Posted By Karl Curtis Has anyone got any practical advice as to what an employer should have in place if they open an unsupervised gym for employees to use in their spare time. My own feeling is that before staff can use the gymey should obtain a note from a doctor etc to confirm that they are healthy enough to take this sort of excercise. Employer should ensure that all equipment is suitably maintained and that clear operating instructions and warnings etc are positioned near the relevant equipment. Advice/instruction should also be in place for persons using free weights, i.e must be 2 people present during these times etc. Anyone who knows of any advice leaflets etc this info would be greatly appreciated Thanks

Posted By Ken Taylor I would suggest a photo-type ID card upon completion of an induction course by a competent person. Add access to first-aid provision and a telephone or alarm for emergency use, a good lock on the door and a drinking water fountain.

Posted By steve williamson Hi Karl, our healthy living adviser tell me the following:- if you have an unsupervised gym, ensure you have a medical pre activity questionnaire/disclaimer drawn up by a solicitor. I wouldn't ask all your employees to get a note from their doctor, as they will probably charge a fee and it is unnecessary unless they have answered yes to some of the medical questions i.e. high blood pressure and history of heart disease etc. If you have quite a large workforce I would advise you to pay a qualified instructor to undertake inductions and programme updates to help you retain your members, otherwise this may result in a drop of membership due to non motivation. If the gym is to be unsupervised then display as many instructions and warnings as possible. Leesa Vain.