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Monthly Archives

December 2011

Dec 01
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DECIDING ON SEPARATE RENTAL CAR COVERAGE

By Personal Perspective

Insuring a rental car is a process that confuses nearly everyone. Most people don’t consider this type of insurance until the issue is brought up by a sales representative at the checkout counter. Although rental insurance might sound like a good idea, it’s important to know what is covered and what kind of coverage might already exist before purchasing it. It’s best to call an agent and a credit card company before purchasing rental car coverage.

When calling the insurance company, ask how much coverage exists for a current vehicle. If the rental car is used for recreation, the same deductibles and coverage held on a personal vehicle usually apply to a rental car. If the car is used for business purposes, the same coverage doesn’t exist. Vehicle owners who drop their collision or comprehensive coverage to save money are not covered if the rental vehicle is damaged in an accident or stolen. It’s important to ask if an insurance company covers administrative fees, towing charges and loss of use for a vehicle. There are several insurance companies that offer riders for such coverage, which makes it less expensive to purchase coverage from the rental car company. However, it’s important to remember that diminished value isn’t covered by insurers in many states.

Credit card companies and the banks they use differ in the terms of coverage they offer for rental cars. For example, a gold card might offer less coverage than a platinum card would. Usually loss and damage are the only coverage provisions offered by credit card companies for rental cars. Damages to other vehicles, property of others and personal belongings are usually not covered. Although some companies provide coverage for towing, they usually don’t provide coverage for administrative fees or diminished values. It’s also important to keep in mind that many credit card companies have changed their policies in recent years, so cardholders may not have the amount of coverage they originally had. To learn about the type of coverage available from a credit card company, call the toll-free number on the back of the card. Be sure to ask for written information to be sent by mail or email. As a general rule, credit card company coverage should be used as secondary coverage to temporary insurance from the rental company or from personal auto insurance. If there are multiple credit cards available, call each company to find out which one offers the best provisions.

There are usually several different types of coverage offered at the rental car counter. Loss damage waivers, which are commonly called LDWs, are not technically insurance products. However, they do clear renters of the financial responsibility of theft or damage to the rental car. LDWs may also provide coverage for loss of use, administrative fees and towing. There are several incidents that may void LDWs. It’s important to understand the contract terms thoroughly before purchasing this coverage. Be sure to check with an agent before buying this type of insurance in order to avoid duplicate provisions. Liability coverage offered by rental companies must be in accordance with individual laws for the state in which the company is located. As a general rule, these amounts are minimal and provide limited coverage. Umbrella policies are much smarter investments. Speak with an agent to learn more about umbrella policies. Personal accident and personal effects coverage options also exist. They provide limited coverage for auto accidents and loss or damage of personal belongings.

Dec 01
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FILING A HOMEOWNERS CLAIM

By Personal Perspective

It’s necessary to file a claim with the insurance company if a home is destroyed by a storm or a visitor is injured. It’s important to keep in mind that a Homeowners policy is a contract held between an insurer and an individual. This means that there are specific procedures and rules to follow. It’s important to read an insurance policy thoroughly to understand individual responsibilities completely. There are a few pointers that every homeowner should remember.

Immediately report all crimes to the police. It’s important to notify the police of any vandalism, burglary or other crime. Homeowners should also obtain the names of any police officers involved in the report or investigation. It’s also important to write down the names of all law enforcement officers after speaking with them on the phone.

Make all necessary temporary repairs. Don’t shell out thousands of dollars for full repairs to a damaged property. It’s best to pay only for supplies to repair or sustain something temporarily. For example, if a window is broken, it’s best to pay for boards and nails or tape and cardboard to repair it temporarily. It would be pointless to pay for an entirely new window until after the claim is honored. Homeowners should save all receipts of items purchased for making temporary repairs.

Call an agent immediately. After calling the police for any crime-related issues, it’s important to call an insurance agent. If the nature of the claim doesn’t involve a crime, phone an agent immediately after discovering the issue that will become a claim. Since there are time limits for some claims, it’s important to follow this advice. Ask the agent what steps must be taken. Agents are also able to provide advice regarding how long the claims process will take.

List all damaged items. Don’t discard any items that are damaged before the insurance adjuster is able to survey them. Photographs and videotapes are also acceptable forms of proof in most cases. After making an inventory, make a copy for the insurance adjuster.

Obtain the necessary claim forms. After receiving notification of a claim, an insurance company must send the proper forms to an individual within a specific time period. The best way to avoid delays is to ensure that the paperwork is filled out correctly.

