Important Loss Control Considerations for Manufacturers

Important Loss Control Considerations for Manufacturers

By EMC Insurance & CUI Agency

Seemingly small incidents can add up to create a significant impact for manufacturers—nearly $1.2 billion is paid out each week in the United States for workers’ compensation claims. And for an industry filled with heavy machinery, automated equipment and hazardous chemicals, the top loss drivers aren’t as obvious as you think.

The more “mundane” factors play a larger role in overall productivity and profitability in manufacturing. To help manufactures plan for success and reduce risks, EMC Insurance Companies has determined the top five loss drivers for the industry.

1. Slips, trips and falls—especially from spills, weather and ladders

2. Ergonomic issues and overexertion

3. Struck-by-object accidents from forklifts, cranes and other large equipment

4. Auto accidents involving employee drivers

5. Fire accidents from improper storage or combustible materials, faulty electrical equipment or flammable liquids

How You Can Manage Your Risk

First, find an insurer with a solid background in manufacturing with specialized knowledge and expertise. Due to the industry’s specific needs, you’ll want to ensure you’re working with someone who is already comfortable and experienced in writing this business and providing loss control expertise. EMC and CUI Agency is a team you can trust to protect your manufacturing operation. Here are a few specialized safety resources they provide:

• Work Injury Hotline: EMC OnCall Nurse is of particular importance. Access to a 24/7 work injury hotline allows workers and their supervisors to immediately speak with a registered nurse and receive guidance on the appropriate level of medical care. For policyholders, using an OnCall Nurse service can streamline paperwork processes and ensure timely injury reporting. Additionally, EMC has seen business owners save more than $1,300 per claim with EMC OnCall Nurse compared to claims without.

• Driver Safety: Collisions are extremely dangerous; and largely preventable. To help keep drivers safe, implement a training program that covers topics such as braking, cell phone use, driver fatigue, safety belt use, vehicle maintenance and more. EMC also offers additional loss control resources like fleet safety programs and driver monitoring services.

• Wearable Technology: Wearable technology is rapidly evolving our understanding of employee ergonomics. Rather than working with an ergonomist, you can leverage wearable measurement devices and artificial intelligence to monitor and gather data around the clock. If a task is being performed in an unsafe manner, the device can note that instance and generate an alert to the worker or supervisor. This information can be leveraged to prevent injuries and further establish best practices.

Plus, EMC offers ergonomic evaluations, injury management programs, slip and fall prevention, hazard control assessments, online safety training, and an array of educational resources such as fact sheets, checklists, forms, safety posters, sample policies, newsletters and more.

What About Workers’ Compensation?

Not all workers’ compensation services are created equal, especially considering the additional risk of serious injury in manufacturing. Look for a variety of medical management services that help employees receive the care they need to recover safely and return to work quickly. Workers’ comp services can include medical bill review, case management, return to work programs, prework screening, wellness programs and more.

Visit emcins.com/manufacturing-insurance to learn more.