The construction industry has the highest percentage of electrical fatalities out of all industries.

While electricity is a crucial component in a construction project’s success, it poses a risk of harmful shock, horrific burns or fatal electrocution. These accidents can occur when workers come into contact with power lines, wiring, transformers or other electrical machinery.

Fortunately, there are steps that companies can take to minimize the dangers:

Provide protective equipment — Electrical safety starts at a personal level. All electrical work personnel or people working in an area with electrical materials should wear protective gear, such as insulated gloves and footwear.

This provides basic safety if they come into contact with electrical equipment, whether accidentally or intentionally.

Train workers in handling electrical equipment — Electrical mishaps can occur when there is misuse or mishandling of electrical equipment.

Workers should be trained on how to handle and operate the equipment safely. Conduct regular training to ensure your workers don’t become lax when they use the same equipment. 

Use proper testing equipment — Proper testing equipment should be among the essential tools on a construction site.

Voltage detectors, receptacle testers and clamp meters are among the tools every worksite should have to enhance electrical safety and help prevent electrical accidents.

Install the right signage — Lack of awareness can lead to catastrophic electrical accidents. All electrical hazards should be marked to warn your workers of the dangers.

The signs should have labels in language and illustrations that can be easily understood by a layman.

Conduct a risk assessment — Conduct a risk assessment survey of the worksite before operations begin. This will help identify hazards that can compromise electrical safety and allow you to come up with solutions accordingly.

The assessment will also help your team develop a plan on how to lay out electrical infrastructure with safety in mind. The plan should indicate where and how electrical equipment will be placed and how the wiring will be done. 

Use circuit breakers and voltage regulators — Emergencies can occur in case of a power surge, short-circuit or other electrical issue. That’s why it’s essential to have circuit breakers and voltage regulators to cut off power during such situations.

The ability to regulate or shut down power supply on time during a crisis can avert catastrophic damage.

Avoid wet conditions — Electrical equipment and infrastructures in the worksite should be shielded from coming into contact with water at all costs.

This should be done during the planning process. When the equipment comes into contact with water, shut off the power supply immediately. It should be turned back on under a professional electrician’s recommendation.

Organize and insulate all exposed cables — A construction area should never have messy or uncovered power cables. When unorganized, the cables can contact each other, resulting in short-circuiting and possibly fire.

 If left uncovered, workers may accidentally touch them, leading to shock or electrocution. Cover all cables in a construction site with insulating material and organize the cables to enhance electrical safety.

The takeaway

While overall safety is a significant concern in the construction industry, electrical dangers can be contained if the right measures are implemented.

The above tips can help construction firms to boost electrical safety in their operations.

However, all the parties on a construction site must be diligent for maximum electrical safety.

BGES Group, located in Larchmont, N.Y. are New York Construction Insurance Specialists that represent 50+ companies and all the BEST general & umbrella liability programs!  We offer every coverage you need including property, builders risk, inland marine, general liability, umbrella liability, auto, bid & performance bonds, workers’ compensation, N.Y.S. disability and group health.  We are extremely responsive, responsible, trustworthy, fast, minimize your insurance headaches, we don’t charge ridiculous policy or service fees and when you call, text or email, whatever time of day, even weekends, we are ARE THERE to help YOU! 

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

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

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

e-mail: bgesgroup@gmail.com

website: http://www.bgesgroup.com

© – Copyright – 2023 – BGES Group

Spray polyurethane foam has become an increasingly popular insulation material used in residential and commercial construction. According to Fed/OSHA, the use of SPF insulation has increased by 60% in the past five years.

Employers and workers alike should be aware of hazards that are associated with SPF insulation as such products can sicken and cause long-term health problems for workers. Besides the suffering of your employees, this can also result in OSHA fines, higher workers’ compensation rates and productivity problems.

Here’s what you need to know to keep employees working with these substances safe.

Isocyanates

One of the major hazards associated with SPF insulation is worker exposure to isocyanates, a family of highly hazardous chemicals that can irritate the mucous membranes of the eyes and the gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts.

Isocyanates include methylene bisphenyl diisocyanate, toluene diisocyanate, hexamethylene diisocyanate and isophorone diisocyanate. Direct skin contact can also cause marked inflammation.

