Builder_(1)-min

Construction Insurance 101

There are many types of construction insurances intended to protect a property developer and other stakeholders throughout the stages of a construction project. Here are the basics of construction insurance – from the common types of construction insurance policies to the different types of coverage.

What is construction insurance?

Contractors insurance, which is basically insurance for a construction project, is a wide classification of coverage that relates to the erection of buildings, roads, bridges or any other types of structures.

Here is a list of some of the common types of contractors insurance.

Builder’s risk insurance

Also known of course as construction insurance, builder’s risk insurance (all risk insurance) is a coverage for buildings and other structures during construction. This policy should be prioritized even where policies such as commercial property insurance and homeowner’s insurance have been purchased, since the policies do not cover structures under construction. Builder’s risk insurance covers residential new construction and remodeling projects, commercial property construction, building materials, foundations, scaffolding, fencing, paving, outdoor fixtures, and lawns fitted by the contractor. In most cases, all risk insurance covers damages caused by fire, vandalism, and weather, although some construction insurance companies can offer special coverage for unique projects.

Construction bonds

Construction (contract) bonds are intended to guarantee that a project will be completed if accepted, and if failed an entity will be made to pay for the damage. There are several types of construction bonds, including:

  • Bid bonds – which guarantee that bid proposals are serious and that the bidder is capable of undertaking the project.
  • Payment bonds – which assure that the builder can provide payments to suppliers, subcontractors, and site workers.
  • Supply bonds – which guarantee that suppliers will deliver building materials and other supplies as per the contract.
  • Performance bonds – which compel the contractor to follow the quality guidelines set out in the project’s contract.
  • Maintenance (warranty) bonds – which protect the project owner from poor workmanship for a period of time after the work is done.

Contractor license bonds

This is an agreement – similar to construction insurance policies – which assures that a contractor will obey the rules that pertain to their contractor license. It is designed to protect members of the public and the people who will work or do business with the contractor. Contractor license bonds are offered by insurance companies and the cost usually varies depending on the contractor’s historical track-record of income and credit score. The better the track-record the cheaper the bond.

Workman’s compensation

This type of construction insurance is designed to protect businesses and contractors from any liability in the event their worker is injured while on duty. It covers medical expenses as a result of a covered incident, ongoing recovery expenses related to an injury, missed wages, legal fees if the policy holder is taken to court, as well as funeral costs and death benefits.

General liability insurance

Also known as commercial general liability insurance, this type of insurance for construction offers a liability protection to businesses in the event of property damage or bodily harm in the course of business. General liability insurance policies for construction companies usually cover damages relating to defective workmanship, work-related injuries, and defamation. Like in other types of construction insurances, general liability insurance outlines certain exclusions to protect insurers from having to cover certain risks.

Construction equipment insurance

Also known as tool and equipment insurance, this type of insurance is designed to cover the tools and equipment used by construction professionals, including:

  • Computers and data – desktops, laptops, tablets, and project data.
  • Owner’s equipment – forklifts, cranes, loaders, excavators, etc.
  • Contractor’s tools and equipment – generators, drills, hammers, saws, etc.
  • Leased equipment – leased equipment and tools.

This policy typically covers items at either replacement cost or at the fair market value of the stolen or damaged items. Coverage of this nature includes equipment stolen from a construction site as well as those damaged in a fire or natural disaster at a jobsite.

Professional liability insurance

Also known as errors and omissions (E&O) insurance, this type of coverage offers protection for a business against claims resulting from errors and mistakes that occur during normal business operations. A good example of E&O coverage is the case of an engineer who miscalculates the structural requirements of a house – causing the owner to make expensive repairs. The homeowner may sue the engineer for damages caused by his mistakes. In this case, the E&O policy in the engineer’s insurance policy might cover the claim. However, unlike other policies that cover property damage or body injuries suffered in the line of duty, E&O policies only cover financial losses.

The cost of construction insurance varies depending on the type of policy as well as factors such as policyholder’s credit history, experience, size of business, etc. Call our agency to speak with one of our agents and get a contractors insurance quote.

