It’s a story that feels straight out of a sitcom. Remember when Larry David’s wife left him for their contractor? Poor Larry! Sure, it was just a plotline in “Curb Your Enthusiasm”, but it got us thinking: What is it about contractors that has women falling head over heels for them? And why did Larry’s wife ditch him for the allure of sawdust and blueprints, not to mention Jeff, Susie and Leon?

As a Tri-State contractor, you might be laughing at the idea, but you might also be nodding along. Let’s dive into the fun reasons why women fall in love with their contractors—maybe it’ll offer some insights, or at the very least, give you something to smile about.

1. They Get Things Done

  There’s nothing more attractive than someone who gets results. Contractors come in, assess the situation, and start fixing problems that have been bugging homeowners for years. It’s not just the completion of a job that’s swoon-worthy, it’s the can-do attitude that gets things moving.

2. They Bring the Vision to Life

  Contractors have the power to turn a house into a dream home. For many women, seeing a contractor bring their ideas to life, whether it’s a new kitchen or a remodeled bathroom, is like watching an artist at work. It’s hard not to be captivated by someone who transforms dreams into reality.

3. They’re Problem Solvers

  The sink is leaking, the walls need repair, and there’s that mystery draft by the window—contractors have the answers. This problem-solving superpower makes them incredibly appealing. Who doesn’t love someone who can fix things when they go wrong?

4. They Take Control

  For some, there’s something undeniably attractive about a person who takes charge. Contractors are leaders, organizing teams, managing projects, and making sure everything runs smoothly. That kind of confidence can sweep anyone off their feet.

5. They’re Skilled with Their Hands

  Let’s face it: there’s something inherently attractive about someone who can work with their hands. Contractors are masters of their craft, whether it’s swinging a hammer, laying tile, or building a deck. Skill, precision, and a hands-on approach have a certain charm.

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ATTENTION CONTRACTORS – UNHAPPY WITH YOUR PAYROLL SERVICE, WORKERS’ COMPENSATION OR GROUP HEALTH INSURANCE PROGRAM? WE OFFER A GREAT PROGRAM WHERE YOU CAN SAVE UP TO 30%+. CONTACT GARY WALLACH AT 914-806-5853 FOR MORE INFORMATION

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6. They Understand the Importance of Communication

  Good contractors know how to listen and communicate with their clients. They listen to what homeowners want, offer suggestions, and keep the lines of communication open throughout the project. This understanding and partnership often creates a bond of trust—and sometimes, affection.

7. They Have a Plan

  Contractors don’t just walk in without a plan. They’ve got a timeline, they know what needs to be done, and they’ve already mapped out the best way to achieve it. For many women, a man with a plan is simply irresistible.

8. They Work Hard

  There’s a certain appeal to watching someone who works tirelessly to complete a job. Contractors spend long hours on site, ensuring that every detail is perfect. Their work ethic and dedication are often admired and respected, and sometimes, that admiration turns into something more.

9. They Transform Spaces—And People’s Lives

  Contractors don’t just remodel homes; they remodel lives. When a woman sees her home being transformed from ordinary to extraordinary, it’s easy to feel a sense of gratitude and connection with the person responsible for that change. And sometimes, that connection sparks something deeper.

10. They’re Confident in Their Abilities

    Confidence is always attractive, and contractors are often brimming with it. They know their craft, they’ve got the experience, and they’re not afraid to tackle even the toughest jobs. A man who knows what he’s doing and isn’t afraid to take on a challenge? That’s a recipe for admiration.

—

So, while Larry David may have seen his wife run off with the contractor, maybe it wasn’t all that surprising. Contractors have the skills, confidence, and charm that make them hard to resist!

Now, if you’re a Tri-State contractor and you need a different kind of help—like with your business insurance—look no further than BGES Group, one of the Tri-State’s contractor insurance specialists. Not only can we help you with construction insurance, but we can even help you come up with crazy articles like this one! Contact Gary Wallach at BGES Group today to learn more about how we can support your business.

After all, you’re already winning hearts—let us help you win at business too! Call Gary at 914-806-5853 or email him at bgesgroup@gmail.com.

