VOLUNTEER AGREEMENT,

RELEASE AND WAIVER OF LIABILITY

CLAY COUNTY HABITAT FOR HUMANITY

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY!

THIS IS A LEGAL DOCUMENT THAT AFFECTS YOUR LEGAL RIGHTS!

This Release and Waiver of Liability (the “Release”) is executed on this day of by the “Volunteer”, in favor of Clay County Habitat for Humanity, Habitat for Humanity International, Inc. and any other Habitat for Humanity affiliated organization, and their respective affiliates, directors, officers, trustees, employees, sponsors, donors, volunteers and agents (collectively, the “Released Parties”).

I, the Volunteer, desire to work as a volunteer for one or more of the Released Parties without compensation and engage in the activities related to being a volunteer. I understand that my activities may include but are not limited to the following: working at Habitat for Humanity offices and worksites; working in or for Habitat for Humanity ReStore operations; loading and unloading materials; traveling to and from work sites, towns, cities or countries; consuming food available or provided; living in housing provided for volunteers; assisting in disaster relief areas; constructing, repairing, and rehabilitating residential buildings; other construction-related activities; and other in-person and/or online volunteer activities ("Activities").

I, the Volunteer, understand that my Activities may include work that may be hazardous to me, including, but not limited to, exposure to lead, asbestos and mold, which may cause or worsen certain illnesses, especially if I do not wear protective equipment, am exposed for extended periods of time, or have a pre-existing immune system deficiency.

I also understand there is some inherent risk in consuming local foods and living in local accommodations in the city(ies) or country(ies) visited. I further understand I may be traveling to and from locations where there is a risk of terrorism, war, insurrection, criminal activities, instability, inclement weather or other circumstances that could threaten my health or safety. I also understand that it is the policy of the Released Parties not to pay ransom or make any other payments to secure the release of hostages.

I, the Volunteer, hereby freely, voluntarily and without duress execute this Release under the following terms:

Release and Waiver. I, the Volunteer, acknowledge and understand that participation in the Activities may involve certain risks, including, but not limited to, personal injury(ies), bodily injury, illness, permanent disability, property damage, loss and/or death (“Risks”). These Risks include, but are not limited to, exposure to and/or infection with viruses and/or bacterial infection even in ideal conditions, and despite any and all reasonable efforts made to mitigate such Risks.

I, the Volunteer, further confirm that prior to engaging in the Activities, I may be required to complete a health screening questionnaire provided by one or more of the Released Parties. I agree that I will answer all questions on the questionnaire truthfully. I agree to not participate in any Activities if, at such time I am unwell I further agree to follow all safety precautions outlined by any Released Party while volunteering.

In consideration of and in order to be allowed to participate in the Activities, I do hereby release and forever discharge and hold harmless the Released Parties and their successors and assigns from any and all liability, claims, demands, costs and damages of any kind, whether arising from tort, contract or otherwise, which I or my heirs, assigns, next of kin or legal representatives may have or which may hereinafter accrue, arise from, or are in any way related to my Activities with any of the Released Parties, including but not limited to Risks, whether caused wholly or in part by the simple negligence, fault or other misconduct of any of the Released Parties or of other volunteers, other than their intentional or grossly negligent conduct. 

I understand and acknowledge that by signing this Release I knowingly assume the Risks associated with the Activities. I also understand that the Released Parties do not assume any responsibility for or obligation to provide financial assistance or other assistance, including but not limited to medical, health or disability insurance in the event of injury, illness, death or property damage

I understand and acknowledge that children under the age of 16 are not allowed on Habitat for Humanity worksites while construction is in progress. While minors between the ages of 16 and 18 may be allowed to participate in some types of build site activities, solely as outlined by the Released Parties, I understand that using power tools, excavation, demolition, working on rooftops and similar activities are not permitted for anyone under the age of 18. I agree it is my responsibility to communicate these requirements to any of my minor children who will attend and/or participate in the Activities.

Consent to Transportation and Medical Treatment. I consent to the use of first aid treatment and the use of generic and over-the-counter medications and treatments as directed by manufacturer labels, whether administered by the Released Parties or first aid personnel. In an emergency, I understand the Released Parties may try to contact the individual listed below as an emergency contact. If an emergency contact cannot be reached promptly, I hereby authorize the Released Parties to act as an agent for me to consent to any examination, testing, x-rays, medical, dental or surgical treatment for me as advised by a physician, dentist or other health care provider. This includes, but is not limited to, my assessment, evaluation, medical care and treatment, anesthesia, hospitalization, or other health care treatment or procedure as advised by a physician, dentist or other health care provider. I also authorize the Released Parties to arrange for transportation of me as deemed necessary and appropriate in their discretion. I, the Volunteer, do hereby release, forever discharge and hold harmless the Released Parties from any liability, claim, demand, and action whatsoever brought by me or on my behalf which arises or may hereafter arise on account of any transportation, first aid, assessment, care, treatment, response or service rendered in connection with my Activities with any of the Released Parties.

