Assumption of Risk/Release of Liability Forms

Miami University sponsors numerous voluntary travel, recreational, cultural, educational and physical activities for members of the University community which are not part of the University’s core educational activities.  For example, the University sponsors international workshops around the world, local trips, numerous non-varsity athletic activities, physical fitness programs, etc. 

Although offering these activities is important to the University, these activities subject the University to increased liability. In order to ensure that participants fully understand and appreciate the risks associated with these activities and to mitigate the potential liability risk to the University, participants in these activities need to sign Assumption of Risk and Release of Liability Forms.

The University does not have students sign these forms for routine educational activities that are part of their course requirements.  In addition, the University does not have employees sign these forms for activities that are in the scope and course of their employment. However, for activities that are voluntary, the University does require releases from students and employees. 

If you are involved with organizing/planning such a voluntary activity, it is important that you have each of your participants execute an appropriate form and that you keep the original form safe for the duration indicated by the University’s record retention program.

If you have any questions regarding whether your particular activity needs to utilize the forms, please feel free to contact us. If your proposed activity involves international travel to a location subject to a U.S. State Department travel restriction or warning, contact us in all circumstances.

Forms

For your reference, some common activities (and forms) are provided below:

• Trip to a non-university location (e.g., workshops, non-employment related conferences)
  Assumption of Risk—Travel Activity (PDF 61KB)
• Physical activity (e.g., non-varsity athletics, outdoor recreational trips, physical fitness programs, etc.)
  Assumption of Risk—Physical Activity (PDF 70KB)
• Travel with a companion
  Assumption of Risk—Travel Companion (PDF 70KB)