Massage therapy is a common service offered by fitness clubs across the world but the close nature of the procedure presents a significant risk for massage therapists, clients and club owners alike. Massage therapists and clients are placed in a vulnerable position that requires a level of professionalism, trust and comfort. Given the sensitivity of massage therapy, proper protocols need to be in place that protect the safety of all parties. Consider the following ways to manage harassment risk when offering massage therapy services.
Protect Your Business
Clubs that offer massage therapy should ensure they have the proper protocols in place, prior to serving any clients. Depending on the needs of a club and its clients, protocols will vary but they may include what happens if an accusation is made. Protocols should include a point of contact for staff and clients to bring complaints to, ideally anonymously, as well as a communications plan for if employees, clients or media personnel have questions about a specific incident. Having these policies in place early on can help ensure they are enforced quickly and cohesively, leaving little room for misinterpretation.
From a hiring perspective, all massage therapists must be properly screened prior to employment. Screening might include verifying their licensing and checking references. If someone has a history of engaging in inappropriate behavior, it will likely come up during the screening process.
Protect Your Staff and Clients
Proper training is crucial for massage therapists. Prior to working with clients, they should be made aware of the clubs’ policies and protocols, how to identify and report inappropriate behavior, and how to communicate with clients during massages to ensure their comfort and confidence in their therapist. These steps will help alleviate confusion or surprises as well as give clients a chance to voice discomfort should they be uncomfortable during a massage.
Investigation
As mentioned above, there should be an allocated point of contact who handles harassment allegations and employees, and clients should be able to easily access or make aware of who that person is. If an allegation is made either by a client or massage therapist, there should be immediate investigative steps such as placing an accused employee on leave during the investigation. Such situations can easily get lost in a game of telephone as fellow employees, club members and even the media draw their own conclusions. It’s critical clubs are as transparent as they can be to control a spiral. An insurance agent or broker who specializes in fitness club risk can be a great resource in handling these situations and mitigating related risks.
Clients come to fitness clubs for a range of reasons and massage therapy can be an ideal way for them to relax and recharge. It’s important when offering clients these services, club operators keep employee and client safety at top of mind and do everything they can to prevent or properly address harassment claims.
