The Lagos State Safety Commission (LSC) recently held a workshop to educate gym operators in the state on the importance of safety. The goal was to create a culture of safety that protects the lives of gym users and ensures a safe environment for fitness activities.
The event, which took place at the Landmark Event Centre in Victoria Island, Lagos, was themed “Essentials of Safety in the Fitness Industry.” According to the Director General of the Lagos Safety Commission, Mr. Lanre Mojola, more people are adopting healthy lifestyles through exercise, which has led to the growth of the fitness industry. However, this has also resulted in safety challenges like the risk of injuries, overcrowding, disease transmission, and fire hazards in gyms.
Mr. Mojola, who was represented by the Commission’s Technical Adviser, Mr. Seun Awojobi, stressed that the government is committed to ensuring the safety of all residents. The Commission is working to ensure gym operators understand and apply safety measures to create a safer and healthier fitness industry in Lagos. This includes raising awareness about potential safety risks, promoting global best practices, and fostering a culture of safety awareness among gym operators and users.
The Commission is also developing safety guidelines tailored to the fitness industry and plans to monitor and enforce strict compliance. Mr. Awojobi emphasized that safety must become a core value in gyms, as it is essential for promoting health without risking users’ well-being.
During the workshop, experts shared valuable insights on improving gym safety. Mr. Joel Uzamure, CEO of the Institute of Registered Exercise Professionals in Nigeria, emphasized the importance of hiring certified trainers. He explained that certified trainers are crucial for ensuring safe and effective exercise routines, performing fitness assessments, and responding to emergencies. He also urged gym professionals to stay updated on the latest fitness trends by attending educational events.
Mr. Adeyinka Adebiyi, CEO of Bimsul Consult, talked about identifying hazards and preventing accidents in gyms. He pointed out that proper health and safety measures, along with regular equipment maintenance, can significantly reduce accidents. Other experts, like Mr. Thabo Petersen from i-Fitness Nigeria and Mrs. Natalie February, who joined virtually from South Africa, also discussed the importance of maintaining gym equipment and raising awareness about safety.
The Lagos State Safety Commission continues to work towards creating a safer environment for gym users and operators. By following safety best practices, gyms can help ensure that fitness activities contribute to health without compromising safety.
