Waiver forms can be used for a variety of purposes as a way to protect businesses and individuals from assuming liability risks. COVID-19 is one such particular risk. COVID-19 waiver forms consider the potential dangers associated with this highly contagious and easily transferrable disease. The current global pandemic has led many companies, institutions, and businesses to update their waiver forms to include clauses for COVID-19.
When Do You Need Waiver Forms?
Waiver forms address potential personal injuries, property damage, and various commercial rights. These release forms are typically used by people, companies, businesses, and entities where dangerous activities could occur, as these situations could lead to lawsuits and legal action.
Situations that require waiver forms can range from everything including hiring a contractor for home maintenance to activities like driving ranges to photo/video releases. Any circumstance that leaves an individual open to possible lawsuits and litigation can be lessened with a waiver form.
With the COVID-19 pandemic, many companies, colleges, and public places are having employees, students, or visitors sign printed or electronic COVID-19 waiver forms. Waivers for COVID-19 absolves these institutions of being held liable in the event that someone becomes sick or infects another person with the virus. COVID-19 waivers make it known that individuals who go to these locations are doing so with the knowledge that COVID-19 is in existence and a risk.
What to Include in COVID-19 Waiver Forms
Studies and research agree that COVID-19 is a virus that spreads rapidly and unpredictably. While there are several safety precautions that all members of the general public should take to protect themselves and others, the risk of infection still exists.
Updating waiver forms to include the safety concerns associated with the pandemic is necessary for all establishments. In addition to outlining the precautions your company or business is taking to keep all individuals safe, it is also important to have everyone at your facility or organization sign waiver forms so there is documentation that they consented to participate in related activities at their own risk.
When drafting a COVID-19 waiver, be sure to include:
- A declaration COVID-19 compliance that verifies that the signatory not been infected or exposed to COVID-19 in the past 2 weeks and will take the necessary steps to avoid exposure.
- An affirmation the individual does not currently have any signs or symptoms of the disease.
- Details of the enhanced procedures you are taking limit the spread of the disease.
- A clear statement of the risks associated with the surface transmission of COVID-19.
- A release from holding the company or business liable for any exposure to COVID-19.
Using clear language with easily understandable terms and conditions is crucial when drafting any waiver form. This is especially important for waiver forms that include COVID-19 clauses, as such a signed waiver could protect a company or business against a COVID-19 lawsuit.
Find out more about customizing your COVID-19 waiver forms by reaching out to us at WaiverFile today.