Awareness Month – 91 Tue, 15 Oct 2024 18:07:05 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6.5 /wp-content/uploads/2024/03/cropped-cropped-favicon-512x512-1-32x32.png Awareness Month – 91 32 32 Safety Nets and Strategies: The Importance of National Preparedness Month /blog/importance-of-national-preparedness-month/ Tue, 05 Sep 2023 19:24:36 +0000 /safety-nets-and-strategies-the-importance-of-national-preparedness-month/ Read more]]> In the face of an ever-changing landscape of risks and challenges, it’s imperative to remain resilient and be prepared to navigate the unexpected. observed every September—seeks to raise awareness about the importance of disaster preparedness and encourage individuals, families, and businesses to take concrete steps and enhance their readiness for various emergencies.

Some of the key takeaways from the annual recognition to help protect what matters most include:

PROTECTING YOUR ASSETS

Develop a Comprehensive Emergency Plan: Create a that outlines procedures for emergencies, such as fires, natural disasters and medical incidents. This plan should include evacuation routes, designated assembly points and clear communication channels.

Regular Training and Drills: Conduct and emergency drills to familiarize employees with evacuation procedures, first aid protocols and the use of safety equipment.

Establish Communication Protocols: Implement a that enables swift and effective communication during emergencies. Ensure employees know how to access emergency contact information and stay informed.

Medical and First Aid Readiness: Have well-stocked first aid kits readily available and ensure that designated employees are trained in . Consider organizing training in CPR and basic medical response.

Regular Plan Review and Updates: Periodically review and update your to account for changes in personnel, facilities and potential risks. Regularly communicate updates to employees.

LOOKING AHEAD

By blending preparedness with strategic insurance coverage, businesses can be equipped to endure challenges and ensure the safety of your workforce and the resilience of your operations.

91 offers a range of insurance solutions tailored to the specific needs of your company. By partnering with 91, you can create a comprehensive risk management strategy that includes both preventive measures and financial safeguards. Contact our risk management team for a range of tailored and inventive solutions designed to fortify your financial stability and uphold a secure and thriving work environment for your business.

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Built to Last: The Importance of Building Safety /blog/building-safety-month/ Wed, 17 May 2023 01:34:51 +0000 /built-to-last-the-importance-of-building-safety/ Read more]]> Building safety is a crucial aspect of every workplace and is vital in helping to reduce the risk of insurance claims, which can often have a significant impact on a company’s finances. In observance of , there are unique ways that businesses can highlight the importance of safety in the workplace, including how to take proactive steps to help protect their employees, customers, and property.

Safety in the Workplace

Proper building safety includes the prevention of accidents and injuries caused by fire, structural failures, falls, and other hazards. It’s essential in all workplaces, but especially important in buildings that are older, have outdated infrastructure, or may house hazardous materials.

Companies have an obligation to ensure a secure working environment and , including requirements for fire prevention, electrical safety, and fall protection. Employers should also provide training to workers on how to operate safely within buildings and worksites, including how to identify and avoid building hazards.

The Importance of Building Safety

To promote building safety in the workplace, companies can implement the following practices:

  • : Buildings should be inspected regularly to identify and repair any faults or hazards. Electrical systems, heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems, elevators, and fire protection systems should be checked regularly to ensure that they are in good working order.
  • : Employees should receive training on building safety, including how to recognize and avoid building hazards, and how to respond to building-related emergencies. Training should also cover proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and emergency response procedures.
  • Clear Guidelines: Clear guidelines and procedures for working within buildings should be established and communicated to all employees. This includes guidelines for working at heights, handling hazardous materials, and responding to building emergencies.
  • Updated Equipment: Equipment used within buildings, such as elevators, should be updated regularly to ensure they meet current safety standards.
  • : Employers should comply with OSHA standards for building safety. Failure to comply with these standards can result in costly penalties and fines, as well as employee injuries.

Promoting Building Safety in the Workplace

Building safety is essential for protecting workers, visitors, and company property. By implementing regular inspections, proper training, clear guidelines, updated equipment, and compliance with OSHA standards, businesses can create a safe working environment that promotes productivity and protects the bottom line. Contact 91’s Risk Management team for an array of customized and innovative solutions to help ensure your company is a safe and successful workplace.