 

Source: https://www.constructionkenya.com/10113/construction-insurance/

June 29, 2023 Insurance, Safety, Tips Comments Off on Construction Insurance 101
Extinguisher_Classes

How to operate and use a Fire Extinguisher

We should all have at least one fire extinguisher somewhere in our home, but it’s not enough to simply keep one under the kitchen sink. If there is a fire, your safety—and the safety of your home—depends on knowing how to properly use that fire extinguisher. As your insurance agent, we strongly urge you to read and follow the following safety prevention tips to keep you, friends, and family safe. There’s no excuse not to!

In case your fire extinguisher has been sitting around collecting dust, here’s everything you need to know before brushing it off and fighting a fire in your home the right way.

Choose the right fire extinguisher.

The first thing you need to know is the different classifications of fires, and the second thing you need to understand is what types of fires you may have to deal with and make sure your extinguisher can get the job done. Most household fires fall into one of the following categories:

Class A: These fires are fueled by solid combustibles like wood, paper, and cloth.

Class B: These fires are fueled by flammable liquids such as oil, petroleum, and gasoline.

Class C: These fires are started or fueled by faulty wiring, fuse boxes, and appliances.

Class K: These fires are started or fueled by cooking oils and greases, animal fats, and vegetable fats.

Please watch this video on how to correctly operate and use a fire extinguisher from CQ Fire & Safety.

All fire extinguishers are labeled to indicate which classes of fire they are designed to combat. Most household fire extinguishers are considered multipurpose and labeled for use in A, B, and C classes. Fire extinguishers safe for Class K fires are heavier duty and will need to be bought separately. Fire extinguisher labels also include symbols to indicate which types of fires the extinguisher is designed to fight. If there is a circle and a red slash through any of the symbols, that indicates that the extinguisher cannot be used to fight that type of fire.

Steps for proper fire extinguisher use

Once you understand the different types of fire extinguishers and their uses, you need to be able to properly operate one.

The best way to be ready for a fire emergency in your home is to study the steps below and review them regularly so you can protect your home and family.

 

 

  1. Identify a clear exit/escape route

Before operating the fire extinguisher, make sure you have a clear evacuation route. If you cannot put out the fire, you’ll need to make a safe exit. Consider this when determining where to store your fire extinguisher, and make sure you’ll have multiple exit options nearby after you retrieve it.

  1. Stand back

Face the fire and keep your back to the clear exit you earlier identified. You should stay between six and eight feet away from the flames as you prepare to operate the fire extinguisher.

  1. Discharge extinguisher

It can be difficult to think clearly during an emergency, so fire safety has a long-standing acronym to help you recall the steps involved in operating your fire extinguisher. Just remember PASS:

     P: Pull the pin on the fire extinguisher.

     A: Aim the nozzle on the hose low, toward the base of the fire.

     S: Squeeze the handle or lever to discharge the extinguisher.

     S: Sweep the nozzle back and forth. Keep the fire extinguisher   aimed at the base of the fire and move it from side to side until the flames are extinguished.

  1. Keep an eye on things

After the flames appear to be out, continue to watch the fire area to make sure it doesn’t reignite. If the fire does start up again, repeat the PASS process.

  1. Call the fire department

If you didn’t have the chance to call the fire department before discharging the fire extinguisher, do so now. They will be able to inspect the site of the fire and make sure that it is completely extinguished.

  1. Get to a safe place

Once the fire is out, or if you are unable to extinguish the fire, leave the scene and find a place out of reach of the fire.

Many people put out small fires quite safely. However, death or serious injury can occur by tackling a fire which is beyond your capabilities. Only tackle a fire in its very early stages and always ensure you put your own and other people’s safety first. If you cannot put out the fire or if the extinguisher becomes empty, evacuate yourself and everyone in the home immediately, closing all doors behind you as you go. If there is the slightest doubt or uncertainty about tackling the fire, evacuate the building immediately and call your local fire department.

The best way to keep your home and family safe in the event of a fire is to be prepared. Get to know your fire extinguishers and regularly review how to properly use them. A little advance practice can make all the difference when you’re faced with the stress of an actual fire in your home. Contact us by phone or visit us online to discuss your current home insurance needs. We are happy to provide coverage from many insurance carriers so you receive the insurance for your budget and needs.

