WHEN DOES THE HEAT POLICY STOP?
Some aspects of the heat policy are always in effect regardless of the sport. The limitations in By-law 2.67 (Practice Policy for Heat and Humidity) are in effect anytime the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) reading registers in an elevated level (>82F). The limitations on activities that are on the published chart must be followed.
WHAT IS THE WBGT?
The Wet Bulb Globe Temperature reading is a composite temperature used to estimate the effect of air temperature, humidity, and solar radiation on the human body. The reading is expressed in degrees but should not be equated with degrees of air temperature. For example: A WBGT reading of 92 is somewhat comparable to a Heat Index reading of 104-105 degrees.
A Heat index reading merely reflects the combination of heat and humidity as “how hot it feels” on a person who is normally dressed and not involved in strenuous activity. Therefore, the Heat Index has little relevance to a football practice setting and IS NOT an acceptable assessment.
HOW FREQUENTLY SHOULD WBGT READINGS BE TAKEN IN PRACTICE?
The reading should be taken every hour, beginning 30 minutes before the scheduled beginning of practice to determine what levels of activity are permissible – or if the practice will need to be postponed until the WBGT reading gets to an acceptable level. An early practice with temperatures increasing during the practice time may require several readings being taken. A late afternoon or evening practice with temperatures decreasing during the practice time should not require additional readings. The important thing is that the risks to the players are being monitored appropriately. WGBT reading should be taken at least twice during a given practice session or every thirty (30) minutes.
WHAT CONSTITUTES A “CONDITIONING ACTIVITY”?
Conditioning activities involve weight-training, wind sprints, timed runs for distance and other such things. Whether these activities are done before or after a practice, they are considered to be a part of the practice and must be figured into the time restrictions. The heat policy should be in effect for “voluntary conditioning” programs since statistics at both high school and collegiate levels indicate that a large percentage of serious heat illness episodes occur during these activities.
WHAT ARE “WALK-THROUGHS”, WHEN MAY THEY BE HELD?
Walk-throughs are considered a part of practice. A walk-through session may last no longer than one hour. During a walk-through period, players may not wear protective equipment so no contact drills may be held. No conditioning activities may be held during a walk- through period. A walk-through may not be held on a day when there are two practices being held. These sessions are designed to work on offensive and defensive schemes and techniques without being involved in contact work.