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Identifying Harmful Exposures in the Workplace During Lung Cancer Awareness Month /blog/lung-cancer-awareness-month-2022/ Wed, 02 Nov 2022 03:58:31 +0000 /identifying-harmful-exposures-in-the-workplace-during-lung-cancer-awareness-month/ Read more]]> It may be surprising to learn that in both men and women worldwide. In fact, reports that it makes up at least 25% of all cancer deaths and, each year, more people die of lung cancer than of colon, breast, and prostate cancers combined.

is observed annually every November and is a time to emphasize better community awareness of this mostly preventable disease that remains a major cause of illness and death, both at home and at work.

Effects in the Workplace

While , other risk factors that can cause lung cancer include exposure to asbestos, diesel fuel, nickel, arsenic, soot, or tar. These exposures are common risks in some workplaces, especially for workers in industries such as .

High-risk industries can take precautionary measures to help protect employees from leading causes of lung cancer, such as:

  • Limit staff exposure to harmful carcinogens
  • Provide personal protective equipment (PPE) such as masks or respirators to those who may be at risk for exposure to airborne irritants
  • Offer that help identify symptoms at an early stage
  • Educate workers concerning the risks of lung disease
  • Hire a specially trained health and safety expert to investigate the work environment for risks for occupational lung diseases

Many potential causes of lung cancer can be found in the workplace, but they are easy to control with the proper measures, for all employees.

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Participate in Manufacturing Day 2022 and Inspire Future Workers /blog/manufacturing-day-2022/ Fri, 07 Oct 2022 22:27:35 +0000 /participate-in-manufacturing-day-2022-and-inspire-future-workers/ Read more]]> In the United States, and employs 12 million people.

Manufacturing Day is held on the first Friday of October each year with the purpose of highlighting the importance of this significant sector along with the opportunities and challenges within this field. In total, manufacturing  contributes 20% of the nation’s capital investment, 35% of productivity growth, and 60% of exports, .

The annual Manufacturing Day event is coordinated by The Manufacturing Institute and helps to inspire the next generation of workers, an especially important focus during today’s changing landscape — which has become more digital and more sustainable — and the cross-industry skilled labor shortage.

Participate in Manufacturing Day 2022

Businesses and educational institutions across the U.S. are encouraged to check out the virtual and in-person resources and events taking place as part of National Manufacturing Day and help inform the workforce of tomorrow about what it means to be a part of today’s manufacturing world.

Learn More About the Manufacturing Outlook

Visit these resources to learn more about trends in the manufacturing industry today, including the common risks and opportunities associated with the transformation of manufacturing and the top manufacturing trends to watch including changes to the workforce, supply chains, and more.

Protection Forged in Partnership

91 is expanding its focus on the manufacturing industry by investing in our products and people who provide the expertise you rely on to help protect your manufacturing business. Learn more about the unique coverage and technologies to complement your manufacturing programs, including our new Product Recall and Manufacturers Errors & Omissions products, expanded appetite to provide industry-leading service to more manufacturing businesses, and an increased investment in our expert employees with manufacturing knowledge.

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October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month – Assess Your Business Risks /blog/cybersecurity-awareness-october-2022/ Wed, 05 Oct 2022 05:27:09 +0000 /october-is-national-cybersecurity-awareness-month-assess-your-business-risks/ Read more]]> It’s a great time of year to ensure your company is protected from cyber risks. 91 recognizes National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, organized by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and held every October as a collaborative effort between the government and the technology industry. It aims to raise awareness about the importance of cybersecurity at home, in schools and in the workplace.

