Liability for employee event at an ‘ax throwing’ event/business
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Liability for employee event at an ‘ax throwing’ event/business
Employees are asking to have an employee fun event paid by the employer at one
of the new ‘ax throwing’ businesses. These businesses have people sign waivers,
provide lessons, and some sell alcohol.
I believe this is too risky for an an employer sponsored event, and am seeking
another opinion.
Many thanks,
MW
Asked on September 24, 2019 under Employment Labor Law, Washington
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 4 years ago | Contributor
It is a now-accepted and not-uncommon kind of event--no more legally exceptional than skiing, rafting, horseback riding, rock climbing, or any other moderately risky sporting or social events. Therefore, the employer would not be liable for ax-throwing, etc. injuries any more than it would be liable if it arranged a rock climbing or surf lesson outing for employees. While it may be risker than seems wise or appropriate, it is not so risky or unusual as to impose liability on the employer.
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