FBC


Happenings UPFRONT


ticipating in the Canadian Industry Forum panel presentation at the can- fitpro world fitness expo in Toronto, at the invitation of Fitness Industry Council of Canada, on August 12 at 4:30pm. Her presentation will inform fit-


B


ness club owners, operators and per- sonal trainers about their rights and obligations under the Consumer Protection Act and explain what to expect if their operations are inspect- ed by the Ministry of Government and Consumer Services. Helpful


arbara Allan, the program manager from the Ontario Ministry of Government and Consumer Services, will be par-


8 Happenings | 13 Conference | 16 Q & A 18 HR | 20 What’s New


Canadian Industry Forum at the World Fitness Expo


Learn about the audit inspection process and how to run a fair and better business


information will be provided regarding contract requirements, cancellation rights and unfair practices in accor- dance with Ontario consumer protec- tion laws. This session is free for all FIC mem-


bers. FIC members do not have to be delegates to the world fitness expo to enter the Canadian Industry Forum. They may attend by simply pre-reg- istering with FIC executive director Trisha Sarker at tsarker@ficdn.ca.


Why is This Session Important? Since February 2016, the Ontario


government has been contacting fitness clubs to determine if their


membership application/contract is consistent with the province’s con- sumer protection laws. This is due to the Ontario Ministry receiving inspec- tion rights on various facilities–fit- ness clubs being one of them. In the past, consumer complaints regarding the fitness industry have been a pub- lic issue, and as a result, the Ministry’s inspection process has begun with fit- ness facilities. During an inspection, an inspector


visits and completes an audit (based on the consumer protection laws). If any part of the inspection is not met, the club has 30 days to comply with the law(s) before receiving a fine. Knowing and complying ahead of


time can save your club(s) from a diffi- cult inspection and ensure that every- thing runs smoothly. FIC has been working with the


“During an inspection, an


inspector visits and completes an audit. If


any part of the


inspection is not met, the club has 30 days to


comply with the law(s) before receiving a fine.”


8 Fitness Business Canada July/August 2016


Ontario Ministry of Government and Consumer Services to develop a plan to help owners and operators obtain the information they require about contract disclosures and how to deal with the Licence Appeal Tribunal processes.


Important to note It is important to recognize that


each province has its own consumer protection laws. Ontario has started the inspection process; however, we believe that other provinces may fol- low. As a fitness industry provider and professional, it is essential that you fol- low and comply with the laws associ- ated with your region. For direction and assistance, please email Trisha Sarker at tsarker@ficdn.ca.


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