Sled hill attendants tackling patrons on sleds, pushing patrons, and punching patrons are examples of what not to do. One of the main ways to avoid liability associated with sled hill attendants is to train them. At a minimum, the following should be part of the hill attendant's orientation. Before the snow falls, conduct a preseason hill inspection, identify hazards and develop a plan to eliminate the hazard. Documentation of both the preseason inspection and follow-up corrections are critical at this point.
Documentation is needed for two reasons.
First, you want a system to make sure all noted hazards have been addressed. Second, if someone is injured and brings a claim against your agency, you need to be able to prove you have taken steps in an effort to prevent the injury. After the inspection has been completed and the hazards addressed, the sled hill signs need to be installed. If a warming house is provided at the sled hill, it too needs to be inspected inside and out. The final point of preparation for the preseason setup is to assign an individual or a specific department that will conduct the daily sled hill inspections.