Make safety a key concern when planning physical activity in your worksite. An accident or injury won’t “sell” the wellness program and might end up costing the corporation. This section will help you take the necessary steps to avoid an accident or injury.
Points to Consider
Using Certified Specialists
Hire expertly certified instructors to lead fitness courses (whether on or offsite) or to run worksite lunch and learn sessions. It’s also a good idea to ask the instructor for references.
When you hire instructors, be certain that your insurance protects both the instructor and your corporation.
Risk Management
Regardless of whether we like it or not, liability is an issue these days.
Risk management plans don’t have to be complicated or expensive. for example, part of the plan might require that staff complete fitness appraisals and sign statements accepting the possible risks involved in exercise.
It pays to be prepared. Safety and emergency policies and procedures reduce the risk of loss both to person and to your organization.
Ask employees to sign a waiver when participating in both on-site and offsite activities. for liability reasons, employees must understand the risks involved in participating in the activity and understand that they are waiving their right to sue.
The employee should not be asked to sign the waiver just before the activity. The waiver could be invalid when workers claim that they did not fully understand the risks.
Other Safety Tips
Here is a list of some other safety tips to rememberwhen planning physical activity.
Look at the environment where personnel are active –
• Sidewalks ought to be clear of ice and snow, away from falling debris or snow, and have obviously marked curbs and safe crosswalks.
• Stairwells ought to be well-lit and in good condition and have handrails and safety features, so that staff are not locked out of floors.
• Fitness facilities should’ve proper flooring, good ventilation, and access to water and an emergency telephone.
Give health testing for staff members participating in activities –
• PAR-Q
• PAR-MEDX for Pregnancy
Following 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 health promotion programs done by certified specialist with a exercise background.
