The South African Rugby Union has announced the introduction of a new Blue Card that will be rolled out across the country in the next few weeks.
SARU says in a statement that the card will signal players who need to be removed from the field due to a concussion or suspected concussion.
The Blue Card will be used in all levels of the game, except elite adult tournaments or matches where World Rugby have approved the use of head injury assessments.
The new card, which serves as a visual aid on correct on-field concussion management, has been implemented successfully at the SA Rugby Youth Weeks over the last two years. This decision was made in consultation with medical experts, key rugby safety stakeholders and SA Rugby's Rugby Department.
The Blue Card Concussion System works on the 'Recognise and Remove' principle and enforces the immediate removal of the player from the match. It is also included in the BokSmart 6 rugby safety programme courses, which commences its rollout in July 2019, and will reach all rugby coaches and referees around the country over a two year period.
All concussions and suspected concussions will be recorded via a standardised referees Blue Card report, while an online reporting tool has also been developed, which is linked to SA Rugby's Footprint system.
Individuals whose email details are recorded through this online system will be sent relevant information and advice pertaining to the management of concussion. The end users will also gain access to a database of medical doctors sufficiently versed in concussion management for rugby union.
-SARU
