Risk-Management Child-Protection Measures and Protocols

Protecting Colorado Children and Caregivers

Organizations and professionals who work with children face unique challenges. We are here to help guide and educate you about what types of risk-management measures you should take to protect the children entrusted to your care.

Since its founding in 1983, Robert A. Lees & Associates has published numerous manuals and articles that address due diligence and risk-management issues essential to the success of child-centered facilities and professionals. Bob has lectured widely on the subject and has served on Colorado Governor-appointed task forces to address this important matter. In many of these instances, Bob either drafted what was eventually passed into law, or was instrumental in providing input into the language of the law.

Risk-Prevention Measures

A well-devised risk-prevention plan recognizes potential problems and establishes clear measures for avoiding them. In a childcare or educational setting, this can mean developing a strict code of conduct that limits contact between children and their caregivers and that prohibits actions that can — even unintentionally — place children in an uncomfortable or compromising position. In a mental health therapy setting, this can mean clearly setting expectations from patients/clients; parents/guardians; and, spouses/partners. Also, your plan might include standards for disciplining children to maintain control while respecting their dignity, privacy and well-being. Creating rules designed to prevent physical injuries is another essential component of a successful plan.

Our team helps you draft essential policies to incorporate into your employee handbook, student code of conduct, patient/client consent forms and parental waivers and disclosures. As we design appropriate risk-prevention measures for your organization, we consider how to protect the children in your care while not hindering your ability to perform the work that helps you accomplish your important goals.

Developing Reporting Protocols

Accidents occur in even the most cautious facilities. Reporting protocols create a vital record of the circumstances surrounding the incident and document the steps taken to mitigate injuries after the accident occurred. These reporting measures allow parents and doctors to follow up if additional care is needed. Maintaining thorough reporting procedures also protects your facility from frivolous negligence lawsuits. Your records can provide necessary proof that your staff followed clearly defined risk-prevention measures and responded promptly and appropriately to the authorities.

Consult our dedicated Colorado attorneys about establishing vital child-protection measures and protocols for your organization

For assistance with protecting the most vulnerable members of our community and those who care for them, call Robert A. Lees & Associates at 303–292–1020 or contact us online to speak with us further.