The Ontario Racing Commission (ORC) announced that the grace period on the safety vest requirement has been extended to November 15, 2009. At that time, and for a period of 15 days, Judges will begin to issue written warnings to those who are not wearing the safety vests as required. As of December 1, 2009 the full effect of the rule will be applied.
ORC rules require that as of October 1, 2009, anyone jogging, training or warming up a horse at a licensed racetrack is required to wear a safety vest. This requirement does not apply to shuttling a horse back and forth from the paddock to the stabling area.
The ORC has been advised that supply issues at most tack shops across the province have been resolved. Any participant who has not yet acquired a vest is advised to do so now. While different models of safety vests are available to be purchased, the ORC encourages participants to purchase safety vests that comply to the ASTM Standard F2681. While the ORC rule requiring a safety vest does not currently stipulate a standard, it is the intention of the ORC to make the standard a requirement after 2012.
The safety of the participant is the key focus of this initiative. As it has long been a priority of the Board, the ORC will continue to be vigilant on these issues as they affect the participant and the horse.
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