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Creating a safer worksite is every employer's responsibility and one of the best ways to save on Contractor Insurance. At a minimum, you should follow all Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) safety standards to avoid penalties and minimize the risk of injury. However, construction worksites are hazardous by nature, and injuries are always possible.

One of OSHA's safety standards is medical and first aid to help ensure that injured employees receive the best medical care as quickly as possible. "First aid refers to medical attention that is usually administered immediately after the injury occurs and at the location where it occurred. It often consists of a one-time, short-term treatment and requires little technology or training to administer," OSHA states. "First aid can include cleaning minor cuts, scrapes, or scratches; treating a minor burn; applying bandages and dressings; the use of non-prescription medicine; draining blisters; removing debris from the eyes; massage; and drinking fluids to relieve heat stress."

First Aid Assessment

Every job site is different; therefore, every site should be assessed to ensure proper first aid is available. First, identify and mitigate potential hazards. At the same time, identify the types of injuries possible and the first aid that may be required for those injuries. Develop your first aid program based on that assessment and OSHA's standards and regulations. Continue to reassess throughout the project as job sites, conditions, hazards, and first aid needs can change.

First Aid Training

OSHA states. "In the absence of an infirmary, clinic, hospital, or physician that is reasonably accessible in terms of time and distance to the worksite, which is available for the treatment of injured employees, a person who has a valid certificate in first-aid training from the U.S. Bureau of Mines, the American Red Cross, or equivalent training that can be verified by documentary evidence, shall be available at the worksite to render first aid."

But what is considered "reasonably accessible in terms of time and distance to worksite"? "Medical literature establishes that, for serious injuries such as those involving stopped breathing, cardiac arrest, or uncontrolled bleeding, first aid treatment must be provided within the first few minutes to avoid permanent medical impairment or death," OSHA states. "Accordingly, in workplaces where serious accidents such as those involving falls, suffocation, electrocution, or amputation are possible, emergency medical services must be available within 3-4 minutes…"

One way to ensure that you follow OSHA's standards and provide prompt medical attention for injured employees is to have at least one employee trained in first aid on each worksite (regardless of the location of the closest medical facility). That training should include basic first aid, CPR, and the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED). Additional training may be required depending on your assessment of potential injuries on the worksite. And don't forget to have those individuals recertified as needed.

In addition to at least one worker trained in first aid, all workers should understand their role in worksite first aid. They should understand the hazards and potential injuries. They should also know the protocol if someone is injured and requires first aid, including who to contact, where to find that person, how to explain their location, and where first aid kits and emergency equipment are located. And finally, they should know not to administer first aid themselves unless they are trained because they could cause more harm than good.

First Aid Kits

What good is someone trained in first aid if they don't have the tools and supplies they need to treat an injured worker? One or more first aid kits should be readily available on every worksite. The contents of that first aid kit should be based on the first aid assessment and the worksite size. OSHA's recommendation for "the minimally acceptable number and type of first-aid supplies for first-aid kits" for a small worksite of two or three workers includes the following:

• Gauze pads (at least 4 x 4 inches).
• Two large gauze pads (at least 8 x 10 inches).
• Box adhesive bandages (band-aids).
• One package gauze roller bandage at least 2 inches wide.
• Two triangular bandages.
• Wound cleaning agent such as sealed moistened towelettes.
• Scissors.
• At least one blanket.
• Tweezers.
• Adhesive tape.
• Latex gloves.
• Resuscitation equipment such as a resuscitation bag, airway, or pocket mask.
• Two elastic wraps.
• Splint.
• Directions for requesting emergency assistance.

Lower Your Contractor Insurance Bill the Easy Way

Keeping workers as safe as possible and ensuring proper medical treatment is available is a smart business move.

So is working with the experienced independent agents at American Insuring Group. We will perform an in-depth review of your business to ensure you have the right contractor or construction insurance and compare the cost of that insurance among many competing carriers to ensure you get the best price for the right coverage!

Call us today at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848, or connect with us online.

The right Contractors Insurance helps protect you, your business, and your employees; however, minimizing the risk of injuries, litigations, property damage, etc., helps keep your insurance and other administrative costs down. We all know construction sites are filled with safety hazards and risks, such as working at heights, falling objects, excessive noise, electrical hazards, etc.

“In 2020, construction laborers saw their highest annual fatal injury count (308) in the last 5 years,” according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). “Construction laborers accounted for almost a third of all fatal injuries in construction and extraction occupations in 2020, the highest proportion since 2016.”

