As the economy continues expanding, companies need to be careful about adequately managing their risk, according to a report by Advisen Inc., an insurance research and data firm. Increased activity typically means proportionally additional losses. For example, more trucks driving more miles will inevitably result in more accidents. However, other kinds of risk can actually increase more than the jump in business activity. We look at three such areas here. Workplace safety
Workplace injuries can increase as firms hire workers that have less experience. Typically, when employers expand their workforce to meet the growing demand for their products and services, the number of workers' compensation claims tended to rise disproportionately. New employees with less experience typically are more likely to sustain a workplace injury. At the same time, experienced staff may look for new job opportunities as compensation begins to take priority over job security. What you can do: One option is to hire a temporary-staffing firm to fill positions. In these relationships, the client company is not responsible for covering temporary workers. But you should be aware that OSHA requires what is known as the "dual employer doctrine," under which temporary workers are considered employees of both the agency and the company using them. And you are also not off the hook for providing them with a safe work environment and safety training specific to their job. And remember: Check to make sure the temp agency has workers' comp insurance. Litigation increases The risk of being sued rises as employees make mistakes due to pressure on existing staff to increase production, and again when less experienced workers are added to the payroll. Your workers may be putting in extra hours. But fatigued workers make mistakes. In addition, inexperienced employees are more like contribute to incidents where outsiders are hurt. What you can do: Conduct thorough interviews, check references, and carry out background investigations when appropriate. You are responsible for the actions of your employees. Also, make sure that you are not overworking your staff. Provide proper breaks so they can rest, especially in jobs that require attention and strength. Labor law violations Trends in litigation and regulation make it more likely that companies will be charged with labor law violations. In addition, the federal and many state governments have cracked down on wage and hour law violations. Some companies may try to add to their worker pool by using more independent contractors to avoid hiring new workers. But the federal government has mounted a serious crackdown on companies that inappropriately classify employees as independent contractors. What you can do: Pay close attention to your payment systems and audit your systems to make sure you comply with wage and hour laws as well as meal and rest break laws. The takeaway Increase your vigilance in managing your risk and review your current risk management strategies for gaps due to business growth. You can take the following steps to reduce your chances of increased claims:
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September 2022
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501 Bell St.
Dubuque, IA 52001
Phone: (563) 556-0272
An AssuredPartners Agency
In February 2020, The Friedman Group joined AssuredPartners, the 11th largest insurance brokerage in the U.S. This partnership provides us access to additional capital and a national footprint that enables us to continue to negotiate the most favorable coverage terms and conditions for our clients, and allows us to provide an even broader spectrum of risk management support services.
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