Blacksmithing & Bladesmithing Participant Agreement
Acknowledgment of Risks, Safety Rules & Limited Release
Please read this agreement carefully before signing. It applies to blacksmithing and bladesmithing classes provided by Jason Fleck, operating as DHV Forge / Da Hawaii Viking (“the Provider”).
Each participant must complete a separate form before participating.
A form may be completed before a class is scheduled. If a signed online form has not been completed, a paper form must be completed before class begins.
1. Understanding the Risks
Blacksmithing and bladesmithing involve hot metal, open flames, sharp edges, heavy tools, and powered equipment. Serious injury is possible. Risks associated with these activities include:
Burns from flames, sparks, hot scale, tools, and metal that may remain dangerously hot even when it does not appear to be glowing.
Cuts and punctures from sharp metal, tools, and finished blades.
Eye injuries from sparks, scale, dust, and flying debris.
Injuries from hammering, dropped objects, moving equipment, and contact with grinders, sanding belts, or rotating machinery.
Exposure to noise, fumes, and airborne dust.
Muscle strain, fatigue, heat-related illness, and slips or trips in the workshop.
Safety instruction, supervision, and protective equipment help reduce these risks, but cannot eliminate every risk inherent in the activity.
2. Participant Safety Responsibilities
I agree to:
Attend the safety briefing and follow the instructor’s directions throughout the class.
Closed-toe shoes are required. Long pants are preferred. Participants choosing shorts acknowledge the increased exposure of bare skin to sparks, hot scale, and burns. Clothing must be suitable for work around heat and sparks; avoid synthetic fabrics that can melt.
Secure long hair and remove or secure loose clothing, jewelry, and other items that could become caught in equipment.
Wear the protective equipment required for each task, including eye, hearing, and respiratory protection as instructed.
Use tools and equipment only with the instructor’s permission and instruction.
Refrain from participating while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or medication.
Tell the instructor about any limitation that could affect my ability to participate safely. I may discuss this privately before class.
Report injuries, unsafe conditions, dizziness, fatigue, or other discomfort immediately, and stop work when instructed.
I understand that I may pause or stop participating at any time. The instructor may modify or stop an activity, or end my participation, if safety instructions are not followed or continued participation would be unsafe.
3. Participants Ages 12–17
Participants must be at least 12 years old.
A participant ages 12–17 must have a parent or legal guardian present throughout the class. The parent or legal guardian must provide their full name and sign this agreement for the minor.
By signing for a minor, I confirm that I am the participant’s parent or legal guardian, consent to their participation, and have reviewed the risks and safety rules with them. I agree to remain present throughout the class and support the instructor’s safety directions.
An accompanying adult who also participates must complete a separate form for themselves.
4. Voluntary Participation & Limited Release
I understand the disclosed risks and choose to participate voluntarily, or consent to the participation of the minor identified in this form.
To the extent permitted by Hawaiʻi law, I assume the inherent risks of the activity and release the Provider from claims for injuries or losses resulting from those inherent risks.
For purposes of this agreement, inherent risks are risks associated with the nature of the activity that remain despite reasonable care to eliminate or minimize them. This release does not waive claims arising from the Provider’s negligence, gross negligence, reckless or intentional misconduct, or any liability that cannot lawfully be waived.
The Provider remains responsible for exercising reasonable care and providing appropriate safety instruction.
5. Acknowledgment & Signature
By signing below, I confirm that I have read and understand this agreement, have had the opportunity to ask questions, and agree to follow its safety requirements.
If I am signing for a participant ages 12–17, I am signing in my capacity as their parent or legal guardian.
Please enter the participant’s name and age below. Participants age 18 or older sign for themselves. For participants ages 12–17, the parent or legal guardian enters their own full name and signs the parent/guardian signature field.
