Wellness Program Incentives

Points to Keep in Mind

Hiring Certified Professionals

Hire professionally certified instructors to lead fitness classes (whether on or offsite) or to run worksite 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 corporation.

Risk Management

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

Risk management plans do not have to be complicated or expensive. 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 decrease the risk of loss both to individuals and to your employer.

Ask employees to sign a waiver when participating in both worksite and offsite activities. For liability reasons, employees must know the risks involved in participating in the activity 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 employees state that they didn’t totally know the risks.

Other Safety Tips

Here’s a list of some other safety tips to keep in mind when organizing physical activity.

Look at the environment where workers 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 good condition and have handrails and safety features, so that staff members are not locked out of floors.
• Fitness facilities must have proper flooring, great ventilation, and access to water and an emergency telephone.

Provide 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 exercise background.