As an insurance agent, it’s your job to provide clients with solid health planning and risk management. The mental picture for most, however, is a person rattling off options and benefits from a computer screen. Your expertise runs much deeper than that.

In fact, the most proactive agents recognize themselves as “forecasters,” letting people know the potential for rain and the need to pack an umbrella (metaphorically speaking). Let’s be clear – you’re not a meteorologist. Still, you’re the right-hand advisor who can predict company miscalculations before they erupt… even the most obscure occurrences.

Most employers don’t think of a cubicle as hazardous, for example, but non-physical occupations can spell d-a-n-g-e-r overnight. Here are the risks concerning employees’ health in the office and the areas of focus that can save time and money.

Do you, the insurance agent, have analysis and solutions at the ready?

Eyestrain

Employees spend a lot of time staring at computer screens while sitting under bright industrial lights. This irritation wreaks havoc on productivity as well as a company’s delicate bottom line. Installing dimmer lights, reducing the excessive glare of windows, and recommending work breaks could massively alter the pace of operations… for the better.

Indoor Air Quality

According to the National Safety Council, occupational asthma and associated respiratory disorders, allergies, and chemical sensitivities are on the rise. Office overcrowding, cubicles that block airflow, and irritants trapped in carpets can bring on allergies and sometimes cause serious, long-term illness. To avoid workers’ compensation claims and a cyclical pattern of sick days, monitoring your building’s cleaning and maintenance plans, reconsidering office configuration, and employee wