Who has the primary responsibility for safety on a shooting range?

The range officer holds the primary responsibility for safety on a shooting range because this individual is specifically designated to oversee all safety protocols and ensure that they are strictly followed. The range officer is trained to manage the activities occurring on the range, enforce rules, and intervene when necessary to prevent accidents and promote a safe shooting environment. Their role includes issuing commands, monitoring behavior, and ensuring that all shooters understand and adhere to safety regulations.

While all shooters present do share a collective responsibility for maintaining safety, it is the range officer's unique position and authority that make them the primary safety overseer. Similarly, although firearms instructors play an important role in educating and training shooters about safety, their responsibility typically focuses more on instruction than on enforcement of safety at the range. A designated safety monitor may also help in ensuring that safety procedures are followed, but they do not have the same level of authority and responsibility as a range officer. Thus, the range officer's role is critical in maintaining an organized and safe shooting environment.