The Impact of COVID-19 on Staff Working Practices in UK Horseracing

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Veterinary Science
• Sociology

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a halt in horseracing activities in March 2020.
• Limited research exists on the pandemic's effects on the working practices of horseracing staff.
• Understanding these impacts is crucial for workforce welfare and horse care continuity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the working practices of horseracing staff during the initial lockdown phases.
• To assess staff perceptions of workplace changes and job security during the pandemic.
• To identify areas for improved employee support within the racing industry.

Main Methods:

• An online survey was distributed to 287 participants in the horseracing industry.
• Data analysis included Chi-squared tests for independence and binary logistic regression (BLR).
• The study focused on working conditions, effectiveness of pandemic-specific workplace changes, and job security perceptions.

Main Results:

• 53.7% of staff worked during lockdown, with 87.8% finding pandemic-specific workplace changes effective.
• Flat grooms reported workplace changes as less effective compared to other staff groups.
• 67.2% of staff felt positive about job security, though trainers and grooms expressed lower confidence.

Conclusions:

• Most horseracing staff perceived employer-implemented pandemic safety measures positively.
• Health and safety were prioritized for staff working during lockdown.
• Enhanced employee support structures are recommended to bolster job security and workforce stability, ensuring consistent horse care and welfare.