COVID Waiver Agreement: Everything You Need to Know

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected businesses of all types and sizes, resulting in unprecedented changes to everyday operations. As businesses begin to reopen, one key aspect that companies need to consider is the COVID waiver agreement.

A COVID waiver agreement is a legal document that releases a business from liability in case someone contracts COVID-19 on its premises. The agreement is typically signed by the customer, visitor, or employee, acknowledging that they understand the risks associated with entering the business and will not hold the company responsible for any illness or injury that may arise.

It`s essential to note that a COVID waiver agreement is not a silver bullet. It is not a guarantee that a business will not be held liable if someone contracts COVID-19 on their premises. However, it can help to protect companies from liability claims, especially if the business is taking all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of its customers and employees.

Who Needs a COVID Waiver Agreement?

Any business that welcomes visitors to its premises, such as a restaurant, retail store, gym, or amusement park, should consider implementing a COVID waiver agreement. The agreement would also be useful for companies that require employees to work on-site, such as nursing homes, medical facilities, and manufacturing plants.

Many businesses that offer services that require close contact, such as salons and spas, have already started using COVID waiver agreements to protect themselves from liability claims.

What Should a COVID Waiver Agreement Contain?

A COVID waiver agreement should be simple, concise, and written in plain language that is easy for the signer to understand. It should also provide specific information about the risks of entering the premises during the pandemic and the measures that the company is taking to ensure safety.

Some essential components of a COVID waiver agreement include:

1. Explanation of the Risks: The agreement should explain the risks associated with entering the business and contracting COVID-19. It should also mention that the signer acknowledges these risks.

2. Acknowledgment of Responsibility: The agreement should state that the signer understands that they are responsible for their health and safety and will not hold the business accountable for any illness or injury.

3. Safety Measures: The agreement should mention the measures that the business is taking to ensure the safety of its customers and employees, such as disinfecting regularly, wearing masks, and practicing social distancing.

4. Signature and Date: The agreement should contain a signature and date line, including the signer`s name and contact information.

Final Thoughts

A COVID waiver agreement can be a useful tool for businesses looking to protect themselves from liability claims during the pandemic. However, it`s essential to remember that the waiver is not a guarantee that a business will not be held liable if someone contracts COVID-19 on its premises.

It`s also crucial for businesses to take all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of their customers and employees. A COVID waiver agreement should be used in conjunction with other measures such as regular disinfection, social distancing, and wearing masks.

If you`re considering implementing a COVID waiver agreement in your business, it`s vital to seek legal advice to ensure that your waiver is enforceable and that you`re not leaving anything out.