Category: Property & Casualty

Opioid Use in the Workplace

Companies and organizations of all sizes have an important role managing risks in the workplace and promoting the safety and health of their employees. Strong workplace policies, health benefit programs and education create safe and healthy environments in which employees and business can thrive.

The coverage of prescription medication in healthcare benefit packages, when used wisely and correctly, can contribute to favorable treatment outcomes and quality of life. However, a disturbing trend driven by the use and abuse of opioid painkillers in the workplace is something that poses a unique challenge for employers and deserves attention.

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New FAA Commercial Drone Regulations

Earlier this year, we shared information with you regarding the use of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), or drones, for commercial use. Regulations and guidance from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has been confusing, even frustrating, for many companies who were looking to integrate this emerging technology into their operations. Thankfully, new rules from the FAA make commercial drone use significantly easier. The UAS Part 107 rules, effective August 29, still require UAS owners to register their drones, but it eases some of the more burdensome restrictions.

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What Should You Look for When Reviewing a Contract? Reduce Risk Through Effective Contract Management

Whether you’re signing a lease agreement or a multi-million-dollar service agreement for new software, contracts are a fact of life in any business. A contract review requires diligence and an eye for detail. Managing expectations, focusing on outcomes and getting the key information from vendors can also help achieve better outcomes in contract management.

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Data Security Breaches

When it comes to a data security breach, it isn’t as much a matter of if it will happen as when. Technology is a double-edged sword. The technology your company relies on to conduct its business can also significantly increase its vulnerability to cyber security threats—any of which can result in significant out-of-pocket and reputational costs that can devastate your bottom line.

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Near Hit Reporting

In many instances, “near misses” are often taken lightly and sometimes even result in laughs or workplace jokes. An employee stumbles over something in a walkway but does not actually fall. Laughter erupts from nearby employees who observe the scene – something reminiscent of a sitcom television show. This may seem like a harmless or even comical situation; however, consider the same stumble but, this time, the individual falls to the floor and strikes his/her head, resulting in a brain injury. Suddenly no one is laughing.

The use of the words “near miss” may produce a sigh of relief (or even a chuckle) while the words “near hit” can elicit a more serious and thoughtful response. A near hit is when something occurs, but due to chance, circumstance, inches or seconds, no one gets hurt or no damage is incurred. While a loss is avoided, just as much can be learned from a near hit as from an actual occurrence. 

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