Winter weather - such as extreme cold, frigid winds, snow, and ice - adds to the year-round hazards. We were lucky to have a mild winter here in the northeast last year, but experts predict lots of rain/sleet and snowstorms this winter. Therefore, it would be wise to hope for the best but prepare for the worst when keeping your worksites safe this winter.

Construction Site Winter Hazards

To properly mitigate any risk, you need first to consider potential hazards:

• Extreme cold
• High winds
• Icy roads and surfaces
• Snow and ice on scaffolding, equipment, etc.
• Frozen pipes
• Downed powerlines

Along with the potential result of those hazards:

• Slipping and falling
• Loss of dexterity
• Loss of alertness
• Cold stress (cold-related illnesses and injuries)

Winter Safety Tips for Contractors

Watch Weather Forecasts. There are plenty of weather apps today, so you can keep an eye on the weather forecast to ensure you don’t send your workers out in dangerous conditions, such as a blizzard.

Remove Snow and Ice From the Worksite. Before work begins, a supervisor should survey the worksite to determine any potential hazards. Snow should be removed from the worksite to prevent slips and falls, and salt or sand should be applied to melt ice.

Require Proper Clothing and Gear. The right clothing can help protect your workers. Wearing layers is always a good idea so workers can adjust what they’re wearing as the weather changes. The “layering system” consists of three layers – the base layer to regulate your body temperature and wick away moisture from the skin, the mid-layer to provide insulation, and the outer layer to protect you from the wind and snow.

Based on weather conditions, workers should also wear heavy-duty work boots with good traction, appropriate coats, warm socks, gloves, hard hat liners, and eye protection.

Provide Heated Breaks When temperatures are particularly frigid, workers must limit their exposure to the elements. Provide a heated area, such as a heated trailer or a tent with a portable heater, where they can take breaks and escape the elements.

Avoid Caffeine According to BC First Aid, to prevent frostbite and hypothermia, you should “avoid caffeine and alcohol, which hinder the body´s heat-producing mechanisms and will actually cause the body´s core temperature to drop.”

Recognize the Symptoms of Cold Stress. Anyone who has to work in a cold environment may be at risk of cold stress. “Cold stress occurs by driving down the skin temperature, and eventually the internal body temperature,” according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). “When the body is unable to warm itself, serious cold-related illnesses and injuries may occur, and permanent tissue damage and death may result.” Cold-related injuries include hypothermia, frostbite, chilblains, and trench foot.

OSHA reports the risk factors for cold stress include the following:

• Wetness/dampness, dressing improperly, and exhaustion
• Predisposing health conditions such as hypertension, hypothyroidism, and diabetes
• Poor physical conditioning

OSHA provides this “Cold Stress Guide,” which lists the symptoms of the different types of cold stress and what to do if any of your workers experience them.

Lower Your Contractor Insurance Bill the Easy Way!

At American Insuring Group, we do more than provide you with affordable contractor and construction insurance. We perform an in-depth review of your business. Then, we compare the costs and types of liability insurance for contractors among many competing carriers, providing you with multiple contractor insurance quotes and our recommendation on the best choice for your business. 

Call us today at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848, or connect with us online.

The right Contractor Insurance can help protect you, your employees, and your business. One serious workplace injury, lawsuit, or cyber-attack can put you out of business if you don't have proper insurance.

But how do you know what is the "proper" insurance for your needs? Understand common Contractor Insurance myths and work with one of the experienced independent insurance agents at American Insuring Group, who can walk you through the process and answer all your insurance questions.

7 Common Contractor Insurance Myths

Myth 1: A General Liability policy or umbrella policy will cover me.

FACT: General Liability protects your business premises from hazards, such as someone falling and injuring themselves in your office; however, it doesn't cover an employee who is injured on the job.

And Commercial Umbrella Insurance does not provide primary liability coverage. It offers additional coverage on liability claims on your existing insurance policies if a claim exceeds your policy's limit.

Myth 2: It's just me and another guy who helps out a couple of hours a week, so I do not need to carry Workers' Compensation Insurance.

FACT: The PA Department of Labor & Industry states, "Workers' compensation coverage is mandatory for most employers under Pennsylvania law. Employers who do not have workers' compensation coverage may be subject to lawsuits by employees and to criminal prosecution by the commonwealth." This includes both full and part-time employees, even if they are family members. There are very few exceptions.

Truthfully, even if you have no employees, Workers' Compensation Insurance is a good investment. How long do you think you and your family could survive without your income if you're injured on the job? Workers' Compensation pays for medical expenses and part of your lost wages if you are injured on the job. 

