Points to Keep in Mind

Make safety a key concern when creating physical activity in your worksite. An accident or injury will not “sell” the program and may end up costing the organization. This section will help you take the necessary steps to avoid an accident or injury.

Using Certified Professionals

Enlist professionally certified instructors to lead fitness classes (whether on or offsite) or to run worksite lunch and learn meetings. It’s also prudent to ask the instructor for references. When you hire instructors, be sure that your insurance protects both the instructor and your organization.

Risk Management

Whether we like it or not, liability is a problem these days. Risk management plans don’t have to be complicated or pricey. By way of example, part of the plan may require that employees complete fitness appraisals and sign statements accepting the possible risks involved in physical activity. It pays to be prepared. Safety and emergency policies and procedures lower the risk of loss both to individuals and to your organization. Ask employees to sign a waiver when participating in both worksite and offsite activities. For liability reasons, employees must be aware of the risks involved in participating in the activity and be aware that they are waiving their right to sue. The employee must not be asked to sign the waiver just before the activity. The waiver may be invalid if employees claim that they didn’t fully be aware the risks.

Other Safety Tips

Here’s a list of some other safety tips to keep in mind when creating physical activity. Look at the environment where employees are active:

• Sidewalks must be clear of ice and snow, away from falling debris or snow, and have clearly marked curbs and safe crosswalks.
• Stairwells must be well-lit and in great condition and have handrails and safety features, so that employees are not locked out of floors.
• Fitness facilities must have proper flooring, great ventilation, and access to water and an emergency phone.

Offer medical assessment for employees participating in activities:

• PAR-Q
• PAR-MEDX for Pregnancy

Below are some other important safety factors:

• First-aid kit and automated external defibrillator on site.
• Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place and practised.
• Commercial grade fitness equipment (not donated, “hand me down” equipment).
• Documented equipment inspection and maintenance schedule.
• Orientation of equipment and programs done by certified professional with a physical activity background.