Source: https://www.safewise.com/blog/prepared-properly-use-fire-extinguisher/ and https://www.marsden-fire-safety.co.uk/resources/fire-extinguishers/using-a-fire-extinguisher

 

March 6, 2023 Safety, Tips Comments Off on How to operate and use a Fire Extinguisher
RV Blog

RV Insurance, Weather and Driving Conditions

RVing is becoming one of the most popular ways to travel. A successful and safe RV trip takes preparation and planning to make it a good experience. Whether you are new to RVing or not, these tips can help ensure that your trip will be a smooth experience.  As your insurance agent, we urge you to follow and  read through these tips for insurance coverage, adapting to weather conditions, and driving your RV.

 

Learn How to Drive the RV You Plan to Use

If you are vacationing in an RV for the first time, practice driving first. If you don’t own your RV, then rent an RV for a day before your trip and take it driving! Keeping the RV between the lines, accelerating, braking, using only mirrors to see what’s behind you, and passing vehicles top the list of maneuvers that you will need to know while on the open road. RV’s handle very differently from a car, SUV, or pickup. Practice backing your RV up so that you can back into a campsite. If you have a passenger, it is a good idea to have a spotter to help guide you.  Many accidents and claims happen due to hitting tree limbs, picnic tables or other items that were in the driver’s blind spot.

RV Insurance and Road Service

Knowing your insurance coverages is important. Be sure to research road services that specialize in RVs. Only a few road service companies will tow the trailer, too.

  • What does your RV insurance cover?
  • Does your motorhome policy cover your towed vehicle?
  • Do you need separate RV insurance for road service coverage?

Check Road Conditions, Construction, and Closures

Save time and frustration by checking road conditions, closures, and construction. The U.S. DOT Federal Highway Administration website shows a map of the states. Click on the state you will be traveling in and choose a link that shows current road conditions on the following link National Traffic and Road Closure Information | Federal Highway Administration (dot.gov).

 

You will also need to be mindful of overpasses, bridge and tunnel height restrictions.

 

Weather

Knowing the weather forecast can help avoid problems. Rain, snow, ice, hail, wind– you might encounter all of these in one day! Below are just a few weather sites that give weather for all states.

 

Motorhomes are your second home (on wheels!) and you need to have proper insurance coverage. The last thing you want to worry about is being financially liable for causing an accident and not having proper RV insurance. Most states only require minimal liability insurance that protects others if you’re at fault.

 

Peterson McGregor Insurance is an independent insurance agent located in Michigan. We can provide coverage from many insurance carriers so you receive the RV insurance for your budget and needs! You can reach us at 866-547-4474 or online at https://petersonmcgregor.com/services.

Source: https://www.tripsavvy.com/safetip-tips-for-planning-rv-trip-500779 and https://www.coverage.com/insurance/auto/rv-insurance/

February 28, 2023 Insurance, Safety, Tips Comments Off on RV Insurance, Weather and Driving Conditions
Lawsuit Blog

What is Employment Practices Liability Insurance?

Employment Practices Liability Insurance (EPLI) covers businesses against claims by workers that their legal rights as employees of the company have been violated. The number of lawsuits filed by employees against their employers has been rising. While most suits are filed against large corporations, no company is immune to such lawsuits.

EPLI provides protection against many kinds of employee lawsuits, including claims of:

  • Sexual harassment
  • Discrimination
  • Wrongful termination
  • Breach of employment contract
  • Negligent evaluation
  • Failure to employ or promote
  • Wrongful discipline
  • Deprivation of career opportunity
  • Wrongful infliction of emotional distress
  • Mismanagement of employee benefit plans

The cost of EPLI coverage depends on your type of business, the number of employees you have and various risk factors such as whether your company has been sued over employment practices in the past. The policies will reimburse your company against the costs of defending a lawsuit in court and for judgments and settlements. The policy covers legal costs, whether your company wins or loses the suit. Policies also typically do not pay for punitive damages or civil or criminal fines. Liabilities covered by other insurance policies such as workers compensation are excluded from EPLI policies.