Myth 3: I don't need commercial auto insurance.

FACT: This is true if neither you nor your employees ever use a vehicle for business. However, your personal auto insurance will probably not cover injuries or damage if a vehicle (owned by the company, you, or someone else) is used for business purposes.

Myth 4: Only large construction companies get sued.

FACT: One poll found that 43% of small-business owners have been threatened with or involved in a civil lawsuit, and the cost of litigation ranges from $3,000 to $150,000, according to SCORE. "The financial hits of litigation can be far more damaging to small businesses than to large ones, which often staff in-house legal counsel and devote a portion of their budget to legal defense," SCORE advises. Could your business survive a $100,000 lawsuit if you needed to pay it out of pocket? The right Contractor Insurance helps pay for legal costs and judgments against your business.

Myth 5: As a small construction company, I'm safe from cyber-attacks.

FACT: Forbes reports that 43% of cyber-attacks target small businesses. "If you're still in denial about the chances of your small business becoming a victim, 61% of all SMBs [small to medium-sized businesses] have reported at least one cyber-attack during the previous year," Forbes states. "Despite the staggering numbers, 91% of small businesses haven't purchased cyber liability insurance. This truly reflects how unaware and unprepared small business owners are to deal with security breaches." 

Myth 6: Contractor Insurance is too expensive.

FACT: The right insurance policy is affordable, protects your business, and provides peace of mind. Without insurance, one significant accident or lawsuit could put your construction company out of business, which makes insurance a smart investment. 

Myth 7: I'm better off buying Contractor Insurance directly with an insurance company rather than an independent agent.

FACT: You will pay the same insurance premiums whether you buy directly from the insurance company or through an independent agent. The difference is that an independent agent will check the cost of your insurance premiums with several companies to ensure you get the best deal. Furthermore, agents specializing in Contractor Insurance can answer your questions, help ensure you have the proper coverage, and be there for you if you have any issues.

How to Find an Independent Agent Who Specializes in Contractor Insurance

The independent insurance agents at American Insuring Group specialize in Contractor Insurance. We can ensure you have the right insurance to protect your business at the lowest cost. We compare rates among competing insurance companies to save you money!

Call us today at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848, or connect with us online.

As a general contractor, it may feel as if you’re a Jack of all trades, but sometimes you need to call in an expert (or a subcontractor) – an electrician, plumber, carpenter, etc. – on a project. And sometimes, you are the expert hired as a subcontractor.

Whether you are the general contractor or the subcontractor, your business success depends on your understanding of your legal liability and the right Contractor Insurance to protect you from that liability if something goes wrong. Furthermore, having the right liability insurance helps build trust with potential clients and can result in bigger contracts.

General Contractor vs. Subcontractor

Sometimes the line between a contractor and a subcontractor is a little fuzzy. Generally, a contractor is hired by and works for the client on a project. However, a contractor is not an employee of the client. They work for them on a contractual basis, which means the contractor is responsible for fulfilling the contract and is liable for the entire project, even if the problem occurs with something a subcontractor did.

Subcontractors are hired by general contractors to perform a specific task or service. A subcontractor reports to and is liable to the general contractor. If a problem occurs with something a subcontractor did, the client may sue the contractor, who may, in turn, sue the subcontractor.

Most Common Contractor Liability Claims

The best defense against liability claims is first understanding your biggest risks and then either transferring those risks or ensuring those risks are covered by the right insurance. The following are the two most common types of liability claims contractors face:

1. Construction Defects – Construction defects include poor workmanship, improper or defective material, or a failure to follow construction codes. Examples of common construction defects include structural integrity, water intrusion, mechanical problems, electrical issues, etc.
   
   
2. Construction Delays – Delays are frustrating and costly and can happen for many reasons – weather, defective plans, labor shortages, equipment failures, etc. Some delays you have some control over, and others you do not. Either way, clients can sue if there are significant delays in the project.

Contractor Insurance

There are several types of contractor insurance that can protect both contractors and subcontractors. Depending on the scope of the work you do, you probably don’t need all of them, but it’s important to understand what is available to you.

General Liability Insurance – CGL is relevant to any business and helps protect your business from financial loss that results in property damage, bodily injury, libel, slander, lawsuits, and settlements or judgments.

Workers Compensation Insurance – Workers' Compensation (WC) Insurance is mandated by Pennsylvania (and most other states) for all employers. WC was designed to protect employees injured on the job by providing lost wages, medical expenses, disability expenses, and funeral costs. As a no-fault benefit, WC also helps protect your business from direct lawsuits by employees injured on the job. Failure to comply can lead to misdemeanor or felony charges and fines.

