DA Form 7851: Army Fitness Facility Risk Assessment – DA Form 7851 is the official Fitness Facility Risk Assessment Worksheet used by the U.S. Army. Published on May 1, 2019, this 3-page form helps commanders, safety officers, facility managers, and MWR personnel identify, evaluate, and control hazards in military fitness centers, gyms, and physical training facilities.
It is a key document for maintaining safety standards and supporting soldier readiness across Army installations in the United States.
Purpose of DA Form 7851
The primary purpose of DA Form 7851 is to perform a structured risk assessment specifically designed for Army fitness facilities. The form helps identify potential hazards such as equipment failures, poor ventilation, slippery flooring, electrical issues, overcrowding, and sanitation problems that could lead to injuries.
It ensures compliance with Army regulations including AR 215-1 (Morale, Welfare, and Recreation Programs) and TB MED 531 (Facility Sanitation Controls and Inspections).
Who Should Use DA Form 7851?
DA Form 7851 should be completed by:
- Installation Commanders and Garrison Safety Offices
- Fitness Facility Managers and MWR Staff
- Unit Commanders and Physical Training Leaders
- Army Safety Professionals and Preventive Medicine Personnel
It is especially important for 24-hour and unstaffed fitness facilities that serve Soldiers, Family members, and authorized civilians.
Key Sections of DA Form 7851
The official worksheet includes the following main sections:
- Facility Identification and Assessment Details
- Hazard Identification (equipment, environment, user behavior, emergency systems)
- Risk Assessment Matrix (probability vs. severity)
- Control Measures and Implementation Plans
- Residual Risk Evaluation
- Approval Signatures and Review Schedule
Page 3 of the form contains detailed instructions for proper completion.
How to Download and Fill Out DA Form 7851?
Official Download:
Download DA Form 7851 PDF (Army Publishing Directorate)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Download the latest fillable PDF from the official Army source above.
- Review recent facility inspections (often using DA Form 7850).
- Identify all site-specific hazards and rate their risk level.
- Develop practical control measures.
- Obtain approvals from the safety office and commander.
- Schedule annual reviews or assessments after facility changes.
Why Risk Assessments Are Critical for Army Fitness Facilities?
Regular use of DA Form 7851 helps:
- Prevent injuries from faulty equipment or unsafe conditions
- Maintain regulatory compliance
- Support operational readiness and physical training goals
- Reduce liability and demonstrate due diligence
Safe fitness facilities are essential for maintaining the strength and resilience of U.S. Army personnel.
Related Army Forms and Resources
- DA Form 7850 – Gym / Fitness Facility Inspection Report
- DD Form 2977 – Deliberate Risk Assessment Worksheet
- TB MED 531 – Facility Sanitation Controls and Inspections
- AR 215-1 – Morale, Welfare, and Recreation Programs
For the most current guidance, always refer to the Army Publishing Directorate or your local garrison safety office.
DA Form 7851 is an essential tool for ensuring the safety of Army fitness facilities across the United States. Proper and consistent use of this risk assessment worksheet helps protect Soldiers and their families while supporting mission readiness. Commanders and facility managers should make this form a standard part of their safety program.