Keep all receipts after relocating. Not everyone has to relocate after filing a claim. However, if the dwelling is uninhabitable, it’s important to remember that Homeowners insurance has provisions for living expenses to some extent. It’s best to keep receipts in order to show written proof of expenditures.

Homeowners should follow each of these steps carefully. After filing a claim, it’s best to have an insurance adjuster come out as quickly as possible to survey the damage. Most insurance companies arrange for adjusters to visit a residence. To learn more about this process or to obtain answers to other questions, contact us.

Dec 01
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PROTECTING A HOME FROM MOLD

By Personal Perspective

It’s important to have a plan and routine in order to protect a home from mold. This involves constantly looking for watermarks on ceilings or walls, signs of mold growth and musty smells. If mold is caught early enough, it can be removed with a simple cleaning solution of bleach and water. However, preventing mold from growing again requires that the source of moisture be eliminated. The area where the mold started growing must also be dried properly. In some cases, the surface or area might simply need to be replaced. After cleaning the mold and attacking the source, be sure to place all rags, clothing, materials, paper and other debris affected in a plastic bag to be thrown in the garbage.

Mold is similar to insect infestations and rot in the respect that it is usually not covered under a Homeowners insurance policy. Standard policies afford coverage for sudden or accidental disasters. However, they don’t offer coverage for cleaning or maintaining a home. If the mold is a direct result of a burst pipe or other covered peril, the insurance company may cover the cost to eliminate the mold.

Since mold is also dangerous, it’s important to tackle the problem immediately if it arises. Mold can cause family members in the home to become sick. Symptoms are usually similar to allergic reactions or hay fever. The best way to avoid all of these problems is to take steps to prevent mold. The following steps can be taken to prevent mold from growing.

Reduce Humidity Level. It’s best to keep the humidity level between 30% and 60% by utilizing dehumidifiers and air conditioners. Be sure to place exhaust fans in all bathrooms and kitchens. If carpet is desired, avoid installing it in bathrooms or kitchens. It’s best to have carpet only in rooms that aren’t exposed to moisture on a regular basis. Another important thing to remember is to avoid letting water pool and collect under house plants.

Check & Replace Hoses. Be sure to regularly inspect pipes, fittings and hoses. It’s best to replace hoses to appliances that use water every five years. At about $5 or $10 per piece, the cost of replacing hoses is much less expensive than dealing with a major mold problem.

Use Mold-Reducing Products. Clean all bathrooms in the home with bleach and water regularly. There are also several other cleaning products available that are designed to kill mold. It’s a good idea to add mold inhibitors to paint before applying it to the walls or doors.

Exercise Caution after Water Damage. If at any time a large amount of water comes into contact with the home’s interior, it’s important to ensure that carpets, upholstery and any other surfaces that hold water are dried thoroughly and promptly. Everything should completely dry within 24 to 48 hours following the initial water contact. Items that can’t be dried should be discarded. If there is standing water, remove it promptly. In addition to promoting mold growth, standing water is a prime breeding ground for microorganisms. After all areas have been dried, wash and disinfect them well. This includes the surfaces of appliances, closets, walls, shelves, floors, heating systems and cooling systems.

Check the Roof & Gutters. Another way to prevent mold is to check the roof and gutters frequently. Clear the gutters of any debris. If there are any leaks in the roof, have them repaired immediately to avoid water seeping into the home.

Although mold is problematic, it can be prevented with proper care. For any questions about mold and the specific terms of an individual Homeowners insurance policy, contact one of our agents today.

Dec 01
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HOW TO BEST HANDLE CLAIMS

By Business Protection Bulletin

Whether claims involve liability, property, workers compensation or other types of insurance, policies outline the obligations of the policyholder in the event they must file a claim. Regardless of the type of claim, policyholders are required to make contact with their insurers immediately.

Property Claims. Policies have specific wording regarding the obligations of a policyholder in the event a claim must be made. The Business Owners Policy, which is also called a BOP, requires policyholders to take the following steps:

  • Report legal violations to the police immediately.
  • Make immediate contact with a personal insurance agent.
  • Resume the maximum volume of regular business operations as soon as possible.
  • Make temporary repairs and take any other necessary steps to protect property from further damage. It’s also important to save the damaged parts if they must be replaced. In some cases, the claims adjuster will want to examine them.