Commercial Property Insurance - Commercial Property Insurance helps repair or replace your physical assets, such as the building, furniture, computers, inventory, etc., if they are damaged by fire, hail, lightning, windstorms, vandalism, and explosions.  

Builders Risk Insurance - Builders’ Risk Insurance - also called Course of Construction Insurance or Inland Marine coverage – is a temporary insurance policy that helps protect a renovation or new building while under construction. It typically covers a building, structure, materials, tools, and equipment on a job site, in transit, or stored elsewhere during construction or renovation.

Commercial Auto Insurance - If you use a vehicle to conduct business, such as transporting materials, equipment, or employees, you should have commercial automobile insurance to help protect you in the event of an accident that causes bodily injury, loss of life, or property damage. 

Professional Liability Insurance - Professional Liability Insurance goes by many names, such as Errors and Omissions and E & O insurance. Professional Liability Insurance protects your business if you face a lawsuit claiming you made a mistake in your professional services - whether or not you actually made a mistake.

Umbrella Insurance - Insurance liability policies include a limit (the maximum amount an insurer will pay if a claim is filed). Commercial Umbrella Insurance helps cover the difference if a claim exceeds a policy's limit.

Cyber Insurance - Cyber Insurance helps cover your business' liability for data breaches that involve sensitive information, such as credit card numbers, driver's license numbers, and health records

Pollution Liability Insurance - Pollution Liability Insurance protects your business if you're held liable for a pollution incident on a worksite.

Gap Insurance – Often overlooked, Gap Insurance helps cover the cost difference to pay off a lease balance when a vehicle's value is less than the leasing company's payoff in a total loss accident.

Business Income Coverage/ Business Interruption – If you are forced to shut down your business after experiencing covered property damage (such as fires, storms, etc.), Business Income coverage can help replace lost income.

Get the Right Contractor Insurance!

The right insurance helps protect both contractors and subcontractors from the liabilities they face. The experienced independent agents at American Insuring Group will help you get the right insurance to protect your business at the lowest cost.

Call today at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848, or connect with us online.

Reducing worksite hazards can help save Contractor Insurance costs, and one significant worksite hazard is power tools, including circular saws. “Approximately 40,000 Americans go to hospital emergency rooms every year with injuries sustained while operating table saws.  About 4,000 of those injuries – or more than 10 every day – are amputations,” according to the National Consumers League. “Table saw injuries cost the United States approximately $2 billion every year.”

Circular saws are a mainstay at most construction worksites; however, these indispensable power tools also come with many hazards:

• Projected particles
• Electric shocks
• Breakage of the disc
• Cuts and amputations
• Blows caused by objects
• Abrasions and becoming trapped
• Overstrain
• Ambient noise

If you want to lower insurance and other operating costs, it’s crucial that you train your workers on these hazards and how to avoid them.

30 Circular Saw Safety Tips

1. Wear safety glasses
2. Wear hearing protection
3. Wear a respirator or dust mask
4. Keep long hair tied back and avoid wearing loose clothing and jewelry
5. Prepare a stable surface
6. Keep the area clear of debris, cutoffs, sawdust, etc.
7. Check safety features before using a saw
8. Check the saw for proper blade rotation
9. Do not start with the blade engaged
10. Allow the saw to reach full power before cutting
11. Set the depth of the saw to 1/8” thicker than the material being cut
12. Do not alter the manufacturer’s guard
13. Don’t cut with a dull blade
14. Select the correct blade for the material being cut
15. Don’t try to twist the blade while cutting
16. Don’t try to remove the blade while it is cutting
17. Before starting and frequently while cutting, ensure that the blade guard works freely
18. Be aware of knots, foreign objects such as staples or screws, and sap in the wood
19. Cut smaller material from larger material first
20. Use an outfeed table or stand when cutting large pieces of material
21. Use a push stick when the material has less than six inches of width of stock away from the blade
22. Stand to the side when cutting material to protect you from kickback
23. Maintain a solid stance with a wide base to maintain balance
24. Do not reach over a moving blade
25. Keep two hands on the saw
26. Do not force the saw while cutting
27. Keep electrical cords clear of the cutting path
28. Unplug the saw before making adjustments, replacing the blade, or repairing the saw
29. Do not move or carry the saw with your hand or finger on the trigger switch
30. Take extra precaution if you are left-handed, as circular saws are designed for right-handed people

Want to Lower Your Contractors Insurance Costs?

