Over the past several years, a growing number of Canadian ski resorts across the country have reported an increase in unauthorized, private/freelance teaching of lessons has been taking place on their property. Not only is such activity prohibited by the industry and the CSIA, but it is also important to understand that the CSIA insurance will not provide liability insurance coverage or accident insurance when CSIA members offer freelance services directly to clients.
Canadian ski resort operators have invested heavily in developing safe and robust systems for ensuring their guests enjoy the best experience possible while visiting their resort. Ski lessons are generally available through the resort’s official snow school, but in some cases this service may be provided by travelling snow schools or specialized training groups that operate with the expressed approval from the host resort’s management and have secured appropriate 3rd party insurance coverage.
All CSIA certified instructors are required to adhere to the CSIA’s Code of Conduct which covers responsible teaching and integrity in relationships. The Code specifically addresses requirements for respect for fellow ski instructors, candidates, CSIA staff, and systems, as well as industry partners and their staff. The Code also requires CSIA members to have knowledge of ski resort policies and procedures where they teach, and to respect and promote cooperation with resorts, ski schools, the public, and other groups or organizations that participate in and promote skiing and other snow sports.
It is not difficult to imagine that the unauthorized, independent teaching of ski lessons posses significant harm to the good reputation and interest of the CSIA and its members. Any individual, including CSIA certified instructors, who engages in teaching activities without express permission from resort management may face legal action that could result in significant financial consequences such as a requirement to pay a monetary damages award and/or personal liability for any injuries suffered by students. Such conduct may, in certain circumstances, also result in legal charges. Furthermore, this activity is a clear breach of the Alliances’ Code of Conduct and any member found to have done so will face disciplinary action from the CSIA which may include a suspension of their membership.
If you witness or suspect a CSIA certified instructor of engaging in this type of activity, please contact the CSIA Ombuds Office csiaamscombuds@snowpro.com for consultation or submit an official complaint by email to code@snowpro.com.
Below is a quick view of the type of work our member are currently engaged in, along with the liability insurance information.
Snow School Instruction Models