BGES Group is one of New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut’s Construction Insurance Specialists representing 50+ companies, including all the BEST general & umbrella liability programs. We offer all the coverage needed, including property, builders’ risk, inland marine, general liability, umbrella liability, auto, bid & performance bonds, workers’ compensation, N.Y.S. disability, and group health.  Our commitment to you goes beyond the policies we provide. We are always just a call, text, or email away, ready to assist you, even on weekends. We understand the importance of your business and are here to help you navigate any insurance challenges.

BGES Group are Workers’ Compensation Insurance Specialists for Tri-State Business Owners: Unhappy with your rates, company, being canceled, losses causing difficulty getting coverage, in the middle of an audit dispute, misclassified payrolls, or whatever your issue. We can help!  We have special programs for Auto Services, Contractors (especially in New York), Limousine Services, Logistics Companies, Manufacturers, Recyclers, and Truckers; we can help ANY tri-state business owner. We are considered “Preferred Agents” for this one program that, if we can get you into, their pricing is excellent, offers long-term coverage stability, and can cover multi-state operations. The program takes the hassle out of doing annual audits, too. 

If you want to speak with us, call Gary Wallach at 914-806-5853, click here to email, or visit our website.

Company: BGES Group, 216A Larchmont Acres West, Larchmont, NY 10538

email: bgesgroup@gmail.com

website: http://www.bgesgroup.com

© – Copyright – 2024 – BGES Group

In today’s competitive business environment, managing payroll, workers’ compensation, and group health insurance is more than just processing payments and filing paperwork—it’s about ensuring compliance, enhancing employee satisfaction, and mitigating risks. BGES Group understands these challenges and offers a comprehensive program designed to streamline these essential functions, making life easier for employers while providing robust support for employees. Here’s a closer look at what our program offers:

Seamless Payroll and HR Management

Employee and Manager Self-Service Platform: Empower your team with easy access to their payroll information, benefits, and other HR-related documents through our user-friendly self-service platform. Managers can also track and manage their team’s performance and attendance with ease.

Online Onboarding and Enrollment: Simplify the onboarding process with our online tools that allow new hires to complete their paperwork and enroll in benefits from any device, anywhere. This ensures a smooth and efficient start for your new employees.

Access to Training Modules: Our program includes essential training modules on topics like HIPAA compliance, sexual harassment prevention, and personal protective equipment (PPE) use. These trainings help maintain a safe and compliant workplace.

PTO Tracking: Accurately track paid time off (PTO) for all employees, ensuring that everyone’s leave is recorded and managed according to your company’s policies.

Standard and Custom Reporting Packages: Whether you need standard payroll reports or customized analytics, our program provides a range of reporting options to meet your needs. This includes reports on payroll, deductions, benefits, and more.

Applicant Tracking System: Manage the hiring process from start to finish with our applicant tracking system, which helps you identify and onboard the best candidates quickly and efficiently.

HR Reports and E-Verify: Stay on top of your HR obligations with detailed reports, including census, payroll, and benefits information. Our program also integrates with E-Verify to ensure your workforce is legally authorized to work in the United States.

New Hire Reporting and Time and Attendance (Add-On): Automatically report new hires to state agencies and track employee time and attendance with our optional add-on services.

Comprehensive HR Support

Employee Handbook: Develop and maintain a compliant and up-to-date employee handbook that reflects your company’s policies and state regulations.

Multi-State Compliance: If your business operates in multiple states, our program ensures compliance with varying state laws and regulations, so you don’t have to worry about missing critical updates.

Employee Onboarding and Orientation: Our program guides you through the onboarding process, ensuring that all new employees receive a consistent and comprehensive introduction to your company.

Benefits Funding Guidance and Strategy: Our experts provide strategic guidance on how to fund your benefits programs, ensuring they are both competitive and cost-effective.

Employee Support Center: Give your employees a central resource for all their HR-related questions and needs. Our support center provides timely assistance, helping your team navigate their benefits and other HR matters.

HR Compliance Best Practices Review: Regular reviews of your HR practices help ensure you remain compliant with federal and state regulations while following industry best practices.