Now in its 19th year, the month-long campaign has chosen See Yourself in Cyber as its theme. It demonstrates that while cybersecurity may seem like a complex subject, ultimately, it’s about people. This October will focus on the “people” part of cybersecurity, providing information and resources to help educate the public and ensure all individuals and organizations make smart decisions now and in the future.

cybersecurity, october, cyber risks

CISA recommends four easy things people can do right away at work and at home to enhance their security practices:

  1. Enable multi-factor authentication
  2. Use strong passwords
  3. Recognize and report phishing
  4. Update your software

Visit these resources to learn more about cybersecurity and protect your business today:

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Stay Safe and Build a Plan During National Preparedness Month /blog/2022-national-preparedness-month/ Fri, 02 Sep 2022 01:25:00 +0000 /stay-safe-and-build-a-plan-during-national-preparedness-month/ Read more]]> Whether at home or at work, it’s always a safe bet to be as prepared as possible for potential disasters.

is recognized each September to raise awareness about the importance of being prepared for emergencies and disasters. For businesses, this observance provides a great time to consider specific risks that could impact employee safety and develop your own preparedness plan.

According to businesses can face a variety of potential hazards related to natural disasters, health concerns, technology-related risks and accidents caused by humans. There are simple steps to create and implement an emergency preparedness plan for your business:

Identify Your Risks

Become familiar with the types of natural disasters in your location. Each season brings its own unique challenges, and it is imperative to plan for the risks your business may face for each. This can include earthquakes, hurricanes, flooding, power outages from severe winds, and tornadoes.

Depending on the type of business, identify the likelihood of other kinds of disasters, such as health hazards in a healthcare setting, or information technology-related risks to equipment or processes.

Develop a Plan

Create a course of action for each type of risk and conduct safety drills for emergencies your employees may face. Your safety drill plans should include when to evacuate the premises and when to stay in place. In the event your employees are required to evacuate, include information in your plan on the routes that are available and how to access the company’s emergency kits.

Take Action

Determine how to communicate with your employees before, during and after a disaster. Assign safety officers for assisting others in the event of an emergency, and consider accommodations for employees with special medical needs, including prescriptions and equipment.

Businesses should also review their insurance plans as they relate to the typical risks in their locations. Having the right type and amount of insurance can make the difference between a quick or more complicated disaster recovery. Consult your agent who can assist in determining what perils your policy covers (and in what situations coverage takes effect) to decide if additional coverage may be needed.

Inspire Others

Take advantage of the resources at and use National Preparedness Month as the prompt to get a plan started for your company. Discuss your plans with others in your industry to help ensure those around you are also taking steps to protect their family or company.

While businesses may not be able to avoid a disaster, you can minimize the impacts by being prepared.

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Recognizing Workplace Exposures During Lung Cancer Awareness Month /blog/recognizing-workplace-exposures-during-lung-cancer-awareness-month/ Thu, 18 Nov 2021 04:44:14 +0000 /recognizing-workplace-exposures-during-lung-cancer-awareness-month/ Read more]]> Did you know lung cancer is the , both in the United States and worldwide? Several nonprofit organizations and research firms are taking steps to enhance the public’s understanding of this prevalent disease during November’s Lung Cancer Awareness Month.

According to the , lung cancer is responsible for more fatalities than colorectal cancer, breast cancer and pancreatic cancer combined. In fact, The American Cancer Society estimates nearly 132,000 men and women have died from lung cancer this year.

Lung Cancer Risks at Work
While smoking tobacco is the most common cause of lung cancer, work-related exposure to carcinogens is also a leading cause of lung cancer. The World Health Organization recently reported that one in ten lung cancer deaths is caused by risk factors at work. These factors can include such as asbestos, soot, tar, radon, welding fumes and arsenic.

Symptoms of lung cancer may not be apparent right away and can include a persisting cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, hoarseness, weight loss, bone pain and headaches, .

Businesses in high-risk industries can take steps to help prevent lung cancer risks for their workers:

  • Be aware of hazards on the job, such as the presence of asbestos or other toxins
  • Require proper usage of masks and/or respirators to prevent inhalation or ingestion
  • Consider , such as ventilation systems to remove air particles
  • Encourage a healthy and smoke-free workplace, as the combination of exposure to carcinogens and smoking can greatly

Learn More
As part of the annual recognition, the American Lung Association offers a and other tools and resources to learn and share information about lung cancer research and prevention.

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