What is the primary role of a referee in powerlifting?

The primary role of a referee in powerlifting is to ensure that the rules and regulations are followed during competitions. This responsibility is critical for maintaining the integrity of the sport and providing a fair competitive environment for all athletes. Referees are trained to interpret and enforce the specific guidelines that dictate how each lift should be performed, including proper form and compliance with safety standards.

By closely monitoring the athletes' attempts, referees can determine whether lifts are valid or not based on criteria such as execution, depth of squat, lockout of the bench press, and overall adherence to the established rules. This ensures that all competitors are treated equally and fairly judged based on the same set of standards, which is essential in a competitive setting.

The focus is not on training athletes, scoring them, or assisting with warm-up routines, as these roles fall outside the official duties of a referee. Their primary function is to uphold the sport’s integrity by enforcing the rules during the competition itself.