Attention all Northshield rapier marshals and rapier fighters!
Per the Deputy Society Rapier Marshal, the following changes in armor inspections with regards to masks and helms will go into effect IMMEDIATELY.
From the DSRM:
"Given the increased awareness of concussion injuries in the zeitgeist and the trickles of reported incidents of concussions and/or concussion-like injuries on both combat fields (and in both heavy rapier and cut & thrust) over the years, the Society Marshal has requested that we improve the quality of armor inspections of head protection for both armored and rapier combat forms.
To address this request, this office is taking two actions:
1. Issuing a policy interpretation of section PROTECTIVE GEAR, 2.B.iv. of the current [Society] Rapier Marshal's Handbook to the effect that when masks and helms are inspected the “show no evidence of impending failure” phrase includes requiring that all head gear must be inspected off of the fighter's head as well as on, and be sufficient to show that the condition of the padding or suspension system meets Society/Kingdom rules. This process will include physical inspection to ensure that padding hasn't decayed and gives resilient push back as designed, that webbing, straps and other protections are present and in working order.
2. Requiring that any head injury reports submitted...include a statement of the condition of the fencing mask or helm that the combatant was wearing and was it in compliance with the Society/Kingdom rules at the time of the injury. Given the proliferation of smart phones with cameras, photos of the headgear are encouraged to be included with reports."
So, what does this mean for you?
For all Fighters:
It means you need to check the inside of your mask or helm to make sure it meets the above standards (as well as make sure your straps, etc. are still in good shape). In addition, I would strongly recommend you have your helm or mask inspected by a marshal at your next possible practice (no one wants to drive to an event, only to have their mask or helm bounced). I would also ask that have your helm or mask off when you initially approach a marshal for inspection, so as to help us all remember as well as save time.
For all Rapier Marshals:
Starting immediately, we need to begin checking the insides of masks and helms before they are on the fighter. Marshals still need to check the fit, condition, and coverage of every mask or helm
while it is on the fighter as well. Since there are no current rules regarding the amount of padding required in a mask or helm, I will leave it to the inspecting marshal's discretion as to whether or not the padding, suspension system, etc. is of sufficient nature to meet the standards for a "snug fit." Further guidelines will be forthcoming once Society develops a standard and passes it along to the kingdoms.
Additionally, we need to make sure we are reporting every injury, including concussion or concussion-like head injuries. And in the case of head injuries, per above, make sure you include a description of the condition of the mask or helm involved, as well as some pictures. As a reminder, ALL rapier injuries must be reported to the Kingdom Rapier Marshal within 24 hours of their occurrence.
I know this is a change to the inspection process as we have come to know it over the years. However, with a little time and practice, it will become second-nature for all of us as well.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact this office.
I remain, in service,
Simon Morcar