Want to lower your Contractor Insurance costs? It’s simple (not always easy, but simple). Create a safer work environment, which results in fewer injuries, fewer claims, and lower operating costs, including insurance premiums, along with happier, more productive employees and a healthier bottom line.

American Insuring Group can help. As Contractor Insurance experts, we provide a variety of money-saving topics (from policy review tips to contractual risk transfer) and safety-related tips (from protecting construction workers from traumatic brain injuries and circular saw accidents to safe lifting practices). Furthermore, as independent agents, we compare the cost of your coverage with several carriers to ensure you pay the lowest premium.

Don't Wait. Give us a call today at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848, or connect with us online for a free insurance quote!

Toolbox talks are designed to improve safety, minimize the risk of injury, and save money – including Contractor Insurance costs. Construction sites are filled with hazards. “In 2020, 4,764 workers in the United States suffered fatal work injuries,” according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. “Over that period, the private construction industry accounted for 1,008 deaths or 21.2 percent of total deaths.” 

Hand and power tools are a necessity on any construction site, but even the simplest tool can become a hazard when poorly maintained or misused. 

Using the Wrong Tool

Using the right tool for the job may seem so apparent that a toolbox talk addressing the issue appears silly. However, many workers – knowingly or unknowingly – break this rule. For example, imagine a worker discovers he missed that last screw and has already put his drill away, but his pocket knife is handy, so he uses it to drive in that last screw.

You’ve probably seen something similar on a worksite or perhaps even did it yourself. Nine times out of ten, everything goes just fine, but it only takes one time – the blade slips and causes a severe laceration, damages material, breaks a tool, etc. – to become an issue. 

Examples of Using the Wrong Tool:

• Using a tool for a purpose, it was never intended for
• Using a damaged tool
• Using the right tool incorrectly
• Improperly modifying a tool
• Not taking proper safety precautions, such as not wearing appropriate PPE when needed

Reasons workers may not use the right tool:

• They haven’t been trained properly
• They don’t know the hazards
• They don’t know the correct tool to use
• They think an injury can’t happen to them
• It seems easier

Workers can minimize the risk of many injuries by understanding what tool is suitable for the job (and using it) and properly maintaining their tools. A toolbox talk addressing the issue can remind workers of the dangers of using the wrong tool and minimize some of the hazards workers face every day.

Hazards of Using the Wrong Tool

The first step is to remind workers of the hazards of using the wrong tool. They could…

• Injure themselves – getting an electrical shock or electrocution by using uninsulated steel tools
• Injure someone else – a loose, splintered, or cracked wooden handle on a hammer or axe can cause the head of the tool to fly off and hit someone else
• Damage materials – cracking tiles by using the wrong drill bit
• Break their tools – breaking a screwdriver by using it as a chisel or pry bar
• Cause an accident – starting a fire with an overworked, over-heated power tool
• Make the job more difficult than it needs to be – using a dull saw or the wrong type of saw to cut materials

Proper Training

Proper training – including toolbox talks - is crucial. Workers need to understand that your business prioritizes safety and how to use and maintain tools properly. 

The U.S. Department of Labor offers five basic safety rules to help prevent hazards associated with the use of tools:

1. Keep all tools in good condition with regular maintenance.
2. Use the right tool for the job.
3. Examine each tool for damage before use, and do not use damaged tools.
4. Operate tools according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Provide and use properly the right personal protective equipment.

Additional tool safety tips include the following:

6. Read the manufacturer’s instructions
7. Inspect all tools before use
8. Keep sharp tools covered when not in use
9. Store tools properly when not in use 

Get a Free Contractors Insurance Quote Today

Want to lower your Contractor Insurance costs? Call American Insuring Group at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848 or connect with us online for a free quote. As independent agents, we compare the cost of your coverage with several carriers to ensure you pay the lowest premium while getting the reliable coverage you need.

The more injuries your workers sustain, the higher your Contractors Insurance premiums. One all-to-common injury is traumatic brain injury (TBI) that results from falling debris, tools, and materials; flying objects; and hitting low beams. 

The construction industry has the highest number of fatal and nonfatal work-related (WR) TBIs. “From 2003 to 2010, 2,210 construction workers died because of a TBI (a rate of 2.6 per 100,000 full-time equivalent workers),” according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “These deaths represented 25% of all construction fatalities and 24% of all WR TBI fatalities among all industries during that period.” 

The CDC states, “More severe TBIs can impact a worker’s ability to return to their pre-injury job and be expensive for both workers and employers in long-term rehabilitation and disability costs.” And don’t think that just because you own or operate a small construction company, your workers are immune to TBIs because workers in small construction companies are 2.5 times more likely to die from a TBI. 

