Author, Kevin Howard, Account Executive, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc.
As we continually build broad and competitive insurance programs for solar contractors in southern California, we recently interviewed a Senior Underwriter from a national workers’ compensation carrier in an effort to learn best practice controls for these types of risks. To our delight, this underwriter provided the top five controls their team looks for while reviewing a submission to quote. Having these controls in place can show an underwriter that your company deserves the best possible pricing available in the insurance marketplace:
1. Fall Protection
A written fall protection plan is in place and available for review
Employee training is documented
A competent person is able to assess fall hazards through a written hazard assessment prior to installation
There is familiarity with all fall arrest systems (e.g., yo-yos, ropes, lanyards, harnesses, and guardrails)
Rescue procedures and training on rescuing is in place
Assembly, maintenance, inspection, handling and storage of fall protection equipment is documented and organized
2. Responsive and Thorough Claim Reporting
Claims are reported same day
Claims are documented for future training opportunities
Witness statements from co-workers are documented
3. Outsourcing Delivery of Solar Panels to a Third Party
Minimizes the driving exposure to and from the jobsite
Lowers the material handling exposure
Reduces any potential lifting exposure while on a jobsite
4. Create a Smaller Radius of Work
Lessening of your company’s driving exposure, which in turn can lower the probability of any car accident leading to a claim
Company vehicles to return the same day which reduces any after-hours driving by employees
Allows for vehicles to be monitored more easily
5. Health Benefits are Provided
Lowers the probability of employees filing fraudulent claims
Increases overall employee wellness.
Some of these controls may be difficult or unrealistic to implement with your current business model. With workers’ compensation representing such a large line item on so many solar contractor’s profit and loss statements, engaging a forward-thinking insurance broker who can provide you additional resources and a clear renewal strategy is critical. At Rancho Mesa, we bring both of those tools to our relationships, utilizing our Risk Management Center to properly implement controls and our 20+ year history as leaders in the construction insurance marketplace.
To start a conversation about how we can assist your company, contact me at (619) 438-6874 or khoward@ranchomesa.com.