Sand must conform to specific requirements regarding grain size, particle shape, content and colour:
GRAIN SIZE - Not too fine or the sand will blow in the wind and become compacted and hard when wet; not too coarse or it will be difficult to play on in bare feet.
PARTICLE SHAPE - Individual particles must be relatively smooth.
CONTENT - The sand must be clean and free from stones, sharp shell fragments or biological matter.
COLOUR - Not too white to reduce glare. Yellow or orange builder's sand is not suitable because it will stain and becomes heavy and compact when wet.
Players must be free to dive and jump without risk of injury from contacting a hard sub-surface, so FIVB (Fédération Internationale de Volleyball) rules require the sand to be at least 400mm deep across the entire playing area including run-off. 500mm retaining barriers should provide an overall safe depth. The total sand required for a single court will therefore be in region of 200 to 350+ tonnes, depending on density, moisture content and size of run-off. For international tournaments, the sand must be analysed and approved in advance by an organisation appointed by the FIVB. Referees may disallow play if the court does not comply with tournament regulations.
BVUK can provide detailed specifications and recommend sand suppliers.