Support for Hiring and Termination Processes: Whether you’re bringing on new talent or managing a layoff, our program offers support to navigate the complexities of hiring and termination, ensuring compliance with all relevant laws.

Reporting and Analytics Assistance: Leverage our expertise to produce the reports and analytics you need to make informed decisions about your workforce.

FMLA Tracking: Our program includes tools to track leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), ensuring compliance and proper record-keeping.

Quarterly Client Communication: Stay informed with quarterly updates that include important legal changes, federal and state regulatory updates, and more, ensuring your business stays ahead of the curve.

Flexible Benefit Offerings: Offer your employees a range of flexible benefits that can be tailored to meet their individual needs, helping you attract and retain top talent.

Workers’ Compensation and Risk Management

Workers’ Compensation and Claims Management: Our program includes comprehensive workers’ compensation coverage and claims management, ensuring that any workplace injuries are handled efficiently and in compliance with the law.

Employment Practices Liability Insurance (EPLI): Protect your business against claims related to wrongful termination, discrimination, and other employment practices with EPLI coverage.

Compliance Expertise for Federal/State Employment Laws: Navigating the complexities of employment laws is challenging. Our program offers expertise in federal and state laws, helping you stay compliant and avoid costly penalties.

Unemployment Insurance Claim Administration: Manage your unemployment insurance claims with ease, reducing the time and stress associated with these processes.

Workplace Safety Best Practices: We provide guidance on workplace safety best practices, helping you create a safer work environment and reduce the risk of accidents.

EEO-1 Reporting: Stay compliant with Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) reporting requirements by leveraging our program’s EEO-1 reporting capabilities.

Workplace Employment Posters and OSHA 300 Log: Ensure compliance with federal and state posting requirements and maintain accurate OSHA 300 logs with our support, helping you avoid fines and penalties.

Why Choose BGES Group?

At BGES Group, we go beyond the basics to offer a fully integrated payroll, workers’ compensation, and group health insurance solution. Our program is designed to help you manage your workforce more effectively, ensure compliance, and provide your employees with the support they need. With our extensive range of services and dedicated team of experts, you can focus on growing your business while we take care of the rest.

Contact Gary Wallach at 914-806-5853 or bgesgroup@gmail.com to learn more about how our program can benefit your business. Let BGES Group be your trusted partner in managing your payroll, workers’ compensation, and group health insurance needs.

BGES Group are Workers’ Compensation Insurance Specialists for Tri-State Business Owners: Unhappy with your rates, company, being canceled, losses causing difficulty getting coverage, in the middle of an audit dispute, misclassified payrolls, or whatever your issue. We can help!  We have special programs for Auto Services, Contractors (especially in New York), Limousine Services, Logistics Companies, Manufacturers, Recyclers, and Truckers; we can help ANY tri-state business owner. We are considered “Preferred Agents” for this one program that, if we can get you into, their pricing is excellent, offers long-term coverage stability, and can cover multi-state operations. The program takes the hassle out of doing annual audits, too. 

If you want to speak with us, call Gary Wallach at 914-806-5853, click here to email, or visit our website.

Company: BGES Group, 216A Larchmont Acres West, Larchmont, NY 10538

email: bgesgroup@gmail.com

website: http://www.bgesgroup.com

© – Copyright – 2024 – BGES Group

Choosing construction insurance is a crucial step in ensuring the safety and financial protection of your construction project. This guide will help you understand what to look for when selecting the right insurance policy for your needs.

Understanding the Basics of Construction Insurance

Learn what construction insurance entails and why it is essential for any construction project.

Construction insurance is a broad term that encompasses a range of policies designed to protect construction projects, from small residential remodels to large commercial developments. The primary aim is to safeguard against financial losses due to accidents, injuries, damages, or other unforeseen events that may occur during the construction process. Knowing the different coverage options available and how they can protect various aspects of your project is vital.

Types of Construction Insurance Coverage

Explore the different types of construction insurance coverages such as General Liability, Builders Risk, Workers’ Compensation, and Professional Liability.