Protective headwear is an essential part of protecting construction workers from WR TBIs. In fact, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires construction employers to provide head protection for “employees working in areas where there is a possible danger of head injury from impact, falling or flying objects, or electrical shock and burns.” 

However, protective headwear does more than protect workers from WR TBIs. The appropriate hard hat or safety helmet can also protect workers from electrical shock, burns, and more. 

Not all hard hats are created equal, and the proper head protection depends on the type of hazards the worker will be subjected to. Here is some information about hard hats and safety helmets to help you and your workers choose the most suitable headgear. 

All Good Protective Headwear Should do the Following:

• Be water resistant
• Be slow burning
• Include a suspension system
• Be resistant to penetration and blows to the head
• Absorb impact
• Provide insulation from electrical shock
• Shield the worker’s scalp, face, shoulders, and neck 

Hard Hats Vs. Safety Helmets

There are two types of head protection – hard hats and safety helmets. The purpose of the traditional hard hat is to protect a worker’s head from objects falling from above; however, not all hazards come from above. Therefore, safety helmets - which are equipped with more internal padding, adjustable chin straps, a small brim, face shields, ear protection, and other safety features - might be a better choice in many cases. Safety helmets, which look and feel different than a hard hat, usually sit closer to the head and provide additional protection from lateral impacts. 

Classes and Types of Hard Hats and Safety Helmets

Hard hats and safety helmets that comply with OSHA standards are marked inside with a class and a type. The class and type are the same for both hats and helmets. 

The class is based on how much electrical protection the headwear provides:

CLASS G (general) has been tested to withstand low-voltage electrical conductors of up to 2,200 volts.

CLASS E (electrical) has been tested to withstand high-voltage electrical conductors of up to 20,000 volts.

CLASS C (conductive) provides no protection from electrical conductors. 

And there are two types of head protection:

TYPE 1 reduces impact force from hits to the top of the head.

TYPE 2 reduces impact force from hits to the top and sides of the head. 

Training, Fit, and Maintenance of Hard Hats and Safety Helmets

Workers should be trained on OSHA requirements, your company’s policies, when and how to wear a hard hat or safety helmet, what type of headgear is most appropriate for each job, and how to maintain protective headgear.

The top reason workers give for not wearing head protection is a bad fit, and a hard hat or safety helmet that does not fit correctly can reduce its effectiveness. To ensure a proper fit…

• The head harness should leave a 1 to1 ¼” gap between the hard shell of the hat and the worker’s head
• The headgear should not fall off the worker’s head when they bend over
• The rim should face forward 

Over time, hard hats and helmets take a beating, so workers should inspect them regularly for cracks, dents, etc., to the shell; tears and frays in the straps; and fading or chalky appearance in the plastic to ensure they continue to provide good head protection. If, upon inspection, any of these are discovered, the head protection should be replaced. 

Lower Your Contractors Insurance Cost

Want to learn more about minimizing injuries? Check out American Insuring Group’s blog.

Want to learn how you can lower your contractors insurance costs? Call American Insuring Group at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848 or connect with us online!

One of the most effective ways to lower Contractors Insurance costs is to reduce the number of claims. But unfortunately, construction sites are filled with hazards that cause injuries. In 2020, there were 165,300 injuries in construction, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), and the highest number of fatal work injuries (1,008) in any industry. 

One of the biggest causes of injuries in the construction industry is heavy equipment – boom lifts, backhoe loaders, bulldozers, etc. - which are, of course, an essential part of just about any worksite. According to OSHA, “Approximately 75% of struck-by fatalities involve heavy equipment such as trucks or cranes.” OSHA also reports that “being struck by vehicles, heavy equipment, and other objects is the top cause of injuries and the second cause of death for construction workers.” 

Heavy equipment accidents, such as the following, can cause lacerations, crushed or broken bones, spinal cord damage, internal damage, and more:

• Being pinned and/or crushed under heavy equipment
• Falling off heavy equipment
• Being struck by heavy equipment
• Rollover accidents
• Being run over or backed over by heavy equipment
• Being caught between two pieces of heavy equipment

Heavy Equipment Safety Tips

When you work with or around heavy equipment every day, it’s easy to become complacent, but everyone – operators and ground workers - should be alert wherever heavy equipment is used. Most construction site accidents can be avoided with these tips:

