You have a baseball field, and you need it to be secure—follow these tips from the professionals so that your guests and players are safe and happy.
When building or maintaining a baseball field, security is paramount. Not only do you want to keep people off the property who might disrupt or steal from it, but you also need to protect fans and teams during the game. Installing a fence will accomplish all of this, but only if you set it up correctly. The following checklist will help you put up a sturdy, secure commercial chain link fence, keeping your field safe against all threats:
Item 1: Are the Fence Posts Positioned Correctly?
You must place your fence posts well outside of the area where the game will be played. Not only does this prevent players from running into them, but it allows the fence to catch stray balls that could otherwise injure fans.
Item 2: Is the Fencing Attached Securely to the Posts?
Make sure that each post is fixed securely in the ground. With the posts in place, you can attach the fencing itself. Make sure the chains are fully connected and fit tightly to the posts. Unsecured fencing may scratch or cut players who run by, and it could also allow stray balls out of the field.
Item 3: Are the Tension Wires in Place?
A chain link fence must have tension wires at both the top and the bottom to hold the fencing material in place. Make sure that none of the ends of these wires are exposed, whether on the corners or at the top of the fence.
Item 4: Does the Fencing Extend Far Enough?
To provide full protection, the fence must extend around the field all the way to the end of the dugout area. The height of your fence will depend on the location of spectator seating, so speak with a fence professional for all of the details.
Item 5: Is the Gate Secure and Functional?
Make sure that the gate is firmly fixed in the ground and does not require any adjustment. Then check to see if it is easy to open and close, and check the hinge and the latch for signs of corrosion or mechanical problems. Ensuring that the gate is easy to open and close is important not only for convenience, but also for safety. If a player is injured or there is some other emergency, you must have quick access to the field.
Item 6: Have You Eliminated All Other Hazards?
The final step is to check for any other hazards related to the fence and eliminate them as you find them. Common hazards include:
- Concrete fence footings that are exposed above the ground
- Damaged or incomplete links that protrude outward from the fence
- Holes in the fencing
- Hog rings that protrude outward
- Missing dome caps
- A large gap between the bottom of the fence and the ground
United Fence & Construction Co. provides sturdy, durable fencing throughout Arkansas. For more information on protecting your sports facility, baseball field, or business, call 501-222-1503 or visit our website today.
