5th December, 2024
The Lagos State Safety Commission (LSC) has hosted a workshop aimed at sensitising gym operators in the state to the importance of building a safety culture that prioritises the well-being of individuals and protects the fitness space.
The initiative comes as the Lagos State government reiterates its concern for the safety of gym users, operators, and other stakeholders.
Held at the Landmark Event Centre in Victoria Island, Lagos, the workshop was themed “Essentials of Safety in the Fitness Industry.”
The Director-General of the Safety Commission, Mr. Lanre Mojola, emphasised that the growing trend of individuals adopting healthy lifestyles through physical exercise has provided a significant boost to the fitness industry.
However, this surge presents safety challenges for gyms and fitness centres, including risks from improper use of equipment, overcrowding, fire hazards, and the potential spread of diseases.
Represented by Mr. Seun Awojobi, the Commission’s Technical Adviser, Mojola reaffirmed the state’s commitment to the safety of its residents.
He stressed that the commission is focused on ensuring that all gym operators in Lagos understand and implement safety principles to foster a safer, healthier, and more sustainable fitness industry.
“Our objectives include raising awareness about potential safety hazards in the fitness industry, promoting adherence to global best practices and basic safety standards, and instilling a culture of safety consciousness among gym operators and users,” Mojola said.
“Our aim is to strengthen the capacity of operators to identify, manage, and mitigate risks, ensuring that safety becomes the foundation upon which fitness services are delivered.”
He further noted that the Commission is developing safety guidelines and regulations tailored specifically to the fitness industry, with a focus on strict compliance and monitoring to ensure that gyms across the state adhere to these standards.
Several experts took turns engaging the participants on safety practices and preventive measures that can be implemented in their organisations.
In his presentation, Mr. Joel Uzamure, CEO of the Institute of Registered Exercise Professionals in Nigeria, emphasised the importance of hiring certified personnel at gym centres.
He explained that certified trainers are essential for conducting fitness assessments, prescribing exercises based on assessment results, and responding swiftly to emergencies.
Uzamure stressed the evolving nature of the fitness industry, with new research, techniques, and trends emerging regularly, and encouraged industry professionals to stay updated through continued education.
Similarly, Mr. Adeyinka Adebiyi, CEO of Bimsul Consult, led a session on hazard identification and accident prevention in gyms.
He highlighted that with proper health and safety measures, along with regular equipment maintenance, gym accidents can be significantly reduced.
Mr. Thabo Petersen of i-Fitness Nigeria and Mrs. Natalie February, who participated virtually from South Africa, also spoke on the critical importance of equipment maintenance and the need for ongoing education and awareness campaigns to ensure safety in gym centres.
The workshop concluded with a renewed commitment from both the government and fitness industry professionals to work together in creating a safer environment for all gym users and operators in Lagos.