Symptoms from immediate exposure to isocyanates can include:

• Wheezing
• Fever
• Shortness of breath
• Sore throat
• Chest tightness

Symptoms from longer exposure to isocyanates can include:

• Asthma
• Reactive airways dysfunction syndrome (RADS)
• Hypersensitivity pneumonitis, or inflammation of the lung

Additional hazards

Working in a confined environment when applying SPF insulation in some areas such as crawl spaces and attics can also pose problems. In a confined space, there is always the danger of a build-up of gases or decreased oxygen levels. Employers must follow Cal/OSHA’s confined space entry procedures for this type of work.

Certain conditions can also cause SPF insulation to ignite, such as having an ignition source nearby. 

Once a fire starts, there is also the potential to further release toxic chemicals into the air. To prevent a fire from happening in the first place, make sure workers have adequate ventilation and turn off any sources of ignition (such as gas stoves, pilot lights, dryers and light switches).

If a fire does occur, an ABC fire extinguisher appropriate for SPF should be available when working with this material.

Other chemical hazards associated with SPF insulation are:

• Flame-retardants in the material, which have the potential to build up in the body and are associated with various cancers and reproductive problems in women.
• Solvents, which can impair mental acuity, irritate mucous membranes, and cause headaches and loss of coordination.
• Amines, which irritate the eyes and nose and cause blurred vision.

Safe work practices

To help prevent the risk of injury or death, make sure workers become familiar with these various chemical hazards. Provide them with training and safety data sheets that communicate the hazards of chemical products. The SDS will also list the proper personal protective equipment (safety goggles, chemical-resistant full-coverage clothing, and gloves) recommended by the manufacturer.

Make sure to let building occupants know about the application schedule, chemical hazards and emergency procedures. Employees who are not wearing protective equipment must not be allowed in the work area.

The work area should be:

• Properly ventilated, including an exhaust ventilation system, and
• Isolated with a plastic sheeting to prevent chemical spread.

A respirator is also required when spraying SPF; the employee must be medically evaluated for respirator use, and fit-tested to ensure a proper fit. One of the following types of respirators should be used:

• Full-face supplied air respirator.
• Powered air purifying respirator.
• Full-face respirator with organic vapor cartridges and an N95 filter pad over the cartridges.

After the work is complete, it is typically safe to enter the area when the insulating foam has hardened to the point where it is no longer wet or sticky. This could range from about 12 hours after the end of spraying for unprotected workers, to 24 hours for residents. Conditions may also depend on the temperature, humidity and the amount of foam sprayed.

Good housekeeping is crucial. Clean up the work area, remove protective clothing and wash up immediately.

BGES Group, located in Larchmont, N.Y. are New York Construction Insurance Specialists that represent 50+ companies and all the BEST general & umbrella liability programs!  We offer every coverage you need including property, builders risk, inland marine, general liability, umbrella liability, auto, bid & performance bonds, workers’ compensation, N.Y.S. disability and group health.  We are extremely responsive, responsible, trustworthy, fast, minimize your insurance headaches, we don’t charge ridiculous policy or service fees and when you call, text or email, whatever time of day, even weekends, we are ARE THERE to help YOU! 

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

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

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

e-mail: bgesgroup@gmail.com

website: http://www.bgesgroup.com

© – Copyright – 2023 – BGES Group

The safe use of heavy equipment is critical when machinery such as bulldozers, graders or ground-moving equipment is used in the construction of new homes, bridges, shopping malls or other commercial buildings. 

The size and weight of these heavy machines make them extremely hazardous, and proper operation is required to avoid serious injury or death. Heavy-equipment injuries are a frequent occurrence during the construction of roads and commercial properties in particular, due to the amount of activity taking place.

Even the most experienced of operators may find operating heavy equipment a challenge at times.

Prior to the start of a project, inspect all heavy machinery. Heavy-equipment inspection is crucial in ensuring that everything is in working condition and ready for safe operation. 

But remember: a visual inspection is not enough. Physically check the equipment for issues such as torn belts, worn brakes and hoses, and leaking hydraulics. That means feeling and manipulating the various parts. 

When storing machinery, ensure that the component parts are properly secured or disabled. 

Also, just because equipment is in the “off” position does not necessarily mean it is safe. 

Moving parts such as blades and saws have the potential to cause injury and, when storing away mobile equipment, make sure that brakes are in the locked position. 