One of the main types of construction insurance is General Liability Insurance, which covers third-party injuries and damages that occur on the job site. It’s fundamental for any construction project to prevent significant financial repercussions from such incidents. You might also consider Builders Risk Insurance, which covers loss or damage to the building under construction due to events such as fire, theft, or vandalism.

Workers’ Compensation Insurance is another critical component, especially given that workers on a construction site can face various hazards. This insurance covers medical expenses and lost wages for workers who get injured on the job. Additionally, Professional Liability Insurance (also known as Errors and Omissions Insurance) protects against claims related to negligence, errors, or omissions in the professional services provided.

Ensuring you have the right mix of these insurance types can help mitigate risks associated with construction activities. Each project is unique, and you may need a combination of different policies to fully cover all potential risks.

Evaluating Policy Limits and Deductibles

Understand the significance of policy limits and deductibles in construction insurance and how they affect your coverage.

Policy limits refer to the maximum amount an insurance company will pay for a claim. When evaluating coverage, ensure that the policy limits are high enough to cover potential losses you might incur. It’s important to assess the value of your projects and choose limits that reflect that value accurately.

Deductibles, on the other hand, are the amount you must pay out-of-pocket before your coverage kicks in. Higher deductibles generally result in lower premiums, but be sure to choose a deductible you can afford to pay if a claim arises. Balancing the deductible with the premium is a critical part of managing your insurance costs effectively.

Considering Exclusions and Special Conditions

Identify common exclusions and special conditions in construction insurance policies that may impact your coverage.

Common exclusions in construction insurance policies often include damages caused by faulty design, wear and tear, or acts of war. It’s crucial to read the fine print and understand what isn’t covered by your policy. This can help prevent surprises when filing a claim and ensure that you aren’t left uncovered when you need it most.

Special conditions may also apply, such as requirements for maintaining certain safety standards on the job site or using particular types of materials. Violating these conditions could render your insurance policy void. Therefore, it’s essential to strictly adhere to any conditions stipulated in your policy and keep detailed records.

Assessing the Insurance Provider’s Reputation

Learn how to evaluate an insurance provider’s reputation, financial stability, and claims process.

When selecting an insurance provider, examine their reputation within the industry. Look for reviews and testimonials from other contractors to gauge their experiences with the insurer. A provider with a strong track record in handling claims efficiently and fairly can save you a lot of headaches down the line.

Financial stability is another critical factor. An insurer’s ability to pay out claims is paramount. You can check their financial ratings through agencies like A.M. Best or Standard & Poor’s. These ratings provide insight into the company’s financial health and stability.

Comparing Costs and Getting Quotes

Tips on comparing insurance costs, getting multiple quotes, and understanding what factors influence the price of your policy.

Comparing insurance costs is more than just looking at the premium price. It includes understanding what coverage you are getting in exchange for that price. Get quotes from multiple insurers to compare not only costs but also the scope of coverage and any additional services they might offer.

Factors influencing the price of your policy include the type and scope of the construction project, the number of employees, past claims history, and the location of the job site. Make sure to provide accurate information when obtaining quotes to get the most reliable comparison.

Remember, the lowest price might not always offer the best value. Consider the overall package, including the insurer’s reputation, claim handling process, and any additional benefits or coverages that come with the policy.

Final Thoughts

Selecting the right construction insurance involves understanding various factors such as coverage types, policy limits, exclusions, provider reputation, and cost. By carefully evaluating these aspects, you can make an informed decision that safeguards your construction project.

BGES Group is one of New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut’s Construction Insurance Specialists representing 50+ companies, including all the BEST general & umbrella liability programs. We offer all the coverage needed, including property, builders’ risk, inland marine, general liability, umbrella liability, auto, bid & performance bonds, workers’ compensation, N.Y.S. disability, and group health.  Our commitment to you goes beyond the policies we provide. We are always just a call, text, or email away, ready to assist you, even on weekends. We understand the importance of your business and are here to help you navigate any insurance challenges. 

