Risk Management & Mitigation Flashcards

When developing a risk management plan for a youth sports program, which population-specific factor must be given highest priority?

Answer: The heightened duty of care owed to minors as a vulnerable population

Minors are a legally and ethically vulnerable population, requiring a heightened duty of care including enhanced supervision ratios, child protection policies, and safe sport practices.

Which NRPA-aligned concept refers to the legal obligation of a recreation professional to act when they know or should know a hazard exists?

Answer: Duty to warn

The duty to warn requires recreation professionals to notify participants or patrons of known hazards so they can make informed decisions about participating.

A parks department is evaluating risks for a new adventure ropes course. Which tool would BEST help systematically identify all potential failure points in the equipment and activity design?

Answer: Failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA)

FMEA systematically identifies potential equipment and process failure modes, their effects, and priorities for corrective action, making it ideal for high-risk adventure activities.

Which document should a parks and recreation agency update immediately following any significant change to a facility, program, or staffing level?

Answer: Emergency action plan (EAP)

Emergency action plans must reflect current facility layouts, programs, and staff roles to remain effective; any significant operational change requires an immediate EAP update.

In the context of NRPA risk management, 'respondeat superior' holds which party liable for the negligent acts of employees performed within the scope of their employment?

Answer: The employer (the parks and recreation agency)

Respondeat superior is a legal doctrine that holds employers vicariously liable for negligent acts committed by their employees while acting within the scope of employment.

What risk management practice helps ensure volunteer workers at a parks department receive appropriate safety training comparable to paid staff?

Answer: Including volunteers in the agency's formal risk management and safety training programs

Including volunteers in formal safety training ensures they understand hazards and procedures, reducing risk of incidents and potential agency liability for inadequate supervision.

Which element is MOST critical to include in a written aquatic emergency action plan (EAP) for a public pool?

Answer: Clear roles, communication protocols, and specific response procedures for aquatic emergencies

An effective aquatic EAP must define staff roles, communication chains, and step-by-step response procedures so all personnel can act swiftly and correctly in an emergency.