What Does a Release Form Mean?

In any physical activity involving a private organization, there is always going to be a legally binding release form the participant must sign. The release form not only ensures one's awareness of the dangers of the activity, but it also ensures that the organization is not liable for the participant's injuries.

Activities

• Any organized activity where there is a risk of injury will usually require a release form. This includes organized sports such as soccer and basketball, and also includes alternative sports such as wakeboarding and rock climbing.

Safety

• It is in the best interest of their organization to make sure guests are safe, maintaining a good reputation inside and outside the organization. If the business, company or group hid the fact that people sometimes got injured, that could hurt its standing within the community.

What It Means

• By signing a release form, a participant does not have the right to sue the organization because of injuries. He has accepted the fact that he might get injured and that it is not the organization's fault if he does.

On the Job

• Companies will sometimes have employees sign release forms if work involves physical activity that involves possible risks or injuries.

Signing the Form

• If a minor is the participant in a physical activity, the form usually will require a signature by a parent or guardian. This provides adults in charge the authorization to seek proper medical care for the minor, if necessary.