Insurance Insights ~ October 1997

Forklift Training May Lower Your Workers Compensation Premium

That may seem like a drastic statement, but when you consider that operator error is one of the leading causes of injuries and fatalities in these types of workers compensation claims, it's easy to comprehend. Each year, 36,000 serious injuries and over 100 fatalities are caused by operating lift trucks under unstable conditions; driving too close to pedestrians, fixed objects, or other trucks; and traveling on uneven surfaces.

We need to train operators to work their forklifts, not simply how forklifts work. There is a difference. Operators need training on the characteristics of these vehicles, the controls, manufacturer's warnings, and other safety rules, and by focusing the operator training on anticipation and working around workplace hazards, all of which significantly reduces accidents. The majority of these accidents could be reduced by simply changing the operators behavior. Training aimed at changing behavior when working under hazardous conditions improves forklift safety. Forklift training usually offers only a short classroom session, an obstacle course driver's test, and a written exam. However, these courses focus only on complying with the letter of the law, instead of the intent of the law, which is to reduce injuries.

Focusing the training on maneuvering the truck and its load under various hazardous conditions would be a more effective approach. Common hazards should be identified and reviewed with operators. Accident records should be kept, and checked periodically to identify drivers who require further training.

A performance test should be set up and each new operator should be required to practice forklift operations. If an operator does not pass the performance test, he should not be permitted to operate the forklift in the workplace. Continue to train and work with this individual until he successfully passes the course.

New forklift operators should continue to be monitored and watched closely for a period of time. By investing in a safety program that specifically outlines training and ongoing driver performance, you will provide a safe working environment for not only your forklift operators, but their co-workers as well.

Our loss control department offers courses and safety tips on forklift safety. For further information on this subject you may call us at (215) 257-9171 or e-mail us at info@gcwinsure.com.

Crime Prevention

Not long ago, we were able to leave our homes unlocked, and not be concerned about becoming a crime victim. Today, even a locked door may not be enough to prevent thieves from entering your home. The following tips may help you from becoming a burglary victim:

• Timers are inexpensive and an effective way of making your home appear occupied. They can be used to turn lamps on and off during the day and night in different rooms of your home.
• Light-sensing timers are good for turning outdoor and flood lights on, making it difficult for thieves to hide.
• By using an answering machine or call forwarding, phones will not keep ringing and ringing indicating no one at home.
• Ask your neighbor to pick up your mail, newspapers, and deliveries when you'll be away. Your post office can also hold your mail until you return.
• If possible, have a friend or neighbor periodically check on your home, or even housesit. If you are traveling for an extended period of time, notify your local police of your absence.
• Dead bolt locks are recommended for outside doors. Pin locks are recommended for windows and sliding glass doors. Don't forget to secure basement windows. Don't attempt to hide keys under flowerpots, mats, or window sills, as this will be the first place a thief will check.
• Keep valuables out of sight and place them in a safe deposit box. Don't display expensive items in plain view through windows.
• Ask for identification when someone wants to enter your home for repairs, then confirm with the utility company.
• Participate in your Neighborhood Watch program if one exists, Be conscious as to what is going on in your neighborhood.

Finally, be sure that your home and personal property are properly and adequately insured. Inquire about replacement cost coverage for your personal property under your homeowner's or tenant's policy. At Weimer Associates, we can provide you with the coverage best suited to meet your needs. Give us a call or stop by one of our offices and we'll be happy to discuss it with you.

Long-Term Care Insurance

We all dream of retiring one day and enjoying "the golden years." But what if the future tells a different story?

Consider the scenario if you or your spouse become sick and require home health care or nursing home care. What will you do? Approximately 2 out of 5 Americans that are over the age of 65 will spend some time in a nursing home facility. Did you know the average cost per day can be $120 to $200? This number is increasing, especially with the baby boomers entering their senior years. Long Term Care insurance should also be considered as your parents enter the age of 50+. Most singles and couples are working and may be unable to care for an ailing parent.

The myth that Medicare will take care of you is a myth! Medicaid, Medicare's companion, pays a portion of your nursing home stay -- after you "spend down" your assets.

Everyone wants control of his or her life! Most of us will live longer and healthier lives, but the facts of life say that we may suffer health problems or serious infirmity that may require us to have skilled nursing care. Ask yourself -- are you prepared to take the risk? Long-term care has become the single biggest retirement expense, and the one least planned for. The following are some tips in helping you select the right policy for you:

• Guaranteed Renewability -- as long as premiums are paid, the policy cannot be canceled. The premium can be increased only for the entire group, not individually.
• Coverage for Alzheimer's Disease.
• Nuring Home and Home Health Care -- the policy should include both options depending upon your personal physician's recommendation on your level of care.
• Waiver of Premium -- the premium is waived after a specified number of days of continuous care.
• Optional Coverage Benefits -- Return of Premium Rider, Lifetime Inflation Rider, and Survivorship Benefit Rider.

We highly recommend that you look into this important addition to your insurance portfolio. When deciding to buy Long-term Care insurance, check a company's financial rating, coverage limitations, and exclusions before purchasing any policy. For more information on this coverage, please e-mail us at info@gcwinsure.com. Be prepared for the future so that you and your family can enjoy "the golden years."

INSURANCE INSIGHTS is an electronic newsletter published monthly by G. C. Weimer Associates, Inc. Information contained herein is accurate to the best of our knowledge and belief as of 10/1/97. If you have a topic of interest for a future issue, e-mail us at info@gcwinsure.com.