The owner’s manuals for the equipment should provide you with detailed information on how to properly secure equipment when not in use.

Construction vehicles

Weather conditions such as rain could cause a shift in the ground under a backhoe, while a strong breeze could affect the balance of a crane. 

In addition, operators should never work while impaired or under the effects of medication — and worksites should be constantly monitored for unsafe operating conditions.

Safety requirements vary depending upon the type of heavy machinery. For example, regulations for operating a bulldozer will differ vastly from those for a forklift or a loader. 

Some machinery also may require the use of a commercial driver’s license and an approved training course. Employees must be properly trained on each piece of equipment that they operate.

OSHA regulations are in place to ensure safe operation. The types of requirements depend on the type of construction activities performed.

As the employer, you have a responsibility for the health and well-being of your employees. Ensuring that you and your employees become familiar with safe work practices with heavy equipment will keep jobsites free of injury.

Here are a few common safety rules for operators and ground-based workers to consider:

Good communication is essential — A standardized set of hand signals should be used by the operator and signal person. Operators should always know exactly where all ground-based workers are located, and the wearing of high-visibility vests will help the operator to locate them quickly. 

The equipment should have a back-up warning alarm that can be heard by all nearby workers. Two-way radios are also valuable communication tools.

Rollover protective structures (ROPS) – Heavy equipment must have a ROPS that meets OSHA requirements. The ROPS is designed to protect the operator if the machine tips over. A seat belt must be worn so that the operator will not be thrown out of the seat during a rollover or upset situation. 

If working on slopes, try to avoid moving across the face of the slope. Operate up and down the slope face if possible. Use extreme caution when operating near open excavations.

Wear hearing protection when required – If it has been determined that noise levels around the equipment could potentially cause hearing loss, always use protective plugs or muffs when working on or close to the equipment.

Never jump onto or off the equipment  — Operators should always use the three-point contact rule when climbing onto or off heavy equipment. The rule means having both feet and one hand, or one foot and both hands, in contact with the ladder access at all times.

Inspect and service the equipment regularly – Complete equipment service in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations. Periodic safety inspections on all components of the equipment should be done regularly by qualified personnel.

Inspect the steering system and brake systems carefully. A pre-shift walk-around inspection by the operator is highly recommended.

Injury accidents involving heavy equipment on construction sites have a higher probability of resulting in a fatality than many other types of accidents. It is critical that your workers follow all of your company’s safety rules and procedures when operating or working around heavy equipment.

BGES Group, located in Larchmont, N.Y. are New York Construction Insurance Specialists that represent 50+ companies and all the BEST general & umbrella liability programs!  We offer every coverage you need including property, builders risk, inland marine, general liability, umbrella liability, auto, bid & performance bonds, workers’ compensation, N.Y.S. disability and group health.  We are extremely responsive, responsible, trustworthy, fast, minimize your insurance headaches, we don’t charge ridiculous policy or service fees and when you call, text or email, whatever time of day, even weekends, we are ARE THERE to help YOU! 

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

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

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

e-mail: bgesgroup@gmail.com

website: http://www.bgesgroup.com

© – Copyright – 2023 – BGES Group

Language barriers can present real threats to worker safety, particularly in certain industries that employ a larger share of non-native English speakers.

Only 57% of U.S. agricultural workers in 2019 were born in this country, including Puerto Rico, according to U.S. Census Bureau data. One-quarter of construction workers in 2020 were foreign-born.

Occupations in these industries can be among the most dangerous. Language barriers that prevent effective communication about safe work practices present a significant problem for achieving workplace safety.

OSHA requires employers to train their workers on:

• Injury prevention by performing tasks safely.
• Injury protection by wearing protective clothing and gear.
• Necessary steps after an injury occurs.

Unfortunately, language barriers make effective training on these topics difficult. OSHA requires employers to provide training to employees in “a language and vocabulary” they can understand.

However, simply providing signs and written instructions in non-English languages is not enough.

What employers can do

Here are some measures you can consider taking to overcome language barriers to workplace safety:

Training programs — Depending on how proficient workers are in English, you can modify safety training by:

• Providing training interpreters for workers with low proficiency.
• Speaking more slowly and clearly enunciating words for those who are more proficient.
• Providing visual aids and demonstrations.

