In the park and recreation field, professionals have become accustomed to dealing with the liability issue. Recently, the legal concept of assuming the risk in an activity or attendance at a facility has assisted with this issue. This has initiated the concept of risk management. A staff training program is just one tool of risk management that can be used. A well established staff training program can achieve this goal of effectiveness and reduce the further impact involved.
Documentation is also a vital part of the training mixture.
The insurance crunch has practically made it a requirement that all staff training sessions and staff certifications be documented. Furthermore, go over thoroughly the correct techniques and wording necessary to complete all accident, incident, rescue and other operational forms. It is important to convey to staff that when there is any doubt that documentation is necessary. It is always better to be safe than sorry, so document. The standard evaluation process, as with any recreation program, should also be implemented in a staff training program.