To prevent employee lawsuits, educate your managers and employees so that you minimize problems in the first place:

  • Create effective hiring and screening programs to avoid discrimination in hiring.
  • Post corporate policies throughout the workplace and place them in employee handbooks so policies are clear to everyone.
  • Show employees what steps to take if they are the object of sexual harassment or discrimination by a supervisor. Make sure supervisors know where the company stands on what behaviors are not permissible.
  • Document everything that occurs and the steps your company is taking to prevent and solve employee disputes.

At Peterson McGregor, we can provide coverage from many insurance carriers so you receive the EPLI for your budget. Call us at 866-547-4474 or visit us online at https://petersonmcgregor.com/services to discuss and/or review your needs.

Source: https://www.iii.org/article/what-employment-practices-liability-insurance-epli

January 8, 2023 Insurance, People, Safety Comments Off on What is Employment Practices Liability Insurance?
Peterson_McGregor_December_Blog_Photo

Safe driving in winter weather

Millions of Americans will be traveling this holiday season, and if it’s anything like previous years, a lot of that travel will be on the road. Last year, AAA estimated that more than 100 million Americans were planning a trip of more than 50 miles during the holidays-and that was just between Dec. 23 and Jan. 1.

Of course, winter weather creates a unique set of challenges on local roadways, too. So even if you’re not headed out of town, these safety tips can help you make it through the season safely.

Make sure your car is ready
Before winter arrives, and before any long trip, give your car a thorough check-up. Do wipers need to be replaced? Are your fluid levels where they should be? How’s the radiator and cooling system?

If you live in an area (or visit one often) where temperatures regularly drop below 45 degrees, it’s a good idea to get a set of winter tires-they’re better suited for the cold than all-season tires, because they’re designed to provide the best traction and handling in ice and snow. Whatever you’re driving on, however, make sure your tires are inflated properly and that they have enough tread.

Your car should have an emergency kit, too. Pack it with jumper cables, blankets, a first-aid kit, flares, food and water, a flashlight and other safety gear. A shovel and cat litter or sand are nice to have as well; they can provide traction should you get stuck.

Before you leave
If you’re going on a trip, make sure you check weather conditions along your route and take printed maps-you might not always have cell reception. Let someone know your itinerary, so if you don’t arrive on time, officials know where to look for you.

Every time you drive somewhere, even if it’s just a quick trip to the store, clear snow and ice off your car; it can be a hazard to other drivers. And don’t forget to clear your headlights and other lights.

When you’re on the road
Are roads snowy or icy? Take it slow. Take it slow. Take it slow. Give yourself extra time to get to your destination, and make sure you leave extra room between your vehicle and others. Watch for ice patches on bridges, overpasses and shady spots. And remember, having four-wheel or all-wheel drive does not mean your car will stop (or steer) better on ice.

If you’re caught in a storm that seems like it’s too much for you to handle, seek refuge as soon as you can. Sometimes it’s best not to drive in snow and ice at all-if it looks bad out there, stay home if possible.

If your vehicle becomes disabled or you get in an accident
Car trouble and accidents affect thousands of people every winter. If your vehicle is disabled, be sure to stay with it. Run your engine and heater for short intervals, and open one of your windows slightly to prevent carbon monoxide build-up. Light two flares (remember that vehicle emergency kit? Now’s the time to use it) and place one a safe distance from both the front and rear of your vehicle. Note your location with mileposts, exit numbers or cross streets and call the authorities or a tow truck.

If you’re in a crash, be careful-the aftermath of a car accident can be a dangerous, especially in winter when visibility might be reduced and conditions might be slick. Check everyone involved for injuries and call 911 if necessary. After minor accidents, have everyone pull well off the road. Put out flares and turn on your hazard lights.

When you can’t move your car, stay inside unless traffic is completely clear. It’s far better for another vehicle to hit your car, even with you in it, then to hit you directly.

Wherever you may be headed this winter, we hope you enjoy the season with friends and family. Here’s to healthy and happy holidays!

Source: https://www.safeco.com/blog/safe-winter-driving

 

December 9, 2022 Safety, Tips Comments Off on Safe driving in winter weather
create_a_fire_escape_plan_with_your_family_blog

Home Fire Escape Plans

Fire can spread rapidly through your home, leaving you as little as one or two minutes to escape safely once the smoke alarm sounds. Your ability to get out of your home during a fire depends on advance warning from smoke alarms and advance planning.

