sHADE mATTERS: dESIGNING aTHLETIC fACILITIES FOR hEAT sAFETY AND cOMFORT
BY RON DUBAS, PRESIDENT OF USS
It doesn’t take a NASA Scientist to recognize the awe inspiring power of the sun. It is vital to our existence on earth as our primary supply of energy and plays an important role in our physical and mental health. While the benefits of sunlight are numerous, excessive exposure can also have significant adverse effects.
The power of the sun, specifically the ultraviolet radiation it emits, can create a dangerous environment at outdoor sports venues. These facilities are often constructed primarily of concrete, steel, and artificial turf, materials that absorb solar radiation and convert it to heat. As a result, temperatures on and around athletic surfaces can rise significantly, creating challenging and potentially hazardous conditions for athletes and spectators alike. Anyone who has participated in or attended an outdoor sporting event understands this reality all too well. While shade can lead to measurable cost savings through equipment protection and reduced maintenance, its most important benefit is safeguarding the health and safety of those who use the facility.
Below are some the primary benefits of including shade at outdoor athletic facilities:
(1) Health and Safety Protection
Preventing Heat-Related Illnesses: Intense sun can cause heat exhaustion and heat stroke, with the latter being a leading cause of on-the-field sudden death in athletes. Shade provides a necessary refuge for players, coaches, and officials to cool down.
UV Ray Protection: Prolonged, unprotected sun exposure leads to sunburns, eye damage, and increased long-term risk of skin cancer.
Cooling Surfaces: Shade prevents metal bleachers, slides, and playground equipment from reaching temperatures that can cause burns.
(2) Improved Athletic Performance
Reducing Glare: Sun glare can impair vision during crucial moments in a game. Proper shading helps athletes see better, improving performance.
Increased Endurance: When athletes are not forced to endure direct, intense sun, they can maintain energy levels and perform better for longer.
(3) Spectator Comfort and Engagement
Increased Attendance and Retention: Comfortable, shaded seating encourages fans to stay longer and return, which boosts revenue for concessions and improves the reputation of the facility.
Improved Viewing Experience: Shade eliminates the discomfort of sitting in the sun, making the experience enjoyable for families and older adults.
(4) Equipment and Facility Preservation
Extending Lifespan: Direct sunlight causes materials like plastic, metal, and rubber to fade, warp, and crack. Shade covers protect benches, seating, and specialized equipment from sun damage.
Lower Maintenance Costs: Protecting equipment from the elements reduces the need for frequent repairs or replacements.
(5) Versatility and Usability
All-Weather Protection: Many shade structures provide shelter from light rain, snow, and wind, allowing events to proceed or for people to wait out bad weather.
Increased Functionality: Shaded areas (like dugouts, concession lines, or playgrounds) make the space more inviting for diverse community activities, such as fitness classes or community gatherings.
Unlimited Sports Solutions is a leading supplier of athletic facility equipment and products used to construct safe sports complexes of all sizes. In addition to offering a wide range of shade solutions, USS provides numerous products designed to enhance safety and improve the experience for athletes and spectators alike.