Volunteers are an important part of the ministry, but they are not covered under workers' compensation insurance and must sign the Volunteer Worker Hold Harmless Agreement [Appendix V.A(1) or V.A(2)]. This agreement bars the signer from making a claim against the parish/school/ecclesiastical organization.
However, volunteer workers are covered, on a limited basis, by an accident policy for injuries which occur while doing the volunteer work. This policy will pay up to $2,500 for medical expenses not covered by the volunteer's own accident and health policy. It does not pay for lost wages or permanent disability. Please note the agreement is only valid when the signer is at least eighteen (18) years of age. The agreement needs to be updated/resigned every two years.
Due to the inherent injury and liability exposure, we do not recommend using volunteers for projects that require heavy lifting or working from heights (i.e., ladders, scaffolds, roofing projects). Good judgment should be exercised when deciding whether or not to utilize volunteers. Parishes/schools/ecclesiastical organizations commonly use volunteers because of the projected financial savings. In reality, the use of volunteers may cost more in the long run due to the cost incurred from the significant number of accidents and injuries which can take place. Additionally, significant expenses can be incurred from improperly completed construction or repair work that does not meet local building codes.
Problems utilizing volunteers include:
• Usually not as qualified or experienced as general contractors or service contractors
• Normally do not have the required license necessary for the work to be code legal (i.e., plumbing, electrical, working with asbestos)
• Normally do not have liability coverage to pay for mistakes made or damage caused
• Usually have no warranty on their work
In situations involving extensive plant and equipment repair or renovation, it is extremely important to hire qualified contractors and obtain certificates of insurance from them as part of the agreement or scope of work. This certification ensures that individuals working on buildings are covered under the contractor's insurance and protects you from the risk of loss if an accident occurs as a result of their negligence.
If volunteers are used, it is essential that they be thoroughly trained in the areas necessary to complete the tasks in a safe fashion. Training should include how to safely operate equipment (i.e., lawn mowers, power equipment); what personal protective equipment is appropriate to wear for the job being completed (i.e., steel-toed shoes, safety glasses, etc.); and how to check and maintain equipment in order to ensure proper operation.
Minor volunteers (under the age of eighteen (18) must have parental approval to participate in any volunteer activities. They may not, however, operate power saws or equipment such as a tractor or riding lawnmower. Refer to appendix V.B for the minor volunteer: Waiver and release of claim form to be signed by the parent(s) or guardian(s).
Please remember that volunteers can be a valuable resource when used wisely but can be very costly when they are improperly trained or utilized to perform tasks that may be beyond their capabilities of inherently dangerous. Significant damages can arise both financially and emotionally, including pain and suffering, when a severe injury has occurred.