If the Volunteer is less than 18 years of age, the parent(s) having legal custody and/or the legal guardian(s) of the Volunteer also hereby release, forever discharge and hold harmless the Released Parties from any liability, claim, demand and action whatsoever brought by such volunteer or on his/her behalf which arises or may hereafter arise on account of the decision by any representative or agent of the Released Parties to exercise the power to transport, administer first aid, and consent to assessment, examination, x-rays, medical, dental, surgical or other such health care treatment as set forth in the Parental Authorization for Treatment of, and Travel With, a Minor Child.

Insurance. I understand that, except as otherwise agreed to by the Released Parties in writing, the Released Parties are under no obligation to provide, carry or maintain health, medical, travel, disability, defense costs, or other insurance coverage for any Volunteer. Each Volunteer is expected and encouraged to obtain his or her own health, medical, travel, disability or other insurance coverage.

I understand that I am and remain responsible for payment of such hospital, physician, ambulance, dental, medical or other services obtained for me or my child. I agree that the Released Parties do not assume any responsibility for the payment of such fees or expenses which may be incurred. If I have health insurance, I understand my personal health insurance is my primary coverage.

Confidentiality. I agree that in the course of my participation in the Activities, I may have access to personal and/or health care information of other persons. I agree to maintain the confidentiality of such information, to use such information only as necessary to do my job as a volunteer, and to comply with Habitat for applicable policies regarding such information.

Photographic/Recording Release. I hereby grant and convey unto the Released Parties all right, title and interest in any and all photographs and video/audio/electronic recordings of me, including as to my name, image and voice, made by or on behalf of any of the Released Parties during my Activities with the Released Parties, including, but not limited to, the right to use such materials for any purpose, including fundraising, and to any royalties, proceeds or other benefits derived from them. I understand that I will not have any ownership interest in or to such photographs, images and/or recordings, I have not been provided or promised any compensation to me, and I hereby waive any rights, privileges or claims based on any right of publicity, privacy, ownership or any other rights arising, relating to or resulting from the photographs, images and/or recordings. I understand and agree that this paragraph also applies to my minor child(ren) who are volunteering.

Other. I expressly agree that this Release is intended to be as broad and inclusive as permitted by state law. I further agree that in the event any clause or provision of this Release is held invalid by any court of competent jurisdiction, the invalidity of such clause or provision shall not otherwise affect the remaining clauses or provisions of this Release, which shall continue to be enforceable. Further, a waiver of a right under this Release by a Released Party does not prevent the exercise of any other right.

I have carefully considered my decision, the benefits and risks involved, and hereby give my informed consent to participate in all volunteer Activities. I have read and understand this Release and Waiver of Liability, I acknowledge that any questions of mine have been answered, and I voluntarily agree to the above provisions. It is my intent to bind my heirs, next of kin, assigns and legal representative.

WORK CREW SAFETY GUIDELINES

It is the policy of Habitat that individuals under the age of 16 are not allowed on a Habitat worksite while there is construction in progress. It is further the policy of Habitat that anyone using power tools, working on the roof or on ladders higher than 6 Feet off the ground, must be at least 18.

General Safety:

1. Everyone is responsible for their own safety. Be aware of your surroundings.
2. Speak up. Report unsafe practices or situations to site crew leaders.
3. Don’t lift beyond your strength. Get a partner. Remember to bend your knees. Lift with your back straight.
4. Drink plenty of water, Know where the drinking water is located. Use plenty of sunscreen even on cloudy days.
5. Remove nails from lumber as soon as practical.
6. Do not lean lumber or materials against a wall. It could fall and hurt someone.
7. A clean job site is a safe jobsite. Please help pick up trash and debris.
8. Watch for trip hazards. Stack all building materials neatly to reduce tripping hazards. Remove unnecessary materials for the immediate job site area.
9. If you are uncertain how to do a task or use a tool, ask a crew leader.
10. Report all accidents or injuries immediately to a crew leader.
11. Watch out for wall framing bracing to avoid head collisions.
12. No one may volunteer on the construction site while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Worker Safety Equipment:

1. Proper clothing is essential to safety. Wear clothes that are appropriate for the work and weather conditions. Bring work gloves. Loose clothing and jewelry are dangerous around power tools.
2. Worker should wear boots or thick soled shoes. Any worker wearing sandals, open toed shoes, flip flops or other inappropriate footwear will not be allowed to remain on the construction site.
3. Workers must wear approved safety glasses when using power tools. Eye protection should be worn when hammering nails.
4. Earplugs should be worn when operating loud tools.
5. Hard hats should be worn when there are persons working above you that could drop materials or tools.