Pairing — Have low English-proficiency workers pair with experienced workers who can demonstrate safe practices and supervise their progress.

If resources are limited, this can be done for the first days or weeks of the person’s employment. The more dangerous the work, the longer the pairing arrangement should ideally last.

Interpreters — If a large percentage of the workforce does not speak English, consider hiring interpreters to be on-site. Interpreters can relay instructions and warnings from supervisors to workers in words they understand, while also responding to supervisors in English with worker questions and concerns.

Written content translation — Provide written instructions in multiple languages, appropriate to the specific workforce, for workers who are literate. Keep in mind, however, the possible differences in dialects.

Pay to have employees learn English — If it is within your budget, consider paying for English classes for workers who need them. This may make communication easier and improve employee loyalty.

Hire multilingual employees — Look for employees who, for example, speak both English and Spanish. This puts less of the burden on the non-English speaker and may make the workplace feel more inclusive.

The takeaway

Ideally, language differences should not prevent employers from giving opportunities to earn a living to those who do not speak English.

Providing a workplace that is safe for all employees will reduce workers’ compensation benefit costs and help you hire and retain desirable employees.

BGES Group, located in Larchmont, N.Y. are New York Construction Insurance Specialists that represent 50+ companies and all the BEST general & umbrella liability programs!  We offer every coverage you need including property, builders risk, inland marine, general liability, umbrella liability, auto, bid & performance bonds, workers’ compensation, N.Y.S. disability and group health.  We are extremely responsive, responsible, trustworthy, fast, minimize your insurance headaches, we don’t charge ridiculous policy or service fees and when you call, text or email, whatever time of day, even weekends, we are ARE THERE to help YOU! 

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

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

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

e-mail: bgesgroup@gmail.com

website: http://www.bgesgroup.com

© – Copyright – 2023 – BGES Group

A jobsite crawling with bulldozers, cranes, scrapers and tractors can sometimes feel like a danger zone. However, with the proper heavy equipment safety guidelines in place, you can reduce risk and ensure your workers head home unscathed every day.

There are three main ingredients to safe heavy equipment operation: safe equipment, proper training and a safe attitude, and constant awareness of all jobsite activities.

If heavy equipment operators are armed with these three tools, they’ll have no problem playing it safe. Read on to learn more about these and other essential safety factors for operating heavy equipment on the worksite.

Use dependable equipment

OSHA puts a heavy emphasis on the safety features of heavy equipment. But, there’s much more to keeping equipment safe than just inspecting the machine’s safety features. After all, countless things can go wrong with this complex equipment, and these problems can lead to some major risks on the jobsite.

It’s extremely important to create customized inspection checklists for each unique piece of equipment. Safety experts recommend that heavy equipment operators conduct a pre-operational walk around and pre-start-up (in-cab) inspection before starting work to ensure the following are all working properly:

• Service, emergency and parking brakes
• Headlights
• Taillights and backup lights
• The horn.

Of course, these are just a few of the items that should be included on the checklist. You should create customized checklists for each piece of equipment based on both OSHA guidelines and the information provided in the equipment operating manual.

Steer clear of jobsite dangers

Heavy equipment operators should be aware of all jobsite activities so they can avoid potential dangers. That’s why it’s critical for equipment operators to walk through site activity checklists each day.

Here are a few obstacles and activities for operators to stay on the lookout for:

• Overhead lines: Many fatal occupational injuries occur due to contact between large jobsite equipment and overhead lines. That’s why equipment operators must exercise extreme caution when working near overhead power lines.

Workers should assume that all overhead lines are energized unless electrical utility authorities have indicated otherwise, and that they are visibly grounded and appropriately marked. OSHA provides specific requirements for the safe use of equipment near overhead lines.

• Barricades: Barricades must be used on any worksite where heavy equipment is in operation. These barricades help to notify workers where equipment is in use so that they can stay out of the area and avoid serious injury.
• Hand signals: If a crane is operation on a jobsite, the crane operator and the signaler must know the hand signals that are required by OSHA. These hand signals can be used for other types of equipment, as well.

Ensure safety with well-trained workers

A jobsite is only as safe as its workers. That’s why it’s so important to employ only well-trained, safety-conscious workers for work at a heavy equipment site. You should also conduct regular training, such as tailgate sessions before a shift starts.