Business Income Claims. In order to establish an amount of insurance benefits for a policy that provides business income coverage, BOP holders need to keep specific business records. The following are required records:

  • Expense and income information must reflect recent profit and loss statements and income tax forms.
  • Historical sales records for the company must be kept.
  • Businesses must keep a thorough record of extra expenses required to resume business operations after a covered loss is experienced. Some examples include temporary equipment rental, temporary rental space and moving expenses.
  • Receipts or other records for damaged inventory are necessary to replace lost items.
  • Any other business records that might assist in determining a company’s projected profits if the loss hadn’t occurred are also helpful.

Workers Compensation Claims. For a workers compensation claim, it’s important to notify the insurer immediately after an employee suffers a work-related injury. Notifying the insurer immediately is the best way to help the employee recover quickly, get through rehabilitation and return to work. Employers must comply with the insurer’s investigation following a claim. This means that records must also be provided if requested.

Liability Claims. Contact an insurer immediately if a person threatens to file a lawsuit against the company. In some cases, there might be a good reason for an individual to pursue a lawsuit. However, they might not choose to do so. For example, if a person falls on a business property, they might or might not sue. It’s important to report the incident and possibility of a lawsuit to an insurer immediately. Be sure to include specific details, contact witnesses and make necessary followups. Business owners shouldn’t spend any money on injured persons aside from basic first aid care if they claim to be injured. If the individual sues, it’s important to cooperate in the investigation.

Vehicle Claims. If employees drive business vehicles, they should be instructed on the proper responses to accidents. Employers should put an accident kit in each company vehicle to ensure that a proper response is possible. The police must be notified immediately after an accident occurs. Employees should obtain the names of all other individuals and witnesses involved. Contact the insurer immediately to report the accident. There is probably specific information regarding how policyholders should proceed if they’re unhappy with the way a claim is handled. It’s important to read the instructions carefully and follow procedures. If there are any issues or concerns, contact one of our agents to discuss them.

Dec 01
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MAKING CONNECTIONS AND GROWING YOUR BUSINESS WITH LINKEDIN

By Business Protection Bulletin

If you are not taking full advantage of LinkedIn to make connections and market your business, you are truly missing out on a great opportunity. For those of you who are not familiar with LinkedIn, it is the social media equivalent of Facebook for the business world and is a great tool for professional networking.

To get started on LinkedIn, you will need to create a profile. Your profile should be as complete as possible, as this can also double up as your online resume. Using the email address you provide, LinkedIn helps you find connections right away by matching your email contacts with LinkedIn’s member database. The best way to get started with networking on LinkedIn is to start building up your connections by adding people you know first. LinkedIn also has a number of other tools and options to allow you to search for connections. Making connections with those you know is important on LinkedIn because many people often turn to LinkedIn to make contacts as they search for services, business deals, employees and a number of other needs. You are also branding yourself as a professional with your profile in a convenient place where people are searching to make business connections.

Once you have completed your profile, you can also create a profile for your company. This will allow you to showcase your company information, together with the products or services that you provide. What is nice about the company page is the ability to add not just your company website, but any other website you have for each respective product and service you provide. Adding a company page will not only help you within the LinkedIn network, it will help you beyond the network, as LinkedIn ranks very high in search engine search results. This can help you in two ways. First, if someone is trying to find your company, chances are your LinkedIn company profile will appear on the first page of search results. It might also benefit your own website search engine result ranking because you are now listed on and linked to by a reputable, high-ranking site, which search engine algorithms pick up and use to add points to your website ranking.

Another popular place on LinkedIn is the tens of thousands of professional groups on the site. Most of these groups revolve around a discussion forum. LinkedIn often recommends groups as you browse the site, based on your job title or industry information in your profile, but you can also search for groups by going to the group tab and using a number of different options to search for relevant professional groups in your industry or an industry you work with. By initiating or participating in a discussion, you can build your reputation, most especially if your discussion draws a lot of interest and you demonstrate a certain expertise. People often make contact with you from these discussions, which could result in a key contract or a potential client. You can also create your own group; however, you will need to invest time into inviting people and building the group.

For those who don’t have a lot of time to invest, yet want to promote their business, LinkedIn has a similar program to Google AdWords called “LinkedIn Ads.” This is a pay-per-click (PPC) or “impression” based advertising structure that is very simple to set up. You can add a headline and two additional lines about your product or service. LinkedIn allows you to target your ads specifically toward the audience you want to reach, so the ad will only appear on those types of profiles you identify. The system allows you to choose by industry, position, age group, region and a few other criteria. The nice thing about this is you can drill down and pay for ads only viewed and potentially clicked by your specific target audience, thereby saving money on advertising and getting a higher return on your advertising investment.

