ADMINISTRATION
Diocese-15
3/15/96
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Diocese of San Diego
If volunteers are used to perform certain jobs or tasks, some consideration should be given to the risks or hazards associated with the work. There should also be close supervision and control over the activities of volunteers.
Volunteers should work at ground level, whenever possible. Falls from ladders or other heights can result in a substantial injury.
Tasks requiring special tools, equipment, or expertise could indicate that the job is
not for a volunteer and should be performed by a licensed and insured contractor. The same could be said if the job involves risk of movement of heavy objects where physical injury could occur.
When the parish is approached by someone who has to do court ordered volunteer work, the request normally should be declined because of the added risks and exposure involved. Details of the offense committed could be misrepresented by the individual just to have parish officials agree to the community service work.
If the individual is a parishioner, some consideration could be given to allow him or her to do volunteer work. Background information concerning the offense should be obtained from the individual and verified by the court or probation officer.