According to OSHA requirements, jobsites, materials and equipment should undergo frequent and regular inspections by “competent persons” designated by the employer. It takes training to be a competent worker.

It’s important to train your employees on proper equipment inspection and operation safety. After all, your workers’ lives could depend on it. For more information, visit the OSHA website at www.osha.gov.

BGES Group, located in Larchmont, N.Y. are New York Construction Insurance Specialists that represent 50+ companies and all the BEST general & umbrella liability programs!  We offer every coverage you need including property, builders risk, inland marine, general liability, umbrella liability, auto, bid & performance bonds, workers’ compensation, N.Y.S. disability and group health.  We are extremely responsive, responsible, trustworthy, fast, minimize your insurance headaches, we don’t charge ridiculous policy or service fees and when you call, text or email, whatever time of day, even weekends, we are ARE THERE to help YOU! 

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

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

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

e-mail: bgesgroup@gmail.com

website: http://www.bgesgroup.com

© – Copyright – 2023 – BGES Group

More employers are testing new hires in physical jobs to establish a baseline in case they ever file a workers’ comp claim down the road.

The aim is to establish what physical ailments and pain the new hire already has, so if they are injured you can find out if they aggravated an existing injury or it’s just an existing injury that’s flaring up. And if done correctly, baseline testing doesn’t infringe on the worker’s rights or health privacy.

Baseline testing should not be confused with physical evaluations that are conducted after a job offer, but prior to placement, to ensure the new hire doesn’t have physical constraints that would keep them from performing their job. The data in a baseline evaluation cannot be used for that.

In fact, the data collected in baseline testing is kept sealed from the employer.

How it works

Baseline testing is best conducted on workers in physical jobs.

Baseline tests measure the signals traveling in the nerves and muscles, and include the use of electromyography. The tests are non-invasive and often include range-of-motion testing.

Employers that send their employees for testing cannot view the test results unless the information is needed to confirm or refute a subsequent injury.

If a worker files a claim for a soft-tissue or repetitive motion injury, the employer can order a second test, which will be used by the insurance claims adjuster or treating physician to compare to the baseline test. If there is no change in pathology, the claims administrator can deny the claim and the chances are high it won’t be contested.

To avoid problems with singling out specific workers or disabilities, you should perform this testing on the entire workforce – or at least in all of your physical jobs.

Under the law, you can order baseline testing at any time on any employee, and not just when they are hired.

The good thing about the testing is that it can identify legitimate claims. Since there is a baseline, when doctors compare and see a change in pathology, they can order treatment and workers’ comp insurance pays for it and the worker’s time away from work.

On the other hand, a second test can show irrefutable evidence that there was no chain in pathology and so the injury that the worker is claiming is likely not work-related.

Savings

Anecdotally, employers that use baseline testing see tremendous results in their workers’ comp claims.

According to an article in Business Insurance, Wisconsin-based Marten Transport since starting baseline testing in 2015:

•          Has seen its rate of soft-tissue injury claims for new hires drop from 3.3 per 100 new hires to 1.4.

•          Has had only three of the 37 claims filed by new hires in their first six months showing actual injuries beyond soft-tissue pain that was documented when they began working.

Marten Transport conducts the tests as part of its employment agreement and uses a third-party company to carry them out.

The non-profit organization, the Gatesway Foundation, started using baseline testing by contracting with California-based Emerge Diagnostics to rein in its spiraling workers’ comp costs.

It had been experiencing a high share of work-related musculoskeletal injuries (soft-tissue) claims, like injuries to muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, cartilage and spinal discs.

The year prior to implementing baseline testing, the foundation’s developed claims losses were $1 million. In the first six months of the next policy year, prior to implementing the program, the foundation’s developed losses were $500,000 but, in the latter half of the year – after implementation – losses had dropped to $30,000.

Overall, it reduced claims costs by $316,544 and the program cost $9,200 – a return on investment of 3,441%.

The takeaway

As mentioned, workers in physical jobs are the best candidates for baseline testing. That includes both light and heavy manufacturing, construction, agriculture, cleaning services and movers, to name a few.

But it could also be applied to any job that involves any type of repetitive motion, even without physical exertion.

