As solar rooftops become an increasingly common addition to commercial properties, businesses need to be aware of the pros and cons of this technology. While they can provide significant financial, environmental and reputational benefits, they can also present various risks, such as fire and structural hazards. They can also be susceptible to damage from several...
Winter can significantly impact a business’s operations, so companies need to take appropriate steps to prepare for the challenges the season’s weather brings. This article provides 10 tips on how to winterize a business effectively. It is crucial for businesses to proactively address the risks of winter weather. For more information and risk management guidance,...
On Nov. 22, 2023, OSHA provided a Safety and Health Information Bulletin (SHIB) on the use of safety helmets in the workplace. The SHIB provides the key differences between safety helmets and traditional hard hats. The SHIB also describes the advancements in design, materials, and protective features that help to protect a worker’s entire head....
Amid ongoing inflation pressures, employees and employers alike can expect their health care costs to increase in 2024. Global professional services firm Aon reported that health care costs for employers will grow by 8.5% in 2024 (to more than $15,000 per employee), nearly double 2023’s figure. Here are four key trends driving employer health care...
As technology such as artificial intelligence and autonomous vehicles abound, consumers will increasingly seek out and support brands that highlight the facets that make humans unique, according to market research firm Mintel Group Ltd. This desire to balance human emotions and skills with emerging technologies is among the biggest marketing trends Mintel expects for the coming...
Market Outlook Profitable underwriting results have generated favorable conditions across the workers’ compensation insurance segment for nearly a decade. According to the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI), the segment produced a combined ratio of 87 in 2022, demonstrating continued profitability. These conditions pressed on in 2023, but industry experts reported that reserve redundancies stemming...
As winter approaches, it is crucial for small businesses to prepare for the challenges the season’s weather brings. Whether it’s potential property damage or changes in customer behavior, winter can significantly impact a company’s operations. This article provides 10 tips for effectively winterizing a small business. Being ready for winter weather requires a proactive approach....
At first blush, the ransomware attack on Colonial Pipeline(link is external) in May 2021 and a hacker’s attempt to poison the water supply(link is external) in Oldsmar, Fla., in February of the same year may not appear to have much bearing on the safety of the average commercial building. But in reality, most buildings are vulnerable to these types...
OSHA recently released its list of the top 10 most frequently cited standards following inspections of worksites by federal OSHA. The list, which consists of preliminary data and is subject to change, reflects the citations across industries and accounts for citations that occurred between Oct. 1, 2022, and Sept. 29, 2023. OSHA notes that workers...
Fostering a strong safety culture provides many benefits. In addition to reducing the risk of workplace accidents, such a culture can also help improve employee morale, enhance a business’s reputation and minimize related costs and liabilities. This article explains what it means to have a strong safety culture, outlines associated benefits and provides strategies companies...