Airsoft Field Standards

Airsoft fields are the heart of the community where players gather to enjoy the sport safely and responsibly. To maintain a welcoming and professional environment, all AFSO-affiliated fields must adhere to the following standards:

1. Safety Protocols and Equipment

  • Eye Protection: All players must wear eye protection that meets ANSI Z87+ standards, providing a full seal around the face to prevent debris or BBs from entering. Eye protection must also include a retention strap to keep the equipment securely in place during gameplay.
  • Face Protection: A hard lower face mask is required for all participants under 18 years of age. Adult players are encouraged to wear additional face protection for optimal safety.
  • Barrel Bags: All players must use barrel bags on their airsoft guns while in the staging area to ensure safe handling of equipment.
  • Velocity and Engagement Requirements: All airsoft guns must meet the following joule energy rating standards to ensure safe gameplay across various field zones and player roles:
    • Rifleman: 1.5 Joules and below. No full auto in buildings, CQB (Close Quarters Battle), or within 10 feet of other players. No minimum engagement distance.
    • DMR (Designated Marksman Rifle): 1.5 - 2 Joules. Semi-auto only, must be equipped with a magnified optic, and requires a minimum engagement distance of 75 feet. Not allowed in CQB areas.
    • Sniper: 2 - 3 Joules. Bolt-action only, must be equipped with a magnified optic, and requires a minimum engagement distance of 100 feet. Not allowed in CQB areas.
  • Pre-Game and Post-Game Briefings: Conduct mandatory briefings before and after each game to review safety protocols, gameplay rules, and emergency procedures.

2. Field Maintenance, Staging Area, and Cleanliness

  • Designated Staging Area: There must be a protected staging area, separated from the playing fields, where players can safely remove their goggles.
    • Rule Board: A rule board with all published rules must be placed in the staging area for players to review prior to gameplay.
    • Barrier Requirements: If fields are adjacent to the staging area, a barrier at least 12 feet tall must be in place. If no barrier exists, there must be a minimum distance of 200 feet between the staging area and the nearest playable field.
  • Daily Field Inspection: The field must be inspected each day before play begins to ensure all structures and obstacles are secure.
  • Cleanliness and Waste Management: The field must be kept clean, with designated waste and recycling bins provided.

3. Trained Staff and Referees

  • Qualified Referees and Staff: Employ trained referees and staff who are prepared to manage safety incidents and consistently enforce rules.
  • Staff Training Areas: Staff must be trained in:
    • Safety Briefings: Conducting effective safety briefings.
    • Game Management: Managing gameplay flow and enforcing rules.
    • Abnormal and Emergency Operations: Managing unexpected situations with structured responses.
  • Ongoing Staff Training: Provide continuous training to keep staff up-to-date on best practices.

4. Incident Reporting Process

  • Incident Documentation: Implement a standardized incident reporting system to document any injuries, safety breaches, or equipment malfunctions.
  • Incident Awareness: Ensure that all staff and players are aware of the procedure for reporting incidents.
  • Incident Review: All incident reports must be reviewed monthly to determine appropriate courses of action.

5. Rental Equipment

Fields must agree to provide the following equipment for rent to ensure that all players have access to necessary gear:

  • Airsoft Guns: Rifles or pistols suitable for gameplay.
  • Protective Gear: Goggles and face masks that meet the required safety standards.
  • Barrel Bags: Barrel bags for airsoft guns.
  • Team Identification Bands: Easily visible team identification bands.