BGES Group, located in Larchmont, N.Y. are New York Construction Insurance Specialists that represent 50+ companies and all the BEST general & umbrella liability programs!  We offer every coverage you need including property, builders risk, inland marine, general liability, umbrella liability, auto, bid & performance bonds, workers’ compensation, N.Y.S. disability and group health.  We are extremely responsive, responsible, trustworthy, fast, minimize your insurance headaches, we don’t charge ridiculous policy or service fees and when you call, text or email, whatever time of day, even weekends, we are ARE THERE to help YOU! 

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

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

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

e-mail: bgesgroup@gmail.com

website: http://www.bgesgroup.com

© – Copyright – 2023 – BGES Group

Studies show that for every major workplace injury or fatality, there are nearly 10 minor injuries – and more than 30 accidents that lead to property damage.

Capturing data even on minor incidents that may seem trivial in isolation can be critical in informing efforts to prevent much greater dangers in the future. A big part of that effort involves ensuring businesses maintain a complete set of data.

Managers at all levels should focus on solid and thorough documentation. Here is where management’s main effort should be concentrated:

Don’t ignore minor incidents. Document all of them. Even if you have avoided injuries and severe property damage so far, keeping careful records may provide critical risk management insights – and enable managers to take action to prevent accidents before they occur.

Identify patterns. Do minor incidents seem to happen in the same area? Involve the same or similar machinery? Are they in the same department or under the same manager? Careful record-keeping is a valuable tool for identifying patterns.

Discourage presenteeism. Workers who come to work sick may be taking medications that increase the risk of incidents. Workers are not robots: Sick or distracted workers may make serious or deadly mistakes. To prevent this, have a sustainable sick day policy and encourage workers to take time off when needed – especially in dangerous occupations.

Encourage reporting. Studies have shown that the vast majority of minor incidents are not properly reported or recorded.

One study found that 85% of workers told researchers they had experienced work-related symptoms, 50% had experienced persistent work-related medical symptoms and 30% reported they had lost time from an incident or from a repetitive motion injury – yet only 5% of workers told researchers they had formally reported any of these incidents.

When asked why they didn’t report safety incidents, workers cited a number of reasons:

• Fear of reprisal
• Poor management response to prior reports
• Fear of losing their job or being transferred to a less desirable position
• Belief that pain or another medical symptom was a normal consequence of work activity or ageing.

Maintain OSHA-required injury logs. By federal law, most employers must maintain the following safety documents:

• OSHA Form 300 –  Log of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses
• OSHA Form 300A – Summary of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses
• OSHA Form 301 – Injury and Illness Incident Report

Employers with 10 or fewer employees at all times during the preceding calendar year are exempt from the federal requirement, though many states may impose more stringent requirements.

Record near misses. Often, near misses – in which property damage, injury or fatality were narrowly avoided – can provide data that’s just as valuable as for incidents resulting in actual damages or injuries. This information can prove vital to informing prevention efforts.

Perhaps most importantly, carefully documenting all safety incidents and near misses, however minor, may help establish a culture of safety throughout the organization. 

BGES Group, located in Larchmont, N.Y. are New York Construction Insurance Specialists that represent 50+ companies and all the BEST general & umbrella liability programs!  We offer every coverage you need including property, builders risk, inland marine, general liability, umbrella liability, auto, bid & performance bonds, workers’ compensation, N.Y.S. disability and group health.  We are extremely responsive, responsible, trustworthy, fast, minimize your insurance headaches, we don’t charge ridiculous policy or service fees and when you call, text or email, whatever time of day, even weekends, we are ARE THERE to help YOU! 

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

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

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

e-mail: bgesgroup@gmail.com

website: http://www.bgesgroup.com

© – Copyright – 2023 – BGES Group

Insurers are increasingly using social media to track down workers who are perpetrating workers’ comp and other liability fraud by faking injuries or staying on the dole after they have healed. 

Investigators are increasingly making use of Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and other online social media sites to nab claimants who are fraudulently trying to collect payments. But while social media can be a goldmine of information on claimants, investigators have to act ethically and should do so quickly, experts say. 

If an injured worker posts pics of themselves being active on Facebook, it gives investigators quick, actionable evidence for their probes. But that’s only if the images are shared publicly and not just with their friends. 