LinkedIn has a lot to offer, and without a presence on this system you are left out of a huge network where a significant amount of business takes place. In addition, your key clients might be on LinkedIn, and keeping your name in front of them is important in maintaining a relationship and a presence with those clients. To begin using LinkedIn, go to www.linkedin.com and walk through the steps to get your profile up within minutes.

Dec 01
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THE IMPORTANCE OF EMPLOYMENT PRACTICES LIABILITY INSURANCE

By Business Protection Bulletin

Since Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 passed, the issue of employees’ rights continues to be controversial. Employers involved in interstate commerce are prohibited from discriminating against applicants.

Understanding How Fast Lawsuit Risks Are Increasing. As more laws are enacted for workplaces, employers face a higher risk of lawsuits. The likelihood of discrimination lawsuits is especially high. In order to minimize this risk, employers need to create a workplace that offers workers equal rights, opportunities, job access, working conditions, job security and opportunities for advancement. They must also strive to create a workplace that is in compliance with federal employment guidelines for mature and disabled workers. During the period between 1992 and 2004, the number of individual discrimination charges jumped from 72,302 to 79,432 annually. These figures, which were collected by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, include all types of discrimination filings.

The 2010 Wal-Mart Example. Claims of workplace discrimination hit a record high in 2010. The total number of claims was 99,922 during the fiscal year. This number gained national attention after the story of a class-action discrimination lawsuit was filed against Wal-Mart. The U.S. Supreme Court threw out the case. This case stated that more than 1.5 million female workers faced workplace discrimination in the aspects of pay and promotions. The Court ruled that the case couldn’t continue because of the varied circumstances of the plaintiffs, which lacked uniformity. This was the most high-profile employee discrimination case of 2010. It was also the largest class-action lawsuit in U.S. history.

The Small Business Perspective. Wal-Mart had a policy against uniform employment practices. Since duties were delegated to individuals in specific branch locations, the case was overthrown. Smaller companies need to take the examples of larger companies by ensuring that they’re properly protected from such lawsuits. On a smaller scale, discrimination lawsuits could devastate or bankrupt a small business. When employers have more personnel policies in place, there are fewer lawsuits filed. This is especially true if the policies are outlined well in a handbook and given to new employees. Educating new employees thoroughly is important. It’s also essential to fully educate employees who already work for the company at the time such changes are made. However, even if the law is interpreted carefully, there are still times when employees may allege discrimination. During such times, employers are always thankful and reassured that they possess Employment Practices Liability Insurance (EPLI).

Importance of Employment Practices Liability Insurance. Most people aren’t aware just how important this type of coverage is. The importance of it can be discovered by carefully examining the workplace. Most workplaces have an ethnic and racial composition that is constantly changing and evolving. In addition to workplaces, the entire country is changing because of these factors. Cultural aspects have become one of the most common roots of discrimination cases. Although America is known for high levels of educated workers, discrimination continues to thrive among employees. We are taught in school to tolerate and accept other cultures. However, exercising equal treatment in the workplace seems to be a problem for many. In addition to this, sexual harassment, handicap bias actions and age discrimination lawsuits are common. Workplaces facing these issues are finding themselves in serious legal trouble.

The Solutions. In order to avoid legal battles, it’s important to have EPLI. Although many employers think it’s too expensive, it can save a company from going under if a lawsuit is filed. Have one of our professionals perform a risk assessment to determine how much insurance is needed. In addition to having ample coverage, it’s important to implement policies in the workplace that encourage equality and discourage discrimination. Information needs to be made available to workers to make them aware of what discrimination is and how to avoid it. Encourage workers to treat one another with equal and mutual respect. The press and human rights organizations are becoming more vigilant about spotting discrimination in multinational companies. With so many scrutinizing eyes watching, it’s important to assess the workplace regularly to ensure that discrimination risks are low. Educate executives on proper hiring, firing and disciplinary guidelines.

Two factors are contributing to the rising number of lawsuits. First, employees are being educated about their discrimination rights more thoroughly. Second, financial hardships caused by the recession are making employees desperate enough to file claims that might not be legitimate. Regardless of whether claims are legitimate or not, it’s essential to have EPLI to protect your business.

