10.0 LIGHTNING
•
Umpires may be called upon to
make judgements as to whether
the presence of lightning renders it
unsuitable for play to start, continue
or resume. The test is the same as
that for ground conditions caused by
weather: is it dangerous, ie is there
an actual and foreseeable risk to
the safety of any player or umpire?
•
The same degree of care is needed
in reaching the decision. With
lightning, as with ground conditions,
the umpires are to err on the side
of caution. Before play can start,
continue or resume both umpires
must be satisfied that conditions
are such that it is not dangerous or
unreasonable.
•
The following guidelines should be
used to assist the umpires with their
duties in the event of lightning, in
order to ensure safety:
•
If, at any point during the match,
the threat of lightning, whether
actual or perceived, comes to
the attention of either of the
umpires, the umpires should
follow the protocol outlined
below and agree a course of
action that takes into account all
factors outlined therein.
If on the field, either umpire
decides that the lightning threat
is imminent, he should advise his
colleague and they should both
instruct the players to leave the
field of play immediately in a
safe and orderly manner, with
the umpires, and to relocate to a
secure and safe location.
In order to resume play, both
umpires must agree that
the threat has passed and it
is safe to do so, taking into
consideration all relevant
information.
In making decisions regarding
the suspension, resumption or
start of play due to the threat of
lightning, actual or perceived,
the umpires may refer to any
meteorological data that may
be available.
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92018 ECB Ground Weather and Light.indd 24
15/03/2016 15:58