Workers claiming disability payments gift investigators evidence when they post photos of themselves being fit and active on Facebook, for example, but only if the images are shared publicly, experts say.

While insurers are doing their part, employers are also getting in on the action. According to a report in the trade publication Business Insurance, one large grocery chain conducts social media research for auto and general liability claims and other employers research the social media profiles of all injured workers who have workers’ comp lost-time claims.

Many firms have started using social media investigation software that can quickly help them find an individual’s address, phone number and their relatives or associates by indexing sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

And while many people share their personal information and posts with friends, some post everything publicly. But, by researching the profiles of a claimant’s family and friends, investigators usually can find pictures and other information that has been publicly shared about the claimant on other people’s pages.

While this takes some time, they can usually find recent pictures or videos of anyone using this method, investigators say. 

Investigators are also using something called “geofencing.” The practice involves using GPS or radio frequency identification to search for public social media posts that were uploaded within a certain distance of an incident, like a car accident.

Sometimes they are able to locate photos of videos taken by bystanders who have 
publicly shared posts. And since most posts on Facebook, for example, use GPS to show location, this can be extremely useful to investigators. 

Often, they can even find potential witnesses to an incident. 

Use with caution
While social media can provide valuable information to prove insurance fraud or abuse, the key is to use this technique ethically. For example, investigators should not dupe someone into accepting them as a “friend” so they can then start rooting through their social media posts. 

At the same time, investigators should not try the same tactic with the individual’s friends or family members to gain insight. 

That said, if you are looking to control workers’ comp and litigation claim costs, you should add social media investigation into your tool kit if you suspect fraud. 

Experts advise employers to index information on claimants’ social media profiles as soon as possible after a claim is filed – and before they can edit their profile. 

Also, be aware that many applicant attorneys are warning their injured worker clients to not post on Facebook during their claims. 

Thomas Domer of the Domer Law firm in Wisconsin writes: “Use of a Facebook page poses real dangers for injured workers pursuing workers’ compensation benefits.

“Since Facebook is a public site, anything posted can be used by respondent insurance companies in claims denial. Even the most benign postings (birthday parties, family gatherings, etc.) can pose problems. For example, a grandparent lifting a 30 pound grandchild when doctors have imposed a 10 pound lifting limit could damage a claim.”

Social media busts
Here are two examples of social media investigations bearing fruit in regard to uncovering workers’ comp claims fraud.

The wayward nurse
A nurse in Ohio had filed for workers’ compensation after injuring herself on the job as an in-home care provider. But her employer smelled something fishy and did some research on her LinkedIn page, which showed she was performing the same kind of duties at three other employers as those that had caused her injury. 
So, while she was collecting workers’ comp benefits from one employer, she was still actively employed with others. After pleading guilty, she was ordered to pay back the $12,938 that had been paid to her in indemnity benefits – and was also sentenced to a year in jail. 

‘Disabled’ worker back on the job
A worker who was collecting workers’ comp benefits from an injury sustained on the job in Ohio was found to be working as a rescue technician for a company in Arizona, thanks to the pictures he had posted of himself on Facebook doing rapelling work. 
He pleaded guilty to fraud.

BGES Group, located in Larchmont, N.Y. are New York Construction Insurance Specialists that represent 50+ companies and all the BEST general & umbrella liability programs!  We offer every coverage you need including property, builders risk, inland marine, general liability, umbrella liability, auto, bid & performance bonds, workers’ compensation, N.Y.S. disability and group health.  We are extremely responsive, responsible, trustworthy, fast, minimize your insurance headaches, we don’t charge ridiculous policy or service fees and when you call, text or email, whatever time of day, even weekends, we are ARE THERE to help YOU! 

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

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

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

e-mail: bgesgroup@gmail.com

website: http://www.bgesgroup.com

© – Copyright – 2023 – BGES Group

Are you due for a workers’ compensation premium audit? Audits are how insurance rates are determined, and it’s possible that an audit will uncover information that can actually save you money. In any case, it pays to be prepared. These five tips can help you get ready.

