The following guidelines are provided by the British Fencing to ensure the safety of all fencers. Along with the BF Safety Guidelines, this section includes updates on equipment and any general travel advice affecting fencers competing abroad. For athletes representing GBR please visit the GBR Policies page for specific guidelines affecting GBR teams.

These standards and indeed all the Guidelines have been drawn up in cognisance of contemporary FIE Rules for Competitions. In the event of these Rules changing and laying down more rigorous safety requirements, BF will if appropriate update these Safety Guidelines, announcing the degree and timing of the application of the revised Rules in the UK.

Every fencer is responsible for ensuring that their personal equipment is in a safe condition (cf. Rules for Competitions t.20.1).

Every fencer also has a duty of care to each of their opponents. For a safe, enjoyable sporting experience every fencer is expected to fence in a way that is safe and avoids hurtful, violent and dangerous actions (cf. also Rules for Competitions t.121.2), taking action if they see any potentially dangerous situation.

Undue aggression or bad temper can cause harm and is not part of our fencing repertoire/culture.

Coaches are expected to instil this duty in all their pupils and clubs should include this in their Codes of Conduct.

Guidelines on safety in fencing for fencers, coaches, referees, clubs and competition organisers

Safety Guidelines 22nd Edition, Board Approved April 2025 

Guidance on mask safety – 17.07.17

Concussion Guidelines – 05.01.2024

Accident and ‘near misses’ reporting form.

Announcement on Tracksuits over Breeches – 25.03.2024

Previous Editions

Safety Guidelines 21st Edition, Board Approved April 2024 

Safety Guidelines 20th Edition, Board Approved March 2023

Go to the Safety Zone.