BGES Group are Workers’ Compensation Insurance Specialists for Tri-State Business Owners: Unhappy with your rates, company, being canceled, losses causing difficulty getting coverage, in the middle of an audit dispute, misclassified payrolls, or whatever your issue. We can help!  We have special programs for Auto Services, Contractors (especially in New York), Limousine Services, Logistics Companies, Manufacturers, Recyclers, and Truckers; we can help ANY tri-state business owner. We are considered “Preferred Agents” for this one program that, if we can get you into, their pricing is excellent, offers long-term coverage stability, and can cover multi-state operations. The program takes the hassle out of doing annual audits, too.  

If you want to speak with us, call Gary Wallach at 914-806-5853, click here to email, or visit our website.
 
Company: BGES Group, 216A Larchmont Acres West, Larchmont, NY 10538

email: bgesgroup@gmail.com

website: http://www.bgesgroup.com

© – Copyright – 2024 – BGES Group
 

In the complex world of New York construction insurance, contractors often face a maze of requirements to ensure they’re adequately protected. Key among these requirements are the additional insured endorsements, waiver of subrogation clauses, and primary and non-contributory endorsements. These elements can be both advantageous and challenging, depending on the specifics of the construction project and the contractual agreements in place. In this article, we’ll break down the positives and negatives of these critical components and explore how they can impact your general liability coverage.

Additional Insured Endorsements: Pros and Cons

1. Ongoing Operations Coverage

– CG 20 10 4/13: This endorsement provides coverage for the additional insured (AI) during the contractor’s ongoing operations. The specific project must be listed, and coverage applies only while the contractor is actively working on the project.

  Positives:

  – Project-Specific: Ensures coverage is directly tied to the listed project, which can prevent misunderstandings.

  – Focused Coverage: Limits coverage to the period of active work, reducing the insurer’s risk and potentially lowering costs.

  Negatives:

  – Limited Duration: Once the work is completed, this endorsement no longer provides coverage, leaving the AI potentially exposed to claims arising after project completion.

– CG 20 33 4/13: Similar to the CG 20 10, this endorsement automatically grants AI status when required by a written contract, provided there’s privity of contract.

  Positives:

  – Automatic Coverage: AI status is automatically applied, ensuring seamless coverage without additional paperwork.

  – Contractual Privity: Ensures that only parties directly involved in the contract are covered.

  Negatives:

  – Ongoing Operations Only: Like CG 20 10, coverage is limited to the contractor’s active work on the project, with no protection post-completion.

– CG 20 38 4/13: This endorsement extends coverage to parties referred to in the construction agreement who are not in direct contractual privity with the contractor.

  Positives:

  – Broad Coverage: Extends protection to a wider array of stakeholders, which can be advantageous for complex projects involving multiple parties.

  – No Privity Required: Allows coverage for entities without a direct contract, offering greater flexibility.

  Negatives:

  – Ongoing Operations Only: Coverage is again limited to the period of active work, with no post-completion protection.

2. Completed Operations Coverage

– CG 20 37 4/13: This endorsement is designed for completed operations, extending coverage after the contractor’s work is finished.

  Positives:

  – Extended Protection: Ensures that the AI has coverage for claims arising after project completion, which is crucial for long-term protection.

  – Project-Specific: Tied to specific projects, reducing ambiguity in coverage.

  Negatives:

  – Post-Completion Only: This form does not provide coverage during the contractor’s active work on the project, necessitating additional endorsements for full protection.

– CG 20 39 12/19 and CG 20 40 12/19: These endorsements offer automatic coverage for completed operations when required by a written contract. The CG 20 40 is broader, covering parties without direct privity.

  Positives:

  – Automatic Status: Simplifies the process by automatically applying coverage as required.

  – Broader Protection (CG 20 40): Covers more stakeholders, making it ideal for large-scale projects with many involved parties.

  Negatives:

  – Professional Services Exclusion: Both endorsements exclude claims arising from professional services, such as architectural or engineering activities. This could leave certain stakeholders unprotected.

Waiver of Subrogation: Balancing Protection and Risk

– CG 24 04 Waiver of Transfer of Rights of Recovery Against Others to Us: The 2019 version of this waiver endorsement eliminates ambiguity from previous versions and broadens the scope of the waiver to a wider set of policies.