Owners/Managers Safety Tips

• Only allow trained (and, where required, certified) equipment operators
• Provide safety training
• Provide an operating manual to the operator
• Provide spotters where needed
• Install rollover protection on equipment
• Ensure good communication, such as standardized hand signals
• Maintain equipment
• Provide Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) where needed
• Provide proper lighting when appropriate

Operators Safety Tips

• Be familiar with the equipment
• Do not make sudden or sharp turns or swings
• Honk at intersections
• Wear seat belts
• Wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE
• Do not jump on or off of the equipment
• Understand the company’s policy on the right-of-way
• Inspect equipment before using
• Inspect the ground conditions, looking for holes, uneven surfaces, obstructions, etc.
• Work in well-lit areas
• Avoid working parallel to slopes or embankments
• Do not overload vehicles
• Only ride in approved seats
• Stay alert

Ground Worker Safety Tips

• Wear high-visibility clothing
• Do not stay in equipment blind spots
• Avoid working near heavy equipment
• Ensure that the operator sees you before approaching them

 Crane Safety Tips

The Construction Center of Excellence reports that approximately 82 deaths occur every year due to crane accidents at construction sites and offers these safety tips specific to cranes, such as mobile, overhead, gantry, and jib cranes:

• Know load limitations and the weight of the load to be lifted.
• Evaluate the center of gravity of the load when attaching the rigging.
• Ensure rigging and cribbing is adequate to support the crane and the load.
• Understand the reach and travel limits of the crane before moving the load to avoid extra handling, sudden stops, and uncontrolled load swings.
• Ensure the crane is able to move the load without tipping.
• Inspect ground conditions, outriggers, and weather before lifting a load.

5 Backup Safety Tips

The Construction Center of Excellence reports that “one out of four accidents occur because of bad backing-up techniques and procedures.” The report also states that backing-up accidents account for 500 deaths and 1,500 injuries annually. (2014 study)” Here are backup safety tips.

• Inspect your vehicle and identify potential overhead or underground hazards
• Identify blind spots
• Work with a spotter when appropriate
• Watch your speed
• Identify overhead and underneath obstructions (powerlines, trees, trenches)

Lower Contractor's Insurance Costs the Quick and Easy Way

Want to learn more about how to lower the cost of your Contractors Insurance? Call American Insuring Group at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848 or connect with us online. We specialize in Contractors Insurance and understand the unique challenges and needs of the industry.

We'll compare competing insurance providers to find you the coverage you need at a great price!

One of the best ways to lower Contractor Insurance costs is by creating safer worksites. Construction sites are filled with hazards – moving vehicles, falling objects, heavy equipment, etc. These are the more noticeable hazards because if an accident occurs, it's immediately apparent. One hazard that may not be as obvious is cold winter weather because the harmful effects of cold weather may not appear immediately. 

Hazards of Working in Cold Weather

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states, "Anyone who has to work in a cold environment may be at risk of cold-related illnesses and injuries, or 'cold stress.'" Here are cold-related illnesses and injuries to watch for.

Hypothermia – When exposed to the cold, your body loses heat faster than it can produce. Extended exposure to cold temperatures can result in the loss of your body's stored energy, leading to hypothermia or dangerously low body temperatures. Hypothermia can occur at temperatures above 40 degrees F if you're chilled by sweat or snow.

Frostbite – The Mayo Clinic describes frostbite as "an injury caused by freezing of the skin and underlying tissues." Body parts particularly prone to frostbite are fingers, toes, nose, and ears. Frostbite can occur when the air temperature is below 32 degrees F.

Trench Foot – When your feet are wet and cold for an extended time, moisture can cause your feet to lose heat, which can slow blood flow and damage tissue. 

3 Tips to Avoid Cold Weather Hazards

Training
Empower your workers to make smart choices by training them on working in cold weather. That training should include the following:

• The hazards of cold weather
• Proper PPE
• Symptoms of hypothermia, frostbite, and trench foot
• How to treat these conditions

Personal Protective Equipment PPE
The right PPE can help protect your workers from the dangers of cold weather and help lower your Contractor Insurance costs. Plus, comfortable and healthy workers are more productive. OSHA does not require that employers provide ordinary clothing used solely for protection from the weather, such as coats, gloves, and hats; however, sometimes, it makes good business sense to do so.

• Heavy-Duty Work Boots – Feet are particularly susceptible to frostbite. Waterproof leather boots with rubber bottoms and a warm lining are typically best when working in cold weather.
• Insulated Gloves – Which gloves are best depends on the type of work you are performing. Typically, the best gloves provide a thin nylon layer against your skin to wick moisture away, a liner for insulation, and a thicker exterior. Water-resistant materials are a must if your hands will be submerged in water or snow.
• Hard Hat Liners – Hard hat liners can help protect your head, neck, and ears when working in cold weather.
• Eye Protection – The sun's glare reflecting off snow can be intense. Polarized safety glasses with anti-fog and foam lining are the best defense against sun glare and the wind.

