Whether you’re just starting out in the dance industry or you run an established studio, it’s important to look out for the wellbeing of your business with a proper liability waiver.
Proper waivers are essential for modern dance studios. A well-written liability waiver can protect your studio from being held financially responsible for any run-of-the-mill injuries that occur. In a nutshell, it states that your students (and their parents) understand there are certain risks that come along with dancing, and that you and your teachers are not responsible for any injuries that come from the studio’s typical activities.
It is important to note that a signed liability waiver does not replace proper safety measures in the studio. For example if a ballet barre was not properly attached to a wall and it fell and hurt someone, your liability waiver wouldn't protect you in that case and you would be responsible for any injury caused to the student.
To ensure your studio is properly protected, it's always best to consult an expert but, in the meantime, here are a couple of great tips plus a sample waiver you can use for your business.
Integrate your waiver with your website and existing software
This is the easiest way to ensure all enrolled families have agreed to your waiver. If your software offers online registration, add your waiver to the final page and ensure clients have to agree to it before proceeding. You could also add your waiver the policies page on your website.
Consider the effects of COVID-19 on your waiver
COVID-19 has increased the demand for liability waivers across a wide range of businesses and organisations, including those who have not previously required them. Even if you did have a waiver in place prior to the pandemic, it’s critical that you regularly update it to encapsulate changing needs.
Basic Waiver Example
By registering, all parents and/or guardians agree to hold harmless from any and all liability [your studio name], its officers, employees and contractors both in their professional capacity and personally for all
injury and illness resulting from or in any way connected with his/her participation in the classes,
activities or special events at the studio.
Remember, all advice offered above is general so to ensure your studio is properly protected, it's always best to consult an expert.
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