Releases and Assumption of Risks

 

Release of liability means that an person is declaring that the University will not be held responsible for any injuries that person sustains while participating in a specific activity.

When a person signs a form assuming the risk of an activity, he is declaring that the potential for injury and personal damage has been explained to him, and that he is proceeding even with the knowledge that the activity is dangerous.

 

When is a Release of Liability and Assumption of Risk for Required?

If your department or program sponsors activities, such as field trips, that involve risks of injury or damage to property, a release of liability should be use. If not, you may be unnecessarily exposing the CSU, the University and yourself to costly claims or lawsuits. You may also be missing an opportunity to inform participants about the risks associated with an activity or event. Although releases are primarily legal tools, they also serve an educational purpose by making participants aware of potential risks. Often that is all that is necessary to avoid preventable accidents and subsequent litigation.

 

When is a Release Form Not Needed?

Releases are also not required to participate in or attend a

  • Class Activity
  • Campus Tour
  • Cultural Performance
  • Athletic Event

Releases are also not required to participate in self-selected academic or club activity. For example, when a faculty member requires a student to visit a museum or attend a performance as a class requirement but gives the student the freedom to decide what museum to visit/performance to attend and when.

 

Filling Out the Release Form

The University has developed the CSUF Waiver of Liability FormPDF File Opens in new window  form to transfer the risks associated with an activity or event to the participant in exchange for allowing participation

Instructions

  1. Print out Release of Liability Waiver: fill in sections for activity, activity dates, activity times, and activity location. Do not alter this document in any way. If document is altered it will be voided and another one will require completion.  
  2. Signature required: participants must review release of liability waiver prior to signing and commencing with campus activity or event. A parent or guardian must sign if the participant is under 18 years of age.
  3. Document Retention: once signed the original document must be stored within the department the activity is related to for a period of at least three (3) years. If the participant is a minor, store for at least three (3) years after the minor turns 18 years of age.

 

For questions contact Risk Management (657) 278-7346 or email risk@fullerton.edu.