Giving Compass' Take:

• Scott Huntington discusses how employers need to ensure the safety of their employees during volunteer programs that are out of office. 

• What are some volunteer safety tips that you have picked up?

• Read about how volunteering can help your career. 

Volunteering is typically a major component of company culture and corporate social responsibility (CSR). And encouraging your employees to dedicate their time to bettering the community can benefit your team both personally and professionally. Not only can it build teamwork and skills, but it can also allow your employees to end the day feeling good about themselves.

However, not all volunteer opportunities are located in safe areas. In fact, sometimes the most meaningful giving happens in dangerous places, such as providing relief to areas recently affected by natural disaster. When these opportunities arise, it’s always important to ensure your team is safe and well taken care of.

Remind Everyone to Take Care of Their Health

When volunteering, it’s important that everyone focuses on maintaining their own health and safety. Small mistakes, such as forgetting to drink enough water, could leave employees feeling sick and lightheaded, especially if they’re working outside in high temperatures.

Outline Safety Procedures

Proper planning and preparation are essential no matter what volunteer work you’re doing. Mistakes happen, and unexpected events may arise, so ensuring everyone knows what to do in an emergency is vital for guaranteeing everyone’s safety.

Consider Your Employees' Skills

If your employees don’t have the skills or desire to take on the commitment required, don’t pressure them to do so. Putting employees who do not have the right skills into an unfit volunteer situation might end very poorly for you and your team.

Read the full article about best practices for making sure employees who volunteer feel safe by Scott Huntington at 3BL Media.