Risk Management and Safety Setup

Safety and risk management are foundational components of any successful community FTC team. Establishing clear protocols from day one protects students, mentors, and the organization, while ensuring compliance with FIRST rules and local regulations. A proactive safety culture also fosters confidence and accountability among team members.

Safety Fundamentals

Tool Training and Certification

All students and mentors should receive proper training on each tool and piece of equipment they use. Consider certification for power tools or soldering stations to verify competence and reduce accident risk.

Emergency Procedures

Clearly define emergency exits, communication plans, fire drills, and evacuation protocols. Ensure all team members know how to respond in case of fire, injury, or other emergencies.

First Aid Availability

Maintain accessible first aid kits and, when possible, have certified first aid responders present during builds and competitions.

Parent/Guardian Permissions and Waivers

Collect signed waivers from all participants acknowledging potential risks. Permissions should cover participation in both regular meetings and offsite events.

Liability Considerations

Insurance Requirements

Evaluate whether general liability or accident insurance is necessary. Some sponsors, venues, or FIRST events may require proof of coverage.

Waiver Templates

Use standardized waiver templates approved for youth programs. Maintain records securely and ensure they are updated annually.

Incident Documentation

Record all accidents, near misses, or unsafe incidents. Documenting events helps with prevention, accountability, and compliance reporting.

Mentor Background Checks

Where applicable, perform background checks on mentors and volunteers, particularly when working with minors. This adds a layer of safety and demonstrates due diligence to parents and partners.