play immediately prior to the game.

Poorly maintained studs or blades on the sole of the boot can constitute a danger.

The Football Association offers the following guidelines:

"When inspecting footwear, officials are to be alert to the possibility of the edge of the blades or studs developing rough areas on either the plastic or metal used in their construction.

These burrs can become very sharp and have been the cause of lacerations on opponents. If match officials are concerned over the condition of the blades or studs, they should refuse to sanction their use until they have been made safe.

If evidence emerges during the game e.g. torn stockings, lacerations, the referee may wish to follow up the inspection with the player(s) concerned during a stoppage."

Referees are to report to the Competition any instance where the kick-off has been delayed, as a result of the footwear inspection.

John P Baker
Head of Refereeing
The Football Association