Riding Safely

To be able to get the most out of horse riding you want to be sure that every precaution has been taken to make it as safe and enjoyable as possible. The BHS Safety Department offers help and guidance in all areas of equestrian safety, from hacking out on the roads to setting standards for clothing.  

What are we doing for you?

• Offering an advisory service on health and safety matters in the equine industry.

• Advising and guiding on personal protective equipment for you, and safety equipment for your horse.

• Helping to make you and your horse safer on today’s busy roads.

• Campaigning for the safety of horse and rider on roads at national level and through the training industry for motorists and professional drivers.

• Providing free publications on aspects of Health & Safety and Riding and Road Safety.

• Advising on the purchase and fitting of safety equipment from hats to body protectors and rider footwear.

• Campaigning with other national organisations for safer riding, particularly on the roads.

• Working with Government departments to raise awareness for safer riding for all.

• Monitoring accidents on the roads, attacks on horses by dogs, problems with fireworks and slippery road surfacing, through completion of our online BHS Report Forms.

• Working with the Department for Transport on the official Highway Code in the relation to horses on the highway.

• Working with the Ministry of Defence (MoD) on issues relating to low flying helicopters and fast jets.

• Providing information regarding horse trailers, towing, driver licensing laws and HGVs.

• Fluorescent/reflective clothing (hi-viz). Working with manufacturers and others to promote effective use.


Also information on the 'Safety with Ponies' Scheme especially for children can be found here.

How you can help

Our work relies on your support. We can only campaign on your behalf when we have sufficient information to carry forward our concerns to those in authority. If you experience a problem help us to help you by completing the relevant incident form which can be found in these safety pages. Get your friends to do the same.