  Positives:

  – Broad Application: Expands the waiver’s scope beyond just CGL and PCO coverage parts, offering more comprehensive protection.

  – Clarified Language: The updated language reduces confusion and ensures that the waiver applies even without direct contractual privity.

  Negatives:

  – Limited by Insured’s Own Waiver: The waiver is conditioned on the insured’s own waiver of claims prior to the loss, potentially narrowing the scope of protection.

– CG 24 53 Automatic Waiver: This form automatically applies the waiver of subrogation, simplifying the process for contractors and insurers alike.

  Positives:

  – Automatic Application: Reduces administrative burden by applying the waiver without additional steps.

  – Equivalent Protection: Offers the same protection as CG 24 04 but with the ease of automatic inclusion.

  Negatives:

  – Potential Overreach: Automatic waivers may apply in situations where the insured might prefer to retain subrogation rights, potentially increasing risk.

Primary and Non-Contributory Endorsements: Expanding Coverage

– CG 20 01 Primary and Non-Contributory Endorsement: This endorsement has been revised to include coverage for liquor liability, extending its applicability.

  Positives:

  – Broader Coverage: The inclusion of liquor liability makes this endorsement more versatile, protecting contractors in a wider range of scenarios.

  – Priority of Coverage: Ensures that the contractor’s policy is primary, reducing the likelihood of disputes with other insurers.

  Negatives:

  – Complexity in Claims: The broader application can lead to more complex claims handling, particularly in industries where liquor liability is a significant concern.

Conclusion

Navigating the intricacies of general liability policies for New York contractors requires a deep understanding of the various endorsements available, including additional insured, waiver of subrogation, and primary and non-contributory forms. Each has its own set of advantages and potential drawbacks, depending on the specifics of your project and contractual agreements.

As New York construction insurance specialists, BGES Group is here to help you make informed decisions about your business insurance needs. Whether you’re dealing with complex contractual requirements or looking to ensure comprehensive coverage, we can guide you through the process. Contact Gary Wallach at 914-806-5853 or bgesgroup@gmail.com for expert advice and tailored insurance solutions.

BGES Group is one of New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut’s Construction Insurance Specialists representing 50+ companies, including all the BEST general & umbrella liability programs. We offer all the coverage needed, including property, builders’ risk, inland marine, general liability, umbrella liability, auto, bid & performance bonds, workers’ compensation, N.Y.S. disability, and group health.  Our commitment to you goes beyond the policies we provide. We are always just a call, text, or email away, ready to assist you, even on weekends. We understand the importance of your business and are here to help you navigate any insurance challenges.

BGES Group are Workers’ Compensation Insurance Specialists for Tri-State Business Owners: Unhappy with your rates, company, being canceled, losses causing difficulty getting coverage, in the middle of an audit dispute, misclassified payrolls, or whatever your issue. We can help!  We have special programs for Auto Services, Contractors (especially in New York), Limousine Services, Logistics Companies, Manufacturers, Recyclers, and Truckers; we can help ANY tri-state business owner. We are considered “Preferred Agents” for this one program that, if we can get you into, their pricing is excellent, offers long-term coverage stability, and can cover multi-state operations. The program takes the hassle out of doing annual audits, too. 

If you want to speak with us, call Gary Wallach at 914-806-5853, click here to email, or visit our website.

Company: BGES Group, 216A Larchmont Acres West, Larchmont, NY 10538

email: bgesgroup@gmail.com

website: http://www.bgesgroup.com

© – Copyright – 2024 – BGES Group

Disclaimer:

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or insurance advice. Contractors should consult with their insurance professionals and legal advisors to ensure their policies meet their specific needs and contractual obligations.

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has issued new guidance for preventing harassment on construction industry worksites.

The guidance, while not binding, can be used as a template for construction firms to implement anti-harassment policies. According to the EEOC, the industry has an especially high incidence of harassment complaints, and “some of the most egregious incidents of harassment investigated by the EEOC have arisen in the construction industry.”

The nature of the construction industry includes risk factors that may increase the likelihood of harassment, including workforces that are primarily male, those where there is pressure to conform to traditional stereotypes, and decentralized workplaces, according to the EEOC.

