1. What is BASE?
In late 2018, USA Baseball launched BASE (Baseball Athlete Safety Education) as its zero-tolerance campaign for any type of abuse within the sport of baseball. There are four components of BASE: reporting, background checks, education and training, and minor athlete safety policies.
2. What is BASE Organizational Compliance?
BASE Organizational Compliance satisfies the requirements for Senate Bill 534 for participating youth sport organizations by offering a standard background check and abuse prevention training services. Please note that BASE Compliance is different from SafeSport Compliance. If your organization is interested in utilizing USA Baseball’s BASE Organizational Compliance program, please fill out the application at https://usabdevelops.com/activities/17089.
3. Who should I contact for help with BASE compliance?
If you need assistance with the process, are having technical issues, or have questions about your organization’s promo code, please email develops@usabaseball.com.
4. How long does BASE compliance last and how do I renew it?
Both the background check and abuse awareness certification expire annually. To remain compliant, you must complete both components once every 12 months.
5. How long does it take to complete BASE requirements?
The abuse awareness course typically takes around 30 minutes. Completing the background check only takes about 10 minutes, though processing may take up to 7 business days depending on your county’s volume.
6. How can I view or download my BASE compliance certificate?
Once both requirements are fulfilled, your certificate will appear in your certification dashboard at https://usabdevelops.com/my-account/certs.
7. What is included in the “Abuse Awareness for Adults” course?
This 30-minute free online course teaches coaches how to recognize and report misconduct. It focuses on athlete safety, setting appropriate behavior expectations, and creating a positive environment. Certification lasts one year.
8. Who must complete BASE Compliance?
Any coach, board member, or adult volunteer who works with players in BASE-affiliated organizations are required to complete both the background check and abuse awareness training annually.
9. How do I become BASE compliant on USA Baseball Develops?
- Log in or register at usabdevelops.com or via the USA Baseball app.
- Select your organization from the dropdown menu and click Join.
- Enroll in the BASE Compliance certification.
- Complete the free Abuse Awareness for Adults course.
- Purchase or access the USA Baseball – Standard Package background check. If you haven't completed it before, apply your organization’s promo code if applicable.
10. What does the background check involve and how much does it cost?
The Standard Background Check searches six databases and government records. It costs approximately $10 and must be completed annually. Some organizations provide promo codes to cover the cost.
11. What if my organization isn’t listed?
If your organization is not listed, it means they are not part of the BASE Organizational Compliance program. Organization admin can fill out an application at https://usabdevelops.com/activities/17089. If you would like to refer an organization to the BASE program, please submit a referral at https://usabdevelops.com/challenges/733.
12. What is the difference between BASE compliance and SafeSport compliance?
As a national governing body, USA Baseball requires that all staff, coaches, umpires, athletic trainers and adult participants are compliant per the standards set forth by the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee and the US Center for SafeSport. The compliance designation consists of a comprehensive background check, annual SafeSport training, and signing off on the Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies (MAAPPs). These items must be renewed annually.
BASE compliance allows travel ball organizations and coaches to be in compliance with Senate Bill 534 through the completion of a Standard Background check and Abuse Awareness training. BASE compliance will not satisfy USA Baseball Event Compliance requirements.