Kia Tigers conducted a large-scale safety inspection at Gwangju-Kia Champions Field due to concerns over safety at professional baseball stadiums following a fatal incident at Changwon NC Park.
Champions Field opened in 2014 and is celebrating its 12th year this year. Last year, as it marked its 10th anniversary, it underwent a safety inspection in accordance with the Special Act on the Safety and Maintenance of Facilities and received a C grade.
A C grade indicates that there are minor defects in major structural members or extensive defects in auxiliary members, but overall safety of the facility is not compromised. It also means that repairs are needed to prevent deterioration and functional decline of the major structural members or simple reinforcements are needed for the auxiliary members.
An A (excellent) grade indicates no issues and is in optimal condition, a B (good) grade indicates minor defects in auxiliary members and some repairs are needed. There is also a D (poor) grade and an E (defective) grade, which prohibits immediate use.
The team said, "We conduct safety inspections every month during the regular season." They added, "On March 31 and April 1, the team's facility management team, Kia Motors headquarters safety and environment center, and safety officers from the Gwangju plant conducted safety inspections."
In fact, about 60 to 70 personnel collaborated to conduct the safety inspection over the two days. A large crane was mobilized to conduct extensive inspections of the entire structure, including the stadium roof, and it was a busy scene throughout the two days.
Additionally, the team noted, "Gwangju City also conducted separate inspections."
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