Why do you need a home escape plan?

  • Working smoke alarms and a home fire escape plan can reduce your risk of injury or death in a fire.
  • Most fatal fires happen in homes.
  • When fire strikes you may have less than one minute to get out of the building.
  • Fires double in size every minute.
  • Fires create thick, black, choking smoke which makes it impossible to see or breathe.
  • Fires produce heat, smoke and toxic gases.

In the event of fire, time is the biggest enemy, and every second counts. In less than 30 seconds, a small flame can turn into a major fire. Having an escape plan will help you and your family to get out of your home quickly. Practice E.D.I.T.H. — Exit Drills in the Home — with your family.

A closed door may slow the spread of smoke, heat and fire. Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home. Walk through your home and inspect all possible exits and escape routes. Pull together everyone in your household and make a plan. Below are guidelines on how to write your home fire escape plan. As your insurance agent, we strongly encourage you to follow these steps and create a plan for your own home.

  • Households with children should consider drawing a floor plan of your home. Show all doors and windows.
  • Visit each room, find two ways out, including windows and doors, and mark them.
  • All windows and doors should open easily. You should be able to use them to get outside.
  • Push the test button on each smoke alarm to make sure each alarm is working. Replace the batteries where needed.
  • Pick a meeting place outside. It should be in front of your home. Everyone will meet at the

meeting place.

  • Make sure your house or building number can be seen from the street.
  • Talk about your plan with everyone in your home.
  • Learn the emergency phone number for your fire department.
  • Practice your home fire drill!

Watch these steps to making a home fire escape plan from the National Fire Protection Agency.

According to an NFPA survey, only one of every three American households have actually developed and practiced a home fire escape plan. While 71% of Americans have an escape plan in case of a fire, only 45% of those have practiced it. One-third of American households who made an estimate thought they would have at least 6 minutes before a fire in their home would become life-threatening. The time available is often less. And only 8% said their first thought on hearing a smoke alarm would be to get out!

Taking time to review these safety precautions and write your home fire escape plan might just save a life!  At Peterson McGregor Insurance, we look forward to helping keep you and your family safe by providing the insurance coverage for all your home needs. You can reach us at 866-547-4474, online at https://petersonmcgregor.com/services, or any of our social media channels.

Source:

https://fire.arlingtonva.us/safety/escape-plans/

https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Staying-safe/Preparedness/Escape-planning

https://www.gohealthuc.com/library/does-your-family-have-fire-escape-plan

https://www.mass.gov/service-details/create-and-practice-a-home-escape-plan

November 24, 2022 Insurance, Safety Comments Off on Home Fire Escape Plans
CookingwithFireBlog

Restaurant Kitchen Safety

Owning a restaurant can be very rewarding, but it is hard work. Safety is very important not only for your customers, but for your staff as well. The main cause of injury and illness in the hospitality industry is an unsafe work environment. Working in any commercial kitchen is a dangerous job. If you own a restaurant, don’t forget these safety features in your kitchen.

  1. Proper Attire: Kitchen staff uniforms are often mandatory. They designate rank and keep the chef clean and comfortable during service. However, footwear is often times overlooked. You should encourage all employees to wear heavy duty, close-toed shoes that are waterproof and slip resistant.
  2. Non-Slip Mats: In addition to slip resistant shoes, you should have non-slip mats and flooring. During service a kitchen floor can become greasy and wet. Fast moving workers can potentially slip and fall. Non-slip mats and flooring can provide the necessary traction for workers to continue their fast pace without worrying about slipping.
  3. Ventilation: Without proper ventilation, a kitchen becomes hot, smoky, and unbearable. Employees who are required to spend a long period of time in unventilated kitchens are at higher risk of heat related illnesses. Proper ventilation systems are essential for the safety and comfort for your employees.
  4. Fire Safety Equipment: Commercial kitchens are in constant danger of fires. Having a fire suppression system is essential for keeping your kitchen safe. Training your employees how to use your fire suppression system is just as important as having the system! You should also have an evacuation plan in place and practice regular fire drills.
  5. Equipment Guards: Having commercial grade equipment is essential for your kitchen to run quickly and efficiently. Employees may state that safety guards on the equipment get in the way and slow down production, but they are there for a reason! Safety guards are an effective way to prevent amputations and lacerations from poor equipment handling.
  6. Signage: Slips and falls are often times caused by undisclosed hazards such as a recently cleaned spill. It pays to have adequate signage in the kitchen to draw attention to potential hazards. Signs should be placed in visible areas and in high-contrast colors.
  7. Occupational Health and Safety Training: While this is important for workers across all industries, there are some hospitality-specific hazards you need to address with your staff. A safety seminar will address issues such as: proper food storage and handling, how to avoid repetitive stress, how to remove or avoid potential hazards in the kitchen, and more.
  8. Correct Cleaning Techniques: All kitchen staff members should be trained in proper cleaning and food handling techniques. Poor kitchen hygiene is not only dangerous to your customers, but also to the kitchen staff handling the food. Food-borne illnesses is one of the top reasons cited for missed work days.

