Wildfires are unplanned, uncontrolled and unpredictable fires resulting from lightning and human causes, such as campfires, downed utility wires and cigarette butts. Direct flames, radiant heat from nearby burning plants or structures, and flying embers from wildfires can pose risks to businesses, homes and people. Wildfires can have a profound impact on local economies as...
Going as far back as the 1973 policy’s insuring agreement, the insurer pledges to pay on behalf of the insured all sums the insured becomes legally obligated to pay as damages because of bodily injury or property damage caused by an “occurrence.” The current CGL form employs simplified language to promise: “We will pay those...
Like every industry, construction isn’t immune to the effects of global climate change. Adverse weather affects 45% of construction projects globally, a 2021 report from the Air Force Institute of Technology found, and results in billions of dollars of additional expenses and lost revenue. Project delays, damaged materials and supply chain shortages are just some of...
Most of us should be able to agree that those who work within not-for-profit organizations are heroes. From nonprofit founders to entry-level workers, they find themselves in this important work because it fuels a personal passion. That passion might include an overarching urge and desire to express benevolence and aid those causes and communities who...
Mobile malware—malicious software designed to gain access to private data on mobile devices—is a growing threat to companies’ cybersecurity. As companies embrace remote work and more employees use their personal devices for work-related tasks, cybercriminals are finding more opportunities to exploit these vulnerable and often unsecured devices to access corporate servers and sensitive information. The...
On March 3, 2023, the California Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board (Cal/OSHA Board) proposed to revise the standards for workplace exposure to lead for the general industry and construction industries. With the revisions, Cal/OSHA cited a need to adequately protect employees who are exposed to lead in their occupations. This proposal would reduce the...
The risk of serious injury or death doesn’t end after a construction worker’s fall has been arrested. Although personal protective equipment (PPE) may prevent ground impacts, it may leave you or your co-workers vulnerable to the harmful effects of suspension trauma, also known as orthostatic intolerance or harness hang syndrome. Suspension trauma can occur due...
As we enter 2023, the importance of employee well-being and the ‘human touch’ in the workplace is expected to continue to grow in significance. With a changing economy and shifting workforce expectations, HR departments must proactively address various challenges and opportunities. From managing employee well-being to investing in learning and development, HR will be crucial...
Commercial property and casualty (P&C) insurance carriers have been delivering strong financial performance in recent years despite the widespread disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and other global events, according to a recent McKinsey report. The report noted that premiums have been driven by extensive risk-adjusted rate hardening on a year-on-year basis, resulting in an...
Workplace injuries are a reality that many small businesses face — especially those in higher-risk industries such as manufacturing, construction and transportation. Workplace accidents happen, regardless of the industry, so it’s important to understand the benefits of efficient reporting of workers’ comp claims. The amount of time it takes to report claims can have a...