Three Probable Risks That Might Take Place In A University

Three Probable Risks That Might Take Place In A Univer

This essay discusses three probable risks that might occur at the University of North Texas (UNT), providing definitions, relevant statistics in the United States, and real-life examples related to UNT where applicable. The selected risks are hazing, tailgating-related injuries at football games, and auto liability involving university employees. Understanding these risks is essential for developing effective risk management strategies to safeguard students, staff, and the university’s assets.

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Hazing constitutes one of the most severe risks faced by universities, including the University of North Texas. According to UNT Policy Number 18.1.12, hazing is defined as any intentional, reckless, or knowing act directed against a student, occurring on or off campus, that endangers mental or physical health during initiation or membership processes of student organizations. The prevalence of hazing is alarmingly high across American colleges, with the HazingPrevention.org report indicating that approximately 55% of college students involved in clubs, teams, and organizations experience hazing practices. Given UNT hosts around 350 student organizations, this statistic suggests that thousands of students could be exposed to hazing risks, which could result in severe injury or death. For example, in 2003, UNT suspended the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity for four years due to hazing violations, including alcohol abuse and physical assaults against pledges. An incident involved a freshman pledge found unconscious and transported to a hospital, exemplifying the real dangers associated with hazing activities at UNT (UNT News, 2003). This demonstrates how hazing can escalate to health crises, legal liabilities, and reputational damages for the institution.

Tailgating during football games presents another significant risk for the university, leading to injuries and safety incidents. Tailgating involves fans gathering in parking lots to celebrate before football games, often involving alcohol consumption and large crowds. According to the National Safety Council, tailgating-related accidents and injuries have seen a rise, with approximately 2,000 tailgating-related incidents annually across the U.S. This includes slips, falls, fights, and alcohol-related accidents—some tragic enough to cause fatalities. At UNT, football games attract thousands of attendees, creating a scenario ripe for safety issues, especially with the presence of alcohol and large crowds. Although specific statistics on UNT’s tailgating incidents are scarce, incidents at other universities highlight the potential risks. For example, at a university in Texas, a student was severely injured when intoxicated tailgaters fell from a platform, emphasizing the importance of campus safety measures and enforcement to prevent similar incidents at UNT (Smith, 2018). Risk mitigation strategies, such as increased security, designated alcohol zones, and crowd management, are critical to prevent injuries during tailgating events.

Auto liability involving university employees is another prevalent risk at UNT, particularly concerning staff and faculty who operate university vehicles. Auto liability refers to the legal and financial responsibilities arising from vehicle accidents caused by employees while conducting university business. Statistically, in the U.S., auto accidents account for over 20% of all vehicular fatalities annually, with billions in damages and litigation costs (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 2021). For universities, employee auto incidents can lead to significant legal liabilities, insurance claims, and reputational impact. At UNT, while specific data on incidents involving employees is limited, cases have arisen where staff operated university vehicles negligently, resulting in accidents and insurance claims. For instance, a faculty member involved in an auto accident while traveling for university business led to a substantial liability claim, highlighting the importance of driver safety policies, adequate insurance coverage, and regular training for employees operating vehicles on behalf of the university (UNT Risk Management, 2020). Proper risk management procedures, including driver screening and incident reporting protocols, are essential in reducing such liabilities.

References

  • "UNT Policy Office." University of North Texas. N.p., 2013. Web. 4 Oct 2013. Link to source.
  • "Hazing Information." Hazing Prevention. N.p., 2013. Web. 4 Oct 2013. Link to source.
  • "UNT and Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity Inc. suspend campus chapter for 4 years for hazing policy violations." UNT News. N.p., 2013. Web. 4 Oct 2013. Link to source.
  • National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. (2021). Traffic Safety Facts Annual Report. NHTSA.
  • Smith, J. (2018). Campus safety and tailgating incidents. Journal of College Safety, 15(3), 45-52.
  • Johnson, L. (2020). Risk management in higher education. Risk & Insurance, 37(4), 22-27.
  • Williams, R. (2019). Hazard prevention strategies at universities. Safety Science, 115, 41-50.
  • Brown, D. (2017). Analyzing vehicular risks among university staff. Journal of University Safety, 14(2), 34-39.
  • Lee, K. (2022). Best practices for reducing campus hazards. Campus Safety Journal, 25(1), 10-15.
  • O’Connor, P. (2019). Legal liability and universities: auto accidents and insurance. Educational Law Journal, 42(6), 112-119.

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