These factors may be exacerbated by the presence of multiple employers on a worksite, and the cyclical, project-based nature of construction.

The guidance, “Promising Practices for Preventing Harassment in the Construction Industry,”  outlines the main principles for implementing an effective strategy to prevent workplace harassment, as follows:

Buy-in from leadership

Worksite leaders, from the project owner to crew leads to union stewards, should clearly, frequently and unequivocally message and demonstrate that harassment is prohibited.

The EEOC recommends that project owners and general contractors prioritize and emphasize  worksite-wide collaboration to prevent and correct harassment. The general contractor is typically well positioned to coordinate harassment prevention across a worksite and serve as a backstop for resolving difficult issues

General contractors should assist subcontractors and staffing agencies with their legal obligations under federal anti-discrimination laws by referring them to the EEOC’s Small Business Resource Center.

It also recommends that project owners or sponsors consider requiring that contract bids include a plan to prevent and address workplace harassment.

Strong and comprehensive harassment policies

Policies should include:

• A clear description of prohibited conduct, with examples tailored to the work environment, such as taunting tradeswomen when they are performing a difficult or dangerous task, or vandalizing the toolboxes or personal protective equipment of Black workers.
• An unequivocal statement that harassment is prohibited.
• A description of complaint and reporting processes, and where to find more information about them.
• A commitment that the employer will provide a prompt, impartial and thorough investigation, and that it will keep confidential the identity of individuals who make reports.
• A statement that workers are encouraged to report harassment, bullying or other inappropriate conduct even if they are not sure if the conduct violates the policy.
• A discipline policy that is prompt, consistent and proportionate to the severity of the harassment or related misconduct, such as retaliation.
• An unequivocal statement that retaliation for reporting harassment is prohibited.
• Account for language barriers in the workforce, such as for non-native English speakers or workers with poor literacy.

Policies should also include steps for when a subcontractor lacks the experience or resources to resolve an issue, takes inadequate steps to address or prevent harassment or fails to take reasonable corrective action in response to harassment.

In such instances, a general contractor should consider facilitating and assisting subcontractors in finding solutions, especially when harassment is occurring between workers from different employers.

Regular and effective training

All workers should be regularly trained on the harassment policy and complaint system.

Training should be:

• Clear, easy to understand and offered in languages commonly used by onsite workers;
• Tailored to the specific workforce and work environment; and
• Interactive, if feasible. Alternative options include providing training through an interactive module accessible via mobile phone or watching a series of short video clips, followed by a guided discussion about the clips.

The takeaway

While the guidance isn’t legally binding, employers should consider following its recommendations as doing so can reduce the risk of liability.

BGES Group is one of New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut’s Construction Insurance Specialists representing 50+ companies, including all the BEST general & umbrella liability programs. We offer all the coverage needed, including property, builders’ risk, inland marine, general liability, umbrella liability, auto, bid & performance bonds, workers’ compensation, N.Y.S. disability, and group health.  Our commitment to you goes beyond the policies we provide. We are always just a call, text, or email away, ready to assist you, even on weekends. We understand the importance of your business and are here to help you navigate any insurance challenges.

BGES Group are Workers’ Compensation Insurance Specialists for Tri-State Business Owners: Unhappy with your rates, company, being canceled, losses causing difficulty getting coverage, in the middle of an audit dispute, misclassified payrolls, or whatever your issue. We can help! We have special programs for Auto Services, Contractors (especially in New York), Limousine Services, Logistics Companies, Manufacturers, Recyclers, and Truckers; we can help ANY tri-state business owner. We are considered “Preferred Agents” for this one program that, if we can get you into, their pricing is excellent, offers long-term coverage stability, and can cover multi-state operations. The program takes the hassle out of doing annual audits, too.

If you want to speak with us, call Gary Wallach at 914-806-5853, click here to email, or visit our website.

Company: BGES Group, 216A Larchmont Acres West, Larchmont, NY 10538

email: bgesgroup@gmail.com

website: http://www.bgesgroup.com

© – Copyright – 2024 – BGES Group