Results for April 2011
As the winter season is drawing to an end and you are considering work for next year it is worth taking some time to reflect on what your snowsport instructor qualifications mean and whether you are covered should things go wrong.
“What’s the difference between God and a ski instructor?”
“God doesn’t think he’s a ski instructor..."
It’s an old joke, but when I heard it recently, on the back of a couple of situations being considered by the Board at the moment, it got me thinking that there might be a message in even an old joke like this. Do snowsport instructors have a God like sense that being armed with a BASI badge means there is no mountain (excuse the pun) we can’t climb, or even no mountain we can’t teach on?
I think, fortunately, the answer, is no and that instructors are aware of the limitations that exist in relation to their licence. Nevertheless, experience suggests that in practice the "who's, where's and what" an instructor may teach can get blurred, particularly when we’re keen to get work, impress clients and stand out from the crowd.
Unfortunately, the consequences for teaching while not qualified or insured can be serious. Members can and have become liable for fines and even incarceration – Not exactly the instructor dream! Anecdotal evidence suggests that skiers are falling into this trap more often at the moment, but the message applies to all disciplines and it is certainly not the case that this is a problem exclusive to those with Alpine licences.
It is with this in mind and the fact that BASI have had a number of enquiries from members recently regarding the legality of their employment at different levels in different countries and the consequences of not being properly insured we would like to extend the following advice;
1. Before accepting employment check the status of your qualification in the country you are planning to work in. There is information regarding this on the BASI website.
www.basi.org.uk/content/countries-rules--regulations-for-employment.aspx
2. BASI liability insurance acts as a safety net for those members who may be let down by their employers' insurance - eg if an employer fails to renew their policy, or if you are a member working independently. However, to be covered by the BASI liability insurance you must be working both within the remit of your licence and legally in the country of employment. If you are not covered by your employer's insurance (have you actually checked with them?) but are carrying out work that is not strictly within the scope of your licence, then you will not have insurance cover if a claim is made against you. (For an example, of the levels for Alpine instructors: see
www.basi.org.uk/content/alpine.aspx ).
3. Ultimately this amounts to a matter of individual responsibility. When assessing employment offers BASI would suggest that all members exercise reasonable diligence: check out your prospective employer and ask if you are insured, speak with former and current employees if you can, and make sure you personally follow points 1 and 2 above.
Finally, as you might be aware, BASI are involved in high level negotiations with the EU in an effort to achieve further clarity and equality in snowsport qualifications. Accordingly, the legal position regarding where members can work should become clearer over time.
Should you have any queries in relation to your licence please contact the BASI office for further advice.
Coral Riddell
Legal Director, BASI 13 April 2011
PUBLISHED 28/04/2011
Dear Snowsports Instructors
As a summer promotion (May 3rd – September 30th) Special rate day passes are available to BASI qualified members on production of a valid BASI card. On producing a valid card at reception BASI members will receive a £25.00 recreational pass (subject to availability and opening times). Quote BASI MEMBER to redeem this offer. Please note your licence must be presented and must be valid.
BASI members who are level 4 or trainers are welcome to bring their own clients to The Snow Centre and teach them on a private basis. This offer will be subject to available times and agreeing to our private instructor policy. This offer is NOT part of the recreational offer and will be charged at a different rate. If you are a member in this category and require a copy of the policy please email peter.gillespie@thesnowcentre.com
Enjoy the summer but don’t lose your snow fix!
Pete Gillespie
PUBLISHED 04/04/2011