By Ronnie Miles, NGCOA, Senior Director of Advocacy
Golf course owners and operators face a unique set of challenges in managing their operations, one of which is ensuring the safety and well-being of their employees. We’ve all heard stories of golfers who maybe had one too many alcoholic beverages and become over-friendly with female staff. As an owner or general manager, what steps should you take to address this behavior? A recent ruling in Arizona highlights the critical importance of this responsibility. The case involved a golf course where an employee was subjected to inappropriate conduct by a guest. The court granted summary judgment in favor of the employer, primarily because golf course management responded to the complaint by addressing the issue with the guest and reprimanding other employees who witnessed the act but failed to take any action.
This ruling serves as a wake-up call for golf course operators. The duty to provide a safe working environment extends to shielding employees and their co-workers from inappropriate guests' actions. Failure to address misconduct not only jeopardizes employee safety but can also lead to significant legal and financial consequences.
Implementing clear policies, providing training on how to handle difficult situations, and fostering an environment where employees feel supported in reporting issues are crucial steps to take. By enacting these measures, golf course owners can reduce liability and create a safer, more respectful environment for both employees and guests.
In a hospitality-driven industry, ensuring the safety and respect of all individuals in the clubhouse and on the course is not just good practice—it's essential for sustainable operations.
.