Boy Scouts of America

Policies, Guidelines, and Model Plans

Policies

Scouter Code of Conduct
This document provides a resource that clearly defines the desired behavior for adults involved in Scouting.

Camp Health Model Policy and Procedures Manual, No. 680-048
The model policy and procedures in this document are intended to provide councils with a starting point for the creation of their own policies and procedures for the operation of a camp health lodge.

Cave Safely, Cave Softly 
Caving can be an exciting unit activity, but requires knowledge and preparation. This guide can help.

Guide to Safe Scouting 
The Guide to Safe Scouting is the unit leaders’ guide to current policies and procedures.

Policy on the Storage, Handling, and Use of Chemical Fuels and Equipment 
This policy directs Boy Scouts of America members how to safely store, handle, and use chemical fuels and equipment.

Guidelines

Age-Appropriate Guidelines for Scouting Activities 
This chart provides an at-a-glance reference to activity guidelines that are based on the mental, physical, emotional, and social maturity of youth members.

SAFE Project Tool Use
An at-a-glance reference for service projects. The use of tools, by any youth or adult, requires training in the proper use of those tools before a project starts. It also requires continuous, qualified adult supervision and discipline during the project. Manufacturers’ literature and age and skill restrictions shall supersede the recommendations in the publication. If there is a conflict, leaders shall follow the most restrictive guidelines. 

Chemical Labeling for Councils and Camps
Guidance to camp assessment teams and others on Chemical Container Labeling HCS 2012.

Communicable Disease Guidelines
These guidelines direct councils on how to prepare for and deal with situations involving infectious diseases.

Council Program Guidelines: Regarding Response to Adverse Heat and Humidity Conditions, No. 680-030 
These guidelines address various factors related to heat and humidity conditions that require special attention. The Word file is offered to assist program leadership in customizing it to fit specific local conditions. 

The Driver’s Pledge 
This pledge outlines five key points that a driver should attend in order to safely convey Scouts of their outings.

Energy Drink Statement
This statement from the BSA Health and Safety Committee outlines the BSA’s recommendation for the use of energy drinks during Scouting activities.

Enterprise Risk Management Committee Guidebook
This all-in-one guidebook was produced to give council-level committees direction for essential enterprise risk management functions. You’ll find information about risk assessment strategies and tools, professional resources, and more.

Guidelines for Managing Food Allergies
Millions of children and adults in the United States have been diagnosed with specific food allergies that can be life-threatening. Initial food allergy reactions can occur at any time, even in previously undiagnosed individuals. Developing food allergy prevention policies will help camp staff minimize exposure for those with known food allergies and be prepared for the possibility of a food allergy reaction in any camper or staff member.

Medication Use in Scouting
The guidance on medication use in Scouting within this document has been developed for Scouts, parents or guardians, and adult leaders. Planning ahead is a key component.

OSHA Laws That Affect Council Offices and Camps
The information in this document is provided as general guidance and does not cover all potential safety and health hazards workers may be exposed to in the council office or at camp.

Prevention of Communicable Diseases in Scouting: Recommendations for Unit and Council Event Leaders

Service Project Planning Guidelines
A checklist to help you plan that next service project. Includes reference to the Age Guidelines for Tool Use and Work at Elevations or Excavations below.

Model Plans

Example Written Emergency Action and Fire Prevention Plans, No. 680-029  
An example EAP/FPP that the council office/camp may choose to use or modify to fit its council office/camp emergency procedures. 

Model Bloodborne Pathogens Exposure Control Plan, No. 680-035
The model for an exposure control plan includes elements required by the OSHA Occupational Exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens Standard (29 CFR 1910.1030). The intent of this model is to provide your council/camp with an easy-to-use format that may be used as a template to develop a written exposure control plan tailored to the requirements of your council.

Model Hazard Communication (HAZCOM) PlanNo. 680-034
The model for a hazard communication (HAZCOM) program includes elements required by the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200) and the modifications to conform to the Globally Harmonized System (GHS). The intent of this model is to provide your council/camp with an easy-to-use format that may be used as a template to develop a written hazard communication program plan tailored to the requirements of your council.

Artwork

Other Resources