1. Let your broker know when there are changes in your staffing, payroll or areas of operation. This is important not just at audit time but all the time. Your rates are based on variable rating information, including the number of employees, job classifications, the states in which you operate, etc. Updated information results in more accurate premium assessments.
2. Get your records ready. Your auditor will need to see records such as federal and state tax returns, ledgers, checkbooks, contracts and employee or contractor tax documents. If you prepare your records in advance, you’ll speed up the audit process.
3. Make sure you break out various types of compensation in your records. For example, to set your premium, your broker considers pay but not contributions to employee benefits packages and other perks, so it’s important to make sure your records are clear on the various types of compensation. Also make sure overtime pay is clearly defined since it’s classified as regular pay for workers’ compensation insurance purposes.
4. Ensure that contractors have their own insurance. This is important not only from an audit standpoint but from a liability prospective as well. If an uninsured contractor has an accident while performing work on your behalf, you can be held liable. If an audit identifies contractors for whom you don’t have certificates of coverage, you can be charged for their premiums.
5. Remain on hand to answer questions. As your auditor reviews your material, he or she may have questions or need additional data. If you are available to provide answers, your audit will be completed more quickly.

By following these tips, you’ll be more prepared for your workers’ compensation premium audit. A fast, efficient audit process can save time for both you and your auditor, so it pays to be prepared.

BGES Group, located in Larchmont, N.Y. are New York Construction Insurance Specialists that represent 50+ companies and all the BEST general & umbrella liability programs!  We offer every coverage you need including property, builders risk, inland marine, general liability, umbrella liability, auto, bid & performance bonds, workers’ compensation, N.Y.S. disability and group health.  We are extremely responsive, responsible, trustworthy, fast, minimize your insurance headaches, we don’t charge ridiculous policy or service fees and when you call, text or email, whatever time of day, even weekends, we are ARE THERE to help YOU! 

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

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

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

e-mail: bgesgroup@gmail.com

website: http://www.bgesgroup.com

© – Copyright – 2023 – BGES Group

Workers’ compensation insurance provides coverage for medical benefits and wage replacement when an employee is injured or killed on the job. When an injured employee accepts workers’ compensation payments, he or she legally gives up the right to sue the employer later for damages or negligence. This is commonly known as the compensation bargain, and it is meant to provide a compromise between the two sides. One of the problems solved by this bargain is employer insolvency. If employers did not have workers’ compensation insurance, they could lose their entire company to pay for damages awarded to an injured worker by the court. For this collective liability system to work, individual immunity is a necessity. It ensures the adequate compensation of injured parties.

Compensation plans may vary from one jurisdiction to another based on several factors. However, payments to injured claimants may be made on a weekly basis. In this instance, workers’ compensation is similar to disability insurance. It provides compensation to replace lost wages at the same rate or almost the same rate. Also, claimants receive compensation for their medical expenses. This insurance works similar to traditional health insurance when covering medical costs. If a worker is killed on the job due to unsafe conditions or negligence of the employer, the dependents of the deceased worker may collect benefits. When this happens, the insurance is structured similar to life insurance. It pays for funeral costs and other final expenses. 

It is important to note that workers’ compensation insurance is not similar to a judgment from a lawsuit. If an injured worker or the survivor of an individual who was killed on the job filed a lawsuit, other damages may be awarded. For example, compensation may be made for pain, suffering and punitive damages. With workers’ compensation insurance, these extra damages are not recognized. The coverage only pays for expenses directly related to the incident. Today, injuries may be verified by more than one medical professional. This is because workers’ compensation fraud has been on the rise in recent years. Dishonest doctors and other professionals have worked with people to fake injuries and create false documentation. The cost of fraud is then distributed to everyone who pays for workers’ compensation insurance. An agent can help by giving tips to prevent workers’ compensation fraud and tips for identifying it. To learn more about workers’ compensation coverage, discuss with an agent.

BGES Group, located in Larchmont, N.Y. are New York Construction Insurance Specialists that represent 50+ companies and all the BEST general & umbrella liability programs!  We offer every coverage you need including property, builders risk, inland marine, general liability, umbrella liability, auto, bid & performance bonds, workers’ compensation, N.Y.S. disability and group health.  We are extremely responsive, responsible, trustworthy, fast, minimize your insurance headaches, we don’t charge ridiculous policy or service fees and when you call, text or email, whatever time of day, even weekends, we are ARE THERE to help YOU! 

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

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

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

e-mail: bgesgroup@gmail.com

website: http://www.bgesgroup.com

© – Copyright – 2023 – BGES Group