Review before your next project
Whether you're organizing a construction day, a community outreach event, or a simple cleanup, volunteer projects are a big part of ministry life — and they come with important responsibilities. You'll want to think through the key safety, legal, and leadership questions before anyone picks up a hammer or signs up to serve. Even when volunteers bring valuable skills to the table, it’s still essential to provide proper oversight and ensure everyone is working within safe, appropriate boundaries. It’s not about red tape — it’s about caring well for your volunteers and protecting your ministry.
Construction: Using Volunteer Workers
Who pays when a volunteer is hurt?
Many churches rely heavily on volunteer labor for remodeling or construction projects. But such hazardous work as building repair or remodeling, new construction, and roof replacement can pose dangers for your volunteers and your ministry. Before volunteer work begins, take steps to reduce the risk of injury:
Make sure the project is conducive to volunteer labor. Large or complex construction or demolition jobs are best left to professionals.
Keep in mind that working on roofs, ladders, or scaffolding is inherently dangerous. Be sure to instruct volunteers on safe work procedures and the safe use of all equipment.
Designate a project leader who understands the importance of safety and who will be alert to unsafe behavior that could result in injury.
Enlist only volunteers who are skilled and physically capable of undertaking the work assignment required of them.
Volunteers May Not Qualify for Workers' Compensation
Although the law varies from state to state, in most states, volunteers will not be covered under workers' compensation statutes. So if a volunteer were injured while working for your church, medical coverage may be available only under your church's general liability “premises medical payments” policy. Check with your insurance agent to determine the extent of your coverage and the circumstances under which it may cover volunteer injuries.
If your church undertakes a large project, consult your attorney to make sure all potential liability exposures have been addressed. You may wish to consider having volunteers and independent contractors sign a “hold harmless” agreement to protect the church against liability claims resulting from project.
Posted 2018
The information provided in this article is intended to be helpful, but it does not constitute legal advice and is not a substitute for the advice from a licensed attorney in your area. We strongly encourage you to regularly consult with a local attorney as part of your risk management program.