Hand and Power tools:                                                     

1. Minimum age for using power tools is 18.
2. Wear approved safety glasses. Prescription glasses and sunglasses do not count.
3. Guards on saws must be in place and operating.
4. Don’t bind the blade of any saw. If the blade binds the saw could kick back and cause serious injury. 
5. Keep power cords free of the cutting path of saws.
6. Always saw on secure sturdy surfaces.
7. Regularly inspect tools for broken or missing pieces.
8. Use only grounded 3 prong extension cords plugged into GFCI outlets. Regularly inspect power cords for damaged or frayed wires.
9. Disconnect power sources before moving the tool, making adjustments or changing blades or bits. Replace dull blades or bits.
10. Utility knives are very sharp. Always cut away from you. Keep hands out of the blades path. Retract or cover blade when not in immediate use.
11. When cutting or drilling through walls, persons on the other side should be notified and move out of the cutting or drilling area.
12. Individuals should have experience or receive proper training before using power tools.
13. Use tools for their intended purpose.

Ladder Use:

1. Do not leave hammers, tools or materials on top of stepladder or steps.
2. Place stepladders on solid, level footing. Do not over reach.
3. Do not stand or sit on the top rung or platform of a stepladder.
4. Always open stepladders and place all four feet firmly on solid ground.  Lock the spreader.
5. Extension ladders must be extended 3 feet above the step off point.
6. Keep body near the middle of the ladder. Avoid leaning off the edge of the ladder. Move the ladder frequently so you’re not tempted to over reach and fall.
7. Use proper angle with extension ladders. Use 4 to 1 rule. For every 4 foot of height, move the ladder 1 foot out from the wall.
8. Make sure extension ladder latches are secure before climbing.

All workers must attend the daily general safety speech prior to working on the construction site.

I acknowledge and confirm that I have read, reviewed, understood, and agree to the terms and conditions of the Volunteer Agreement, Release and Waiver of Liability, and Work Crew Safety Guidelines provided by Habitat for Humanity of Clay County. I further acknowledge and agree that my participation as a volunteer may also be subject to additional volunteer-related documents, directives, policies, procedures, releases, waivers, safety rules, codes of conduct, acknowledgments, requirements, and terms issued, provided, referenced, or made available by Habitat for Humanity of Clay County, Habitat for Humanity International, or any related Habitat program, partner, affiliate, or authorized representative. By typing my name and submitting this volunteer application, I am providing my legal electronic signature and confirming my full acknowledgment, acceptance, and agreement to be bound by all applicable volunteer documents, terms, conditions, releases, waivers, safety requirements, and participation rules. I understand that these documents are intended to define my responsibilities, inform me of safety expectations, address risks associated with volunteer service, and release and protect Habitat for Humanity of Clay County, Habitat for Humanity International, their officers, directors, employees, agents, representatives, partners, affiliates, and related parties from liability to the fullest extent permitted by law.

IMPORTANT: If the Volunteer is less than 18 years of age, all parents or guardians must complete the signature section below. If only one parent or guardian signs these forms on behalf of a Volunteer who is under 18 years of age, then the undersigned parent or guardian of the Volunteer hereby covenants, warrants, represents and agrees that he or she is executing these forms on behalf of, and as an agent for, any other individual who may be a parent or guardian of the Volunteer, that he/she is fully authorized to do so, and that by executing such Release and Parental Authorization, the undersigned is binding himself/herself, the Volunteer, and any other parent or guardian of the Volunteer, and all of their heirs, next of kin, assigns, and legal representatives to such Release and Parental Authorization.

I have carefully considered my decision, the benefits and risks involved and hereby give my informed consent, on behalf of the above listed minor child, for him/her to participate in all Activities as set forth in the above Volunteer Agreement, Release and Waiver of Liability, and such terms are incorporated herein. I have read and understand the above Volunteer Agreement, Release and Waiver of Liability, any questions of mine have been answered, and I voluntarily agree to all such provisions. It is my intent to bind my and the minor Volunteer's heirs, next of kin, assigns, and legal representatives. Furthermore, I understand that the above Volunteer Agreement, Release and Waiver of Liability is made on behalf of my minor child(ren) and/or legal wards and I represent and warrant to Habitat for Humanity International, Inc. or its affiliated organizations that I have the full authority to sign this on behalf of such minor(s).