Points to Consider
Hiring Certified Professionals
Enlist professionally certified instructors to lead fitness classes (whether on or offsite) or to run worksite lunch and learn sessions. It’s also smart to ask the instructor for references.
When you hire instructors, make sure that your insurance protects both the instructor and your employer.
Risk Management
Whether we like it or not, liability is an issue these days.
Risk management plans don’t have to be complicated or pricey. For example, part of the plan may require that workers complete fitness appraisals and sign statements accepting the possible risks involved in physical exercise. It pays to be prepared. Safety and emergency policies and procedures lower the risk of loss both to individuals and to your company.
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 exercise and be aware that they are waiving their right to sue.
The employee should not be asked to sign the waiver just before the activity. The waiver may be invalid if staff members say that they didn’t completely understand the risks.
Other Safety Tips
Here’s a list of some other safety tips to keep in mind when planning physical exercise.
Look at the environment where employees are active:
• Sidewalks should be clear of ice and snow, away from falling debris or snow, and have clearly marked curbs and safe crosswalks.
• Stairwells ought to be well-lit and in good condition and have handrails and safety features, so that employees are not locked out of floors.
• Fitness facilities ought to have proper flooring, great ventilation, and access to water and an emergency telephone.
Offer medical screening for staff members 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 exercise background.
