Introduction
Scouts Canada differentiates two types of scenario when waivers, hold-harmless or reciprocal indemnification agreements (also called waivers) may be required to sign.
- Activities which Scouts Canada groups are “hosting” an event or activity, on another property (e.g. use of a building, school or a third-party contractor on behalf of Scouts Canada). In these cases, Scouts Canada is using the facility to host an activity, and more steps are required; refer to the Contracts Procedure.
- Activities in which Scouts Canada members “visit” an event or activity hosted or owned by a third-party require parental permission (e.g. indoor rock-climbing wall, downhill skiing, ziplines or high-ropes activities). In these cases, Scouts Canada permits parents / legal guardians to sign waivers on behalf of their children; however, Scouters cannot sign on behalf of the entire Section, Group or Council.
In all of these cases, when you consider an activity:
- Make sure it is not a prohibited activity.
- Parents/guardians should be given sufficient information along with the waiver to make an informed decision whether to sign it or not.
- Allow enough time to deal with parental consultation or develop alternative plans.
- Scouters can only sign waivers for their own personal participation and that of their own children.
Our Procedure
When asked to sign a waiver, indemnification or hold-harmless agreement for visiting a location or participating in an adventure:
- Determine if it is Parental/Guardian permission, or if it is asking for it to be signed for the entire group.
- Scouters cannot sign on behalf of the entire Section, Group or Council.
- Inform your Group Commissioner.
- In the case of parental permission (i.e. “visiting” a location for an adventure):
- Scouts Canada permits parents/guardians to sign waivers on behalf of their children to participate in approved Scouting activities.
- Scouters are responsible to ensure that the proposed activity is not prohibited and that all participants have signed waivers and parent consent forms if appropriate.
- Discuss and agree upon the risk management for the proposed adventure.
- Discuss and agree upon the communication plan for parents/guardians.
