What happens if the referee is hurt, or a linesperson cannot continue or does not turn up?

Under Rules 5.2 and 5.3 of the Hockey Canada Playing Rules 2026-2028:

• Referee injured or off the ice: a linesperson may stop play if the referee is injured or accidentally leaves the ice and cannot perform their duties. If an official accidentally leaves the ice or is injured in a way that affects their duties while play is in progress, play is stopped.
• Referee cannot continue, two linespersons: one of the linespersons performs the referee's duties. The referee selects that linesperson or, if necessary, the managers or coaches of the two teams do.
• Linesperson cannot act or finish: the referee in charge may appoint another person in their place if necessary.
• Appointed officials do not appear: the managers or coaches agree on temporary referees and linespersons. These may be any Hockey Canada certified officials present, including players, team officials or spectators. If none are present, each team may appoint one team official or player. Temporary officials must wear at least skates, a helmet and a facial protector (visor). They are replaced immediately if the regular officials arrive during the game.
• Two-referee system: where the rules refer to the linespersons, both referees carry out those duties.