ISEN-ASTC-L is a service of the Association of Science-Technology Centers
Incorporated, a worldwide network of science museums and related institutions.
*****************************************************************************
Jeff,
I would be very interested in a session. Though far from being an
expert, I have had several "interesting" experiences (no, I'm not a
walking disaster!) For example, I once supervised a science
theater. You know the kind, big demos that involve fairly flashy
stuff. We always, ALWAYS made it clear that these activities should
NOT be attempted at home for safety reasons. There was always some
kid who would do it anyway, and then we'd get the call from the
parents. We had to start posting warning signs, making opening
warning speeches, and came close to not doing the demos at all. (NB
- where were the parents when their kids were doing all this???) Not
good.
Beryl
At 8:23 AM -0500 9/20/06, jeff courtman wrote:
>ISEN-ASTC-L is a service of the Association of Science-Technology Centers
>Incorporated, a worldwide network of science museums and related institutions.
>*****************************************************************************
>
>the balloon thing got me thinking:
>
>liability is a bugaboo for science centers and the like; we encourage the
>sort of activity (i hope) that leads to more excited play by children. yet,
>surprisingly, if i understand correctly, our liability carriers don't charge
>us an arm and a leg for coverage. but accidents do happen and if you're in
>the field long enough you will likely witness either a claim or a lawsuit or
>some other unpleasantness (or maybe i'm unlucky).
>
>I would love to hear from experts in the field about the questions of
>liability, and how we might focus our institutional thinking without
>becoming paranoid to the point of silliness (Warning: your morning coffee
>may be extremely hot. Do not spill it on your legs. Do not pour on your
>pets or your coworkers.)
>
>If there's interest from others, i'll see what i can do....
>
>Jeff Courtman
>Exhibits & Special Projects Coordinator
>251.208.6851
>Exploreum Science Center
>www.exploreum.net <http://www.exploreum.net/>
>
>
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--
Beryl Rosenthal, Ph.D.
Director of Exhibitions and Public Programs
MIT Museum
265 Massachusetts Ave.
Cambridge, MA 02139
Tel: 617-452-2111
Fax: 617-253-8994
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"A great place to explore ideas, invention, and innovation:
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More information about the Informal Science Education Network and the
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