Whether you own the restaurant, work there, or you’re a paying customer, you want to remain safe and healthy. Flames and fuel in close proximity, hazardous cleaning chemicals, and sharp food prep equipment make a commercial kitchen, by far, the most hazardous environment to work in. Kitchen safety should be a priority to protect your employees and your customers. Having proper restaurant insurance from Peterson McGregor Insurance is another step to making your restaurant safer. Give us a call at 866-547-4474 or visit us online at https://petersonmcgregor.com/ for your free restaurant insurance quote.

Source: https://pos.toasttab.com/blog/on-the-line/restaurant-kitchen-safety-tips

November 1, 2022 Safety, Tips Comments Off on Restaurant Kitchen Safety
_Lawn_&_Garden_Blog_1

Yard Work Safety Tips to Keep You Out of the ER

Amid all the green lawns and manicured gardens of summer lies a grim statistic: Every year, while mowing the grass, cutting a branch, or power washing a deck, at least 100 people die and an estimated 143,000 are injured badly enough to require a trip to the emergency room.

The injuries people suffer run the gamut from overexertion and dehydration to cuts and amputations from using all kinds of power equipment. It’s also worth noting that in our research, we also came across a disturbing number of injuries associated with a common piece of equipment that doesn’t have a motor at all: ladders. Falls from ladders cause more injuries than all the power equipment in our research combined, resulting in broken backs, ankles, legs, and hips.

But using power equipment can cause far worse accidents. When working in the yard turns deadly, it can be due to carbon monoxide poisoning from a gas-powered engine running in an enclosed space, for example, or people getting trapped under large equipment, like a riding lawn mower.

And it’s not just the person doing the yard work who’s at risk. Bystanders also get hurt, such as children who have been killed or injured when playing near a mower or other outdoor power gear. As your insurance agent, we strongly urge you to read and follow the following safety prevention tips to keep you, friends, and family safe this summer.

Prevention Tips

∙ Keep children away from power equipment and do not let them in the yard while you are working.

∙ Wear safety goggles, closed-toe shoes, and long pants when using lawn mowers and other machinery.

∙ Protect your hearing when using machinery.

∙ Wear gloves to lower the risk for skin irritants, cuts, and certain contaminants.

∙ Use insect repellent containing DEET to protect yourself from mosquitoes and ticks.

∙ Wear long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats, sun shades, and sunscreen to protect your skin.

∙ Follow all instructions and warnings associated with lawn equipment.

Power Equipment safety is a priority for every homeowner. You may not want to spend the extra few minutes checking the function of the equipment and inspecting the lawn. However, doing so can help prevent risks, including those related to injury to you or your family. More so, power equipment can also do damage to your home when operated improperly.

We proudly insure the residents of Michigan, and are your local independent insurance agent. We can provide coverage from many insurance carriers so you receive the insurance for your budget and needs! You can reach us at 866-547-4474 or online at https://petersonmcgregor.com/.

Sources: https://www.consumerreports.org/outdoor-safety/yard-work-safety-tips/ and https://www.lifespan.org/sites/default/files/lifespan-files/documents/centers/4-safety-program/Lawn-and-Garden-Safety-Navy-and-Marine-Corps-Public-Health-Center.pdf

August 15, 2022 Insurance, Safety, Tips Comments Off on Yard Work Safety Tips to Keep You Out of the ER
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