Dec 01
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INSURANCE FOR SMALL CONSTRUCTION BUSINESSES

By Construction Insurance Bulletin

Small construction businesses require several of the same types of insurance coverage that larger businesses need. In addition to this, there are types of coverage available that are specific to the construction industry.

Property Coverage
Property insurance might be needed to provide coverage for any real property owned by the company. This coverage might also be needed to cover any personal property that is used for the business. The largest amount of property loss could involve equipment that is taken to varying sites and valuable machinery. Standard property insurance doesn’t provide coverage for such items. It’s necessary to purchase floaters from contract insurers for such items. Speak with our agents to learn what types of floaters are available and to determine which ones are the best choice for an individual business. It’s important to keep in mind that a building has a value that increases steadily as it’s being constructed. In order to ensure that it is covered properly, it’s best to purchase a special policy. This policy is called Builders Risk Insurance.

Liability Coverage
Every small business needs liability coverage. In today’s litigious world, nearly anyone can file a claim stating that they were injured by or at a specific business. Since this is common, it’s important to be prepared to face such a situation by purchasing a good liability policy. Some small construction businesses might want to have their subcontractors purchase Owners and Contractors Protective Liability Coverage, which is also called OCP. This type of insurance covers a business owner or business property owner from liability resulting from negligence of their independent contractors or subcontractors. The subcontractor or contractor is the actual purchaser of this policy. However, the benefits and protection are credited to the business owner or business property owner for whom the contractor agrees to work.

Business Vehicle Coverage
Personal car insurance policies often cover some business use of a vehicle. However, if the vehicle is used primarily for business, it’s unlikely that a personal auto policy will provide the same coverage. The policy will never provide coverage for a vehicle that is owned by a business. It’s important to have business vehicles insured with a policy that is specific for businesses. If a personal vehicle is involved in an accident resulting in injuries to others while being used for business, the injured parties can sue the insured individual personally. However, most policies don’t provide enough coverage to compensate in such a situation. Contact us to determine what amounts should be purchased for an individual business.

Dec 01
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ARTISAN CONTRACTORS INSURANCE

By Construction Insurance Bulletin

Plumbers, electricians, carpenters, tree surgeons and roofers who perform skilled work on a customer’s premises are just a few examples of artisan contractors. These workers are also called casual contractors. Piano tuners, interior decorators, exterminators and other skilled service providers are also considered artisan contractors. These contractors require special insurance for their tools and equipment, which are commonly moved from one site to another until each job is finished. The most affordable and efficient way for an artisan contractor to get liability and property coverage is to obtain a Business Owners Policy that is tailored to fit individual needs. Although they might be marketed under varying names, such policies usually have similar terms.

Property owned by the business and real property are covered by the BOP. The property must be located at the address of the business described in the policy. Businesses that lease or rent their locations have coverage from the BOP for tenants’ betterments and improvements. These include any installations, additions or alterations that cannot legally be taken away from the premises. Equipment that moves from one site to another and valuable machinery are items that pose the greatest risk for a significant loss. Such items are not covered under a standard property insurance policy. These items are classified as movable property, which means special contracts are required to obtain insurance. These special contracts are called floaters.

Various types of equipment and machinery are covered during transit with an installer’s floater. They’re also covered during testing. In some cases, building materials might also be covered. Policies may be written to include coverage on a reporting form or for a single job. This means that the contractor provides information to the insurer regarding each new contract. Tools and equipment floaters provide coverage for the property that is insured. Coverage is extended to any location where the movable property is used.

Liability coverage is essential for all contractors. If a customer files a lawsuit, this type of coverage will certainly be required to protect the contractor. Subcontractors’ customers might require individuals who work for them to have Owners and Contractors Protective Liability insurance. This type of coverage provides protection for business owners from liabilities resulting from negligent acts committed by contractors or subcontractors. It’s best to speak with one of our agents to learn how this type of coverage works. There might also be coverage for certain vehicles. Speak with us to learn what types of coverage are available for vehicles that are used primarily for business.

Dec 01
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GREEN MAY BE THE WAY TO GO, BUT HOW WILL YOUR INSURANCE APPLY?

By Construction Insurance Bulletin

Environmentally-friendly construction, also known as “green” construction, is increasing rapidly in the United States. Concerns about global climate change, U.S. dependence on foreign sources of energy, and rising energy costs are inspiring individuals and businesses to construct buildings with a reduced carbon footprint. This trend has important implications for settlement of insurance claims when green buildings suffer damage.

