When is a start information system (false start detection) required?

Under World Athletics TR 15.3, starting blocks must be linked to a World Athletics certified start information system at the top-level World Rankings competitions (paragraphs 1(a)-(c) and 2(a)-(b) of the definition) and for any performance submitted as a world record. At other competitions it is strongly recommended but not required. An automatic recall system may also be used.

When a system is in use (TR 16.6):

• The starter and/or an assigned recaller wears headphones to hear the warning tone when a reaction time is less than 0.100 seconds.
• If the tone sounds after the gun, the race is recalled and the starter immediately checks the reaction times and other information to confirm who, if anyone, was responsible.
• The system's evidence is a resource to help officials decide correctly.

Deaf or hearing-impaired athletes may use start lights; this is not assistance.