When someone gets hurt in your gym, it’s a situation no one wants to face, but it’s crucial to
handle it correctly to protect your business. Recently, a young member at one of our partner
parkour gyms broke their foot, leading to a concerning interaction between the gym manager and the child’s parent.
When the parent asked, “What compensation does your gym offer for my hurt child?” the manager, in an attempt to be helpful, referenced the gym’s insurance,
suggesting it might cover the incident financially.
This well-intentioned comment raised alarms for the gym owner and highlighted a critical need for better training and protocols.
Understanding the Liability Risks
When a gym manager or staff member says too much or the wrong thing, it can be seen as an admission of liability on behalf of the gym. Even if the intention is to reassure the injured
party and their family, such statements can have serious legal consequences.
Matthew Becker from Gym Lawyers PLLC, a brand partner with Motion Mentors, emphasizes this risk:
“Unfortunately, in a situation like this, if staff members say the wrong thing trying to be nice to a hurt member or parent, that staff member really can admit liability on behalf of the gym.”
The Need for Standard Operating Procedures and Emergency Action Plans
To mitigate these risks, gyms need solid Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and
Emergency Action Plans (EAPs) in place. These protocols guide staff on what to do and say
when an injury occurs, ensuring that responses are both compassionate and legally sound.
Parkour gyms, due to the nature of their activities, must be especially vigilant in implementing these measures.
Examples of Effective SOPs and EAPs
Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
1. Initial Response: Train staff to immediately assist the injured individual, ensuring their
safety and comfort without making any statements about liability or compensation. This
initial response should prioritize the injured person’s well-being.
2. Documentation: Staff should meticulously document the incident, including details
about how the injury occurred, witness statements, and any actions taken by the staff.
Proper documentation is crucial for legal and insurance purposes.
3. Communication Protocol: Establish clear guidelines on who should communicate with
the injured party and their family. A designated manager or owner trained in
handling such situations should manage communication.
4. Incident Reporting: Staff should follow a standardized process for reporting incidents
internally. This includes notifying key personnel and documenting the steps taken during
the response.
Emergency Action Plans (EAPs)
1. Medical Assistance: Have a clear plan for providing or seeking medical assistance,
whether through on-site first aid or by calling emergency services. Parkour gyms should
ensure that staff are trained in basic first aid and that first aid supplies are readily
available.
2. Notification Procedure: Staff should know who to notify within the organization and
how to report the incident promptly. Quick internal communication can help manage the
situation more effectively.
3. Post-Incident Follow-Up: Outline steps for following up with the injured party and their
family, ensuring they feel supported without making any legally compromising
statements. This follow-up should include checking on the injured individual’s recovery
and addressing any concerns they may have.
4. Review and Improvement: After every incident, conduct a review to identify any
weaknesses in the response. Use this review to improve SOPs and EAPs, ensuring
continuous improvement in safety protocols.
The Role of Training in Preventing Liability
Proper training for staff is vital to prevent liability in parkour gyms. Staff should understand the importance of not making admissions of liability and know the correct procedures to follow in the event of an injury. Regular training sessions can help reinforce these protocols and ensure staff are always prepared to handle emergencies appropriately.
What You Can Do
Proper training and well-defined protocols are vital for gym owners to navigate the complexities of injury incidents. These measures protect the business from potential liability and ensure that injured members and their families receive the appropriate care and communication.
Motion Mentors, with the expert guidance of Matthew Becker from Gym Lawyers PLLC, strongly advise all gym owners to implement and regularly review their SOPs and EAPs. By doing so, gyms can provide a safe environment for all members while safeguarding their operations against unnecessary legal risks.
If you need assistance creating or updating your gym’s procedures, please contact Matthew Becker at Gym Lawyers PLLC for professional legal consultation and support.
Key Takeaways for Gym Owners. Let them know Motion Mentors sent you!
1. Never Admit Liability: Train staff to avoid making statements that could be seen as
admissions of liability.
2. Implement SOPs and EAPs: Ensure your gym has clear, detailed procedures for
handling injuries and emergencies.
3. Regular Training: Conduct regular training sessions to keep staff informed about the
correct protocols.
4. Seek Professional Advice: Consult with legal experts like Matthew Becker from Gym
Lawyers PLLC to ensure your procedures are comprehensive and legally sound.
By following these guidelines, parkour gym owners can better protect their businesses and
provide a safer environment for their members.
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