Clothing Layers
Layering clothing is key to keeping warm and safe in any weather. There are three layers you should consider:

• Base layer – The base layer sits directly against your skin and should wick away moisture and regulate your body temperature. Synthetic, merino wool, or silk materials are good options but avoid cotton.
• Mid Layer – The next layer should provide insulation. Merino wool, micro-fleece, and soft shells are good choices.
• Outer Layer – The outer layer should protect you from wind, rain, and snow. This layer should be breathable and either water-resistant or waterproof. 

Call Us If You Want to Save On Contractor Insurance!

Another step to lowering Contractor insurance costs is calling American Insuring Group at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848 or connecting with us online. Our independent agents will compare the cost of your insurance with several insurance companies to ensure that you pay the lowest premium.

To help you lower Contractors Insurance costs, we share many blogs and tips about keeping workers safe because fewer accidents translate to lower costs. We all know that construction sites – with large pieces of machinery, power tools, moving vehicles, and heavy objects - can be hazardous places. After all, the National Safety Council (NSC) reports that the construction industry experienced the most workplace deaths in 2020.

Typically, construction site accidents do involve workers; however, your workers don’t work in a bubble. Worksite hazards can also affect the public; therefore, construction safety must go beyond protecting workers.

You also need to consider the safety of the public to ensure your work activities don’t put them in harm’s way. The public – pedestrians and drivers - can be particularly susceptible to worksite injuries because, unlike your employees, they probably have not received safety training. Therefore, they may not recognize hazards common to construction sites.

Assess the Site

Every project occurs in a different environment, which makes potential hazards to the public unique to each worksite. Therefore, the first step to protecting the public is to assess potential risks at each worksite and determine how your work could impact the public. This assessment should occur before work begins and periodically throughout the project, as potential hazards can change.

This assessment should help you determine worksite boundaries. It should be crystal clear where public space ends and construction zones begin. Unfortunately, many accidents occur when adults or children - unaware of the dangers construction sites may pose - inadvertently wander into construction zones.

Setting Boundaries

The NSC states “the entire project perimeter and specific hazards within the project site” should be fenced and gated, and “multiple warning signs on the fence instructing the public that this is a construction site” should be installed.

To determine the proper fencing for a particular project, you should consider the following:

• How busy the area is. How many cars and pedestrians will pass by your worksite?
• The type of construction.
• Location of site and proximity to other buildings
• Existing boundaries

5 Most Common Construction Site Hazards to the Public

Once the boundaries are clearly marked, the next step is to look at what type of hazards your worksite may pose to the public and take measures to keep the public safe. Here are the five most common construction site hazards to look for and tips to avoid them:

1. Falling Objects – Construct sidewalk sheds around the walkways where appropriate and install netting or use toe boards on scaffolds so falling objects are caught before hitting anyone. 
   
   
2. Falling into holes, trenches, and other openings - These openings should be covered and barricaded with warning signs posted.
   
   
3. Being struck by moving vehicles - During construction, nearby traffic patterns may change. If the new route is not clearly marked, drivers or pedestrians can end up in the path of construction vehicles. Therefore, erecting barricades and using signage is imperative. If the area receives heavy traffic – especially during rush hour – a flag person should help direct vehicles. Pedestrians are even more vulnerable to moving vehicles; therefore, if sidewalks are rerouted, they must have a clearly identified alternate route that is ADA-accessible. Adequate lighting can also help eliminate accidents.
   
   
4. Scaffolding – To avoid the public being hit by scaffolding, ensure that there is enough room when erecting scaffolding and that it is properly constructed and maintained.
   
   
5. Materials – Materials that are stacked or stored outside the worksite perimeter can cause tripping hazards. Hazardous or flammable materials can also cause injuries. Therefore, keeping materials within the worksite perimeter and hazardous materials stored in approved storage lockers is best.

Don’t Overpay For Contractor Insurance!

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, accidents occur, which is why Contractor Insurance is vital to protect your business. At American Insuring Group, we perform an in-depth review of your business. Then, we compare the costs and types of liability insurance among several competing carriers, providing you with multiple quotes and our recommendation on the best choice for your business.

So start saving today on your Contractor Insurance costs by calling us at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848, or connect with us online.