Workplace Exercise Programs – Safety Concerns

Make safety a key concern when planning physical activity in your workplace. an accident or injury won’t “sell” the program and might end up costing the company. This section will help you take the necessary steps to avoid an accident or injury.

Points to Consider

Using Licensed Professionals

Hire specialistly qualified instructors to lead fitness courses (whether on or offsite) or to run workplace lunch and learn sessions.  It’s also a good idea to ask the instructor for references.

When you hire instructors, make certain that your insurance protects both the instructor and your organization.

Risk Management

Whether we like it or not, liability is an issue these days.

Risk management plans do not have to be complicated or expensive. for  instance, part of the plan might require that employees 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 individuals 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’re waiving their right to sue.

The staff member shouldn’t be asked to sign the waiver just before the activity. the waiver could  be invalid when employees claim that they didn’t 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 employees 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 must be well-lit and in good condition and have handrails and safety features, so that workers aren’t locked out of floors.

• Fitness facilities should have proper flooring, good ventilation, and access to water and an emergency telephone.

Offer medical testing for workers 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 specialist with a physical activity background.