Salmo Climbing Society (SCS)

Code of Conduct, Youth Safety & Gym Access Rules

Effective Date: Jan 1, 2026
Approved By: SCS Board

Purpose

This policy establishes clear expectations for behaviour, supervision, safety, and facility access at Salmo Climbing Society (SCS). It is intended to promote a respectful, inclusive, and safe environment for all participants, with particular care given to youth and other vulnerable participants.

This policy operates alongside the SCS Participant Waiver and the SCS Policies & Procedures Manual. It does not replace or limit the legal effect of the waiver.

1. Scope

This policy applies to:

• All participants and members

• Volunteers and staff

• Board members

• Coaches, instructors, and facilitators

• Visitors and spectators where applicable

Compliance with this policy is a condition of participation, membership, employment, volunteering, or facility access with SCS.

2. Core Values

Salmo Climbing Society is committed to:

• Physical and emotional safety

• Respect, inclusion, and dignity for all individuals

• Community responsibility and shared accountability

• Clear and appropriate boundaries between participants, volunteers, and staff

3. General Code of Conduct

All individuals in the facility are expected to:

• Treat others with respect and courtesy

• Follow posted rules, applicable access requirements, and instructions from SCS staff or volunteers

• Use equipment only as intended

• Refrain from aggressive, unsafe, or reckless behaviour

• Avoid harassment, discrimination, or bullying of any kind

• Not climb while impaired or when any condition makes climbing unsafe

Compliance with Gym Rules

All participants are expected to follow posted gym rules and applicable instructions from SCS staff or volunteers. Posted gym rules are considered an extension of this policy. Failure to comply may result in removal from the facility or suspension of access.

Situational Awareness

Participants must remain aware of their surroundings at all times, including fall zones and active climbing areas. Standing, walking, or sitting beneath climbers, or engaging in behaviour that places others at risk, is not permitted.

SCS reserves the right to remove any individual from the facility whose behaviour compromises safety or community wellbeing.

4. Youth Safety Principles

SCS is committed to creating an environment that minimizes risk and promotes appropriate interactions between adults and minors.

The following principles apply at all times:

• Safety is a shared responsibility

• Clear professional and personal boundaries must be maintained

• Transparency and visibility are essential

5. Supervision Standards for Minors

Salmo Climbing Society follows posted age and supervision requirements at all times.

Participants 13 years of age and older may climb unsupervised (waiver required).

Participants under 19 years of age must have a parent or legal guardian sign their waiver.

Children under 13 must be actively supervised by a responsible adult at all times while in the climbing space.

Active supervision means:

• The supervising adult remains inside the climbing area

• The supervising adult maintains visual awareness and responsibility

• The supervising adult is not distracted or engaged in unrelated activities

Additional supervision requirements:

• Ages 3–5: Must remain within arm’s reach on the mats and have 1:1 supervision from someone 16+

• Ages 6–12: Must have active supervision from someone 16+ inside the climbing space

Parents and guardians remain legally responsible for minors unless the minor is enrolled in a designated SCS program that explicitly states supervised instruction is provided.

Supervision Acknowledgement

By signing this document, I understand that children under 13 must be actively supervised at all times while in the climbing space, and I accept full responsibility for the supervision and behaviour of any minor in my care.

6. Boundaries & Appropriate Interaction

The following expectations apply to all volunteers, staff, and instructors:

• No isolated one-to-one interactions with minors in closed or hidden spaces

• Interactions with minors must occur in open, observable areas whenever possible

• Physical contact must be limited to what is necessary for safety or instruction and must remain appropriate and professional

• Personal communication with minors outside of SCS activities (e.g., texting, social media, private messaging) is discouraged and should be avoided unless explicitly approved by SCS leadership

7. Changing Areas & Washrooms

• Volunteers and staff should not enter washrooms or changing areas occupied by minors unless there is an immediate safety concern

• When assistance is required, another adult should be present whenever possible

8. Prohibited Conduct

The following behaviours are strictly prohibited:

• Any form of physical, emotional, or sexual abuse

• Inappropriate touching or sexualized behaviour

• Verbal harassment, intimidation, or humiliation

• Providing alcohol, drugs, or prohibited substances to minors

• Retaliation against any individual who raises a safety concern

9. Unstaffed Access

Independent unstaffed access is available only to authorized members aged 16 and older.

Members under 16 may use the facility during unstaffed hours only when accompanied and actively supervised by an authorized adult member aged 19 or older.

To use the facility during unstaffed hours, members must:

• Have a valid monthly membership or active 10-punch pass

• Have completed the current SCS Participant Waiver, including the terms applicable to unstaffed operation

• Have completed the required wall orientation

Unstaffed access is for members only. Friends, guests and drop-ins may attend during posted public-access hours. Members interested in helping provide more public access are encouraged to volunteer to host public climbing sessions.

Unstaffed Operation

During unstaffed hours:

• No SCS staff or volunteers are present to supervise climbing, identify hazards, provide first aid or respond to emergencies

• Climbing alone is not recommended

• Anyone choosing to climb alone should understand that assistance may not be immediately available if they are injured, incapacitated or otherwise need help

• Participants are responsible for climbing within their abilities and stopping if they feel unwell or unsafe or become aware of a hazard

• Parents and supervising adults remain responsible for minors in their care in accordance with SCS youth supervision requirements

Access & Facility Rules

Members issued unstaffed-access credentials must:

• Use only their individually assigned access credentials and never share them with another person

• Not permit unauthorized persons to enter using their access credentials or by following them through an access-controlled entrance

• Admit or accompany only members permitted to enter under these rules

• Ensure that any member they accompany has an eligible membership or pass, a current waiver and the required wall orientation

• Follow all posted gym rules, authorized access hours and facility closures

• Ensure the entrance closes and locks after entering and leaving

• Promptly report injuries, significant hazards, incidents, near misses and use of the SOS device to SCS

• Leave the facility if conditions appear unsafe or if directed by SCS

Unstaffed access is a membership privilege. SCS may suspend or revoke unstaffed access for unsafe conduct, credential sharing, unauthorized entry or failure to follow these requirements.

Emergency Response

In an emergency:

1. Call 911 directly or use the SOS device to contact 911.

2. Provide the facility address shown on the posted Emergency Response sign.

3. If another person is available, have them meet emergency responders at the alley entrance and guide them through the youth lounge to the climbing gym.

4. Report the incident and any SOS-device use to SCS as soon as reasonably possible.

Emergency equipment locations and additional instructions are posted inside the facility.

Video Surveillance

The climbing facility and entrance are recorded by security cameras for safety, incident review, facility security and insurance purposes.

Recordings are retained for a minimum of two years and may be accessed, preserved or disclosed when reasonably required for incident investigation, insurance, legal or law-enforcement purposes.

Cameras are not continuously monitored and do not provide supervision or guarantee that an injury or emergency will be detected or that assistance will be provided.

10. Reporting Concerns & Incidents

All staff, volunteers, participants, and members are encouraged to report:

• Unsafe behaviour

• Boundary violations

• Injuries, incidents or near misses

• Significant hazards

• Unauthorized facility access

• Any conduct that causes discomfort or concern

Reports may be made to:

• An on-duty volunteer or staff member

• A designated SCS board representative

Concerns will be taken seriously and addressed in a timely and appropriate manner.

11. Response to Incidents & Policy Violations

SCS may take actions including:

• Verbal warnings

• Removal from the facility

• Suspension or revocation of facility or unstaffed access

• Suspension or termination of membership or volunteer involvement

• Notification of parents or guardians

• Contacting external authorities where legally required

12. Non-Retaliation

SCS strictly prohibits retaliation against any individual who, in good faith, raises a concern or reports unsafe or inappropriate behaviour.

13. Review & Updates

This policy will be reviewed periodically by the SCS Board to ensure it remains appropriate, practical, and aligned with community standards, insurance requirements, and operational realities.

Acknowledgement & Agreement

By signing below, I acknowledge that I have read, understand, and agree to comply with the Salmo Climbing Society Code of Conduct, Youth Safety & Gym Access Rules.

I understand that if I use the facility during unstaffed hours, the additional requirements in the Unstaffed Access section apply to me.

I acknowledge the use of video surveillance as described above and confirm that my participant and emergency-contact information is current.

I understand that failure to comply with this policy may result in removal from the facility, suspension or revocation of facility access, suspension or termination of membership or volunteer involvement, or other actions as deemed appropriate by SCS.

Full Name: {name}
Date of Birth: {dob}

Signature:
Date Signed: {sign_date}

End of Document

Salmo Climbing Society (SCS)

Volunteer Gym Attendant Application

This application is used to assess suitability for volunteering as a Gym Attendant at Salmo Climbing Society (SCS). Gym Attendants support safe, welcoming, and community-oriented climbing sessions and are responsible for conducting participant onboarding procedures, as outlined in the SCS Policies & Procedures Manual. Submission of this application does not guarantee acceptance. All volunteer approvals, responsibilities, and permissions are assigned at the discretion of SCS leadership.

Applicant Information

Full Name: {name}

Date of Birth (18+): {dob}

Address: {address}

Phone: {phone}

Email:

Criminal Record Check Requirement

Because the Salmo Climbing Society works with children and youth, a Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Screening is required for volunteers who may supervise or interact with minors.

Applicants selected to move forward in the onboarding process will be asked to provide a current Criminal Record Check prior to beginning volunteer duties.

CRC letters for volunteer purposes may be obtained at no cost through the local RCMP detachment. Once your application has been reviewed, SCS will attach a supporting letter to your Gymdesk profile under “Documents” to assist you in obtaining your check.

I understand that a Criminal Record Check may be required as part of the volunteer onboarding process.

Availability & Commitment

Typical days / times available:

Able to commit to a minimum number of volunteer shifts per month?

 Yes   No

Climbing & Gym Experience (Optional)

Years of climbing experience (if any):

Types of climbing practiced (e.g., bouldering, gym, outdoor):

Previous gym, coaching, or supervision experience (if any):

Relevant Experience

Please list any work or volunteer experience related to:

• supervision or youth work

• customer service or community roles

• safety, recreation, or facility operations

Skills & Abilities

Comfortable supervising participants of all ages?

 Yes   No

Comfortable enforcing safety rules and addressing unsafe behaviour?

 Yes   No

Able to lift and move equipment safely (within reason)?

 Yes   No

First Aid & Certifications (Optional)

While not required at the time of application, applicants with current First Aid training may be prioritized during selection.

SCS will provide semi-regular First Aid training opportunities for volunteers to support a safe and well-prepared facility environment.

List any relevant certifications (e.g., First Aid, CPR, WFA):

If listed, are certifications currently valid?

 Yes   No

Motivation

Why do you want to volunteer as a Gym Attendant at SCS?

References (Optional but appreciated)

If possible, please provide one or two references who can speak to your character, reliability, or relevant experience (employer, coach, teacher, or community member).

Reference(s):

Emergency Contact

Name: {contact_name}

Phone: {contact_phone}

Relationship: {contact_relation}

These should auto-populate from your profile. If not, please add them to your profile

Media Consent (Optional)

I consent to the use of photos or videos in which I may appear for SCS promotional or educational purposes.

 Yes

Applicant Declaration

I certify that the information provided in this application is accurate and complete. I understand that volunteering with Salmo Climbing Society requires compliance with all applicable policies, procedures, and directions from SCS leadership, and that volunteer roles, permissions, or access may be modified or revoked at any time.

Applicant Signature:

Date: {sign_date}

Initials:

End of Application

SALMO CLIMBING SOCIETY

PARTICIPANT WAIVER, RELEASE OF LIABILITY, ASSUMPTION OF RISK & PARENT/GUARDIAN CONSENT

Participant Name: {name}
Date of Birth: {dob}
Address: {address}
Phone: {phone}

1. ASSUMPTION OF RISK

I understand and acknowledge that indoor rock climbing and bouldering are inherently dangerous activities. These activities involve risks that may result in serious personal injury, permanent disability, paralysis, or death.

These risks include, but are not limited to:

• Falls from height and improper landings

• Collisions with walls, climbing holds, flooring, equipment, or other participants

• Falling climbers or objects

• Equipment failure, movement, improper use, or misuse

• Overexertion, fatigue, or medical events

• The acts or omissions of other participants, staff, volunteers, or other persons

• Delayed discovery of an injury or medical emergency

• Delayed access to first aid, emergency assistance, or emergency medical services

I understand that the SCS facility may operate during both staffed and unstaffed periods. During unstaffed access, no SCS staff or volunteers may be present to observe participants, identify an injury or emergency, provide first aid, summon assistance, or otherwise respond.

If I choose to participate during unstaffed access, particularly while alone, I understand that I may be solely responsible for recognizing an emergency and summoning assistance. If I become unconscious, incapacitated, or otherwise unable to call for help, assistance may be significantly delayed.

I voluntarily choose to participate in climbing activities at the Salmo Climbing Society (“SCS”) facility with full knowledge and acceptance of these risks.

2. RELEASE AND WAIVER OF LIABILITY

In consideration for being permitted to participate in activities at the Salmo Climbing Society climbing facility, I hereby release, waive, and forever discharge Salmo Climbing Society, its directors, officers, employees, volunteers, instructors, contractors, sponsors, partners, representatives, successors and assigns, and the facility owner and operator, including the Salmo Valley Youth and Community Centre Society (collectively, the “Released Parties”), from any and all claims, demands, actions, or causes of action arising out of or related to my participation in climbing activities or my presence at the facility, including during staffed or unstaffed access and including claims arising from negligence, to the fullest extent permitted by the laws of British Columbia.

I understand that by signing this agreement I am giving up certain legal rights, including the right to sue the Released Parties for claims covered by this agreement.

3. INDEMNIFICATION

I agree to indemnify and hold harmless the Released Parties from any loss, liability, damage, or cost (including legal fees) arising from my participation in climbing activities, my actions at the facility, or my failure to follow facility rules, instructions, or safety requirements.

4. FACILITY OPERATION & PARTICIPANT RESPONSIBILITY

I understand that SCS is a community-based climbing facility that operates using a combination of staff, volunteers, and authorized unstaffed access.

I acknowledge that:

• Staff or volunteers may not always be present at the facility

• The presence of staff, volunteers, other participants, surveillance equipment, access-control systems, or emergency communication systems does not constitute continuous supervision or guarantee that assistance will be available

• Participants are responsible for climbing within their abilities and comfort level and for assessing whether they can participate safely

• Climbing alone during authorized unstaffed access may increase the consequences of an injury or medical emergency

• Unstaffed access is subject to separate eligibility requirements, orientation, facility rules, and access conditions established by SCS

• Parents and guardians are responsible for supervising minors as required by SCS rules unless the minor is participating in a designated supervised program

5. MEDICAL FITNESS

I confirm that the participant is physically and medically fit to participate in climbing activities. SCS does not assess individual fitness to climb and does not provide medical advice.

Participation will stop immediately if the participant feels injured, unwell, fatigued, or unsafe.

6. RULES, CONDUCT & REMOVAL

I agree that the participant will follow all posted facility rules, safety requirements, and applicable instructions provided by SCS staff or volunteers.

I understand that additional rules and eligibility requirements apply to unstaffed access.

Unsafe, aggressive, inappropriate, or unauthorized behaviour, including violation of unstaffed access requirements, may result in removal from the facility or suspension or revocation of access without refund.

ADDITIONAL TERMS FOR PARTICIPANTS UNDER THE AGE OF MAJORITY

If the participant is under the age of majority in the Province of British Columbia, I confirm that I am the participant’s parent or legal guardian and have full authority to sign this agreement on their behalf.

I acknowledge that:

• Indoor climbing involves inherent risks, including falls and impact injuries

• SCS does not provide one-to-one supervision unless explicitly stated in a specific program

• I cannot waive the minor’s legal rights

To the fullest extent permitted by law, I agree to indemnify and hold harmless the Released Parties from any claims brought:

• by the minor

• on behalf of the minor

• by me relating to the minor’s participation

• by third parties arising from the minor’s actions

I understand that access by minors, including access during unstaffed periods, is subject to SCS age, supervision, membership, and access requirements.

SCS reserves the right to require additional parental or guardian consent prior to participation or access.

7. PHOTO / VIDEO CONSENT (OPTIONAL)

I DO NOT consent to photo/video use for non-commercial promotional purposes.

8. GOVERNING LAW & SEVERABILITY

This agreement shall be governed by and interpreted in accordance with the laws of the Province of British Columbia.

If any portion of this agreement is found to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining portions shall continue in full force and effect.

9. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT & SIGNATURE

I confirm that I have had sufficient opportunity to read this entire agreement, that I have read and understood it, and that I am signing voluntarily.

I understand that this is a release of liability and waiver of claims and that by signing it I am giving up certain legal rights.

If the participant is under the age of majority in British Columbia, I confirm that I am the participant’s parent or legal guardian and have authority to sign this agreement.

Signature:
Date: {sign_date}