Harness Racing Victoria (HRV) advises it is taking additional precautions to ensure the health and safety of all staff and participants is protected during the current bushfire crisis in Victoria.
HRV has purchased a portable air quality monitor to immediately obtain accurate measurement of PM (particulate matter) at raceday venues.
Smoke haze has been predicted for Ballarat tomorrow and HRV will use this equipment in addition to the advice of an independent external consultant, who will provide an independent air quality reading, to ensure conditions do not pose a health risk.
“The health and safety of our participants and staff is paramount and in addition to the current air quality checks being conducted on the EPA website, we wanted to ensure accurate readings were available at all our venues in the interest of welfare,” HRV GM Integrity Brent Fisher said.
“The conditions currently being experienced are a rare occurrence, but we want to be proactive and ensure our people and horses are not being put at undue risk.
“If any participant has any questions about conditions or HRV’s approach they’re encouraged to approach the stewards or email integritymatters@hrv.org.au.”
Industry participants will be advised as early as possible by text message, social media and website notification of any significant changes to scheduled race meetings as a result of the bushfire crisis.
Participants should monitor HRV’s web and social media channels (thetrots.com.au, HRV Facebook and Twitter) for the latest information.