Waivers of Liability

A Waiver of Liability form is used to:

  • Inform prospective participants of potential risks involved with an activity
  • Allow an individual to voluntarily choose to incur risks
  • Secure an agreement from the individual to hold the university harmless

Contacts

General rules for use

The following table details the times when waivers of liability should be utilized.

No Waiver

  • Required for class credit
  • An event or activity in which faculty/staff is acting in the course and scope of employment
  • Activities with little risk
  • Volunteer (see volunteer forms)

May be Appropriate

  • Elective or voluntary field trips
  • Recreational activities
  • Short distance travel

Strongly Recommend

  • Activities with overnight travel
  • Out of town trips
  • High risk activities

Required

  • When minors are involved

About Volunteers

Volunteers should not sign the Waiver of Liability form, and instead, complete a Conditions of Volunteer Service Form.

Forms

If waivers are needed for events or an activity, departments must use the university's form. Please review the Guidelines and FAQ.  Risk Management can advise on the use of the waiver form for your specific event or activity. Please note that these forms might be periodically updated. 


 

Model Release Forms

A model release form may be necessary for most film or photography involving people amid UO locations. As a general rule, if video or photography focuses on a single person or a small group, they should complete and sign a model release form. Always have release forms signed for minors. If there is any question as to the legal standing to use the likeness of your subject, have him or her sign a release form. The Model Release Form is managed and hosted by University Communications.  

Information and Resources

About Minors

The university will conduct criminal background checks for any university employee or volunteer working in youth programs. Please review the Background Check Guidelines for more information on how to start the process. Human Resources (541-346-3159) also has information on minors on campus.  

Retention Rule


 IV.05. Finance, Administration and Infrastructure/Public Safety - 405-10-120

3 years after the end of the event or activity for which the waiver was signed, purge. In cases where agreements are part of contracts, retain for as long as the contract.