Make safety a key concern when creating physical exercise in your workplace. An accident or injury will not “sell” the program and may end up costing the business. This section will assist you in taking the necessary steps to avert an accident or injury.
Points to Consider
Using Certified Professionals
Hire professionally certified instructors to lead fitness classes (whether on or offsite) or to run workplace lunch and learn sessions. 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 business.
Risk Management
Whether we like it or not, liability is an issue nowadays.
Risk management plans do not have to be complex or pricey. For example, part of the plan might require that employees 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 business.
Ask employees to fill out a waiver when participating in both onsite and offsite activities. For liability reasons, employees must know the risks involved in participating in the exercise and know that they are waiving their right to sue.
The employee should not be asked to sign the waiver just before the exercise. The waiver may be invalid if employees say that they didn’t completely know the risks.
Other Safety Tips
Here’s a list of some other safety tips to keep in mind when creating 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 should be well-lit and in great condition and have handrails and safety features, so that employees are not locked out of floors.
• Fitness facilities should have proper flooring, great ventilation, and access to water and an emergency phone.
Offer medical evaluation for employees participating in activities:
• PAR-Q
• PAR-MEDX for Pregnancy
Below are some other significant 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.