A green building is one that has met the requirements for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification. The U.S. Green Building Council developed LEED in 1998 as a way to help building owners identify and use practical and measurable designs, construction, operations and maintenance practices that are environmentally-friendly. Green buildings are, compared to standard buildings, more energy and water efficient, produce less carbon dioxide, and have a healthier indoor environment.

Some states and municipalities have begun to adopt building codes that require elements of green construction. California has imposed tougher water efficiency standards on new residential construction; New York City is considering more stringent energy-use standards for large buildings. The impact of these requirements on construction costs will vary by location. Green construction might require specialized materials and methods; in the near term, contractors with expertise in these methods may be relatively scarce. Therefore, in some places the cost of complying with green building codes could be higher than building with standard materials and methods, and that will impact insurance coverage.

The factors that will influence the claim include:

  • Whether the green building code applies to new construction only or also to major renovations.
  • What the code defines as a “major renovation.” Some codes might consider renovations affecting more than a specified percentage of the building’s area as a major renovation.
  • How will use of green building materials affect the building’s appearance? The property owner might lose enthusiasm for a repair if a change in appearance will lower the building’s market value.
  • How will the new materials interact with the existing building components? Will integrating the new materials increase rebuilding time and cost?
  • Are qualified contractors available in the area?
  • Will wait times for green contractors and materials result in costly project delays?
  • How does the building code apply in the event of a large natural catastrophe, such as an earthquake or hurricane? Must property owners meet the higher standards at a time when hundreds of properties have suffered damage?
  • After a catastrophe, will there be long wait times for contractors to haul away debris because of overwhelmed landfills and recycling centers? Will there be long wait times for building inspectors to visit and approve all of the effected properties?

Standard personal and commercial property insurance policies provide very limited amounts of coverage for ordinance or law” losses — extra costs incurred to meet local building requirements. Additional coverage is available; property owners in areas with green building codes should speak with our insurance agents about options and costs.

Research and publishing company McGraw-Hill Construction has predicted that the market for non-residential building retrofitting with green construction will grow to $15 billion by 2014. Property owners and insurance companies will have to address these questions much more often in the near future; the time to answer them is before the losses occur.

Dec 01
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MINIMIZING WORKPLACE INJURY RISKS

By Workplace Safety

Although the costs of work-related injuries sustained by employees are usually covered by Workers Compensation coverage, there is no coverage for hidden costs to the business the employee works for. Most plans cover medical expenses and lost wages of the injured employee. However, increased overtime expenditures, reduced efficiency and the expense of training replacements are not covered. These costs can greatly affect a smaller business.

Injuries that are sustained in the workplace or in vehicles owned by the business are not limited to occupations that are known to be dangerous. For the majority of cases reported, the main three causes of workplace injuries are falls on level ground, bodily reaction and overexertion. Injuries sustained from pushing, excessive lifting, pulling, carrying a heavy object, throwing things or trying to hold a heavy object are all activities that lead to overexertion injuries. These types of injuries can seriously affect workers in any environment. It’s important for employers in every industry to be aware of these risks to avoid paying for costly preventable injuries to employees. It’s essential to train employees to recognize hazards, report unsafe conditions and to be aware of what the consequences of injuries are. Employers should encourage employees to actively contribute to a safer working environment by reporting unsafe conditions and making suggestions for changes to correct problems.

Any accident, first aid incident or near miss should be reported to employers. After receiving reports, employers should investigate the incidents thoroughly. If possible, the investigation employers carry out should take place immediately. Both hourly employees and management professionals should be involved in the investigation process. The purpose of investigations is to identify the cause of the incident without blaming anyone. The overall goal should be to improve the situation and make the workplace a safer environment for everyone.

A team should be formed that can review incidents from past years and the current year to identify patterns. In addition to this, the team should be able to identify the problems. Hospitals, police departments and fire departments should be conferred with each year for assistance in identifying risks and forming plans for emergencies. Loss of power, accidents, explosions, fires and violence are all issues that each business must address. Drills for these situations should be planned and implemented. It’s important to ensure that employees are properly trained to face any situation. They should also know the emergency and disaster plans thoroughly. Some businesses may also want to provide CPR and first aid training from the Red Cross for their employees. If this is the case, there should be at least one person who is responsible for keeping first aid kits stocked and accessible. To learn more about risks in an individual workplace and how to obtain protection, contact an agent.

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