IIHF makes neck guards mandatory after Adam Johnson incident

In response to the tragic incident involving Nottingham Panthers forward Adam Johnson, the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) has taken significant steps to enhance player safety. The IIHF, following recommendations from its medical committee, has mandated the use of neck laceration guards in all of its competitions.

The decision comes after Johnson lost his life when his neck was cut by a skate blade during a league game in Sheffield in October. The gravity of the incident prompted calls for action, including from a British coroner overseeing the investigation into Johnson’s death.

While neck guards were already compulsory in the IIHF’s under-18 and under-20 tournaments, the governing body had not specified a date for their implementation at the senior level, citing supply concerns. The English Ice Hockey Association faced similar challenges and decided to delay the enforcement of its neck guard rule for all on-ice activities until January 1, also due to supply issues.

The IIHF Council has mandated the use of neck guards at all levels of IIHF competitions. pic.twitter.com/I3AIujnpBJ

— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) December 4, 2023

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“The IIHF remains in close contact with its suppliers to ensure they are able to respond to the current high demand,” the Federation said in a statement.

On a broader scale, the National Hockey League (NHL) has engaged in discussions with its players’ union regarding additional safety measures. However, as of now, an agreement has not been reached to make neck laceration guards mandatory in the NHL.

The IIHF’s proactive approach underscores the commitment to prioritizing player safety, and these changes aim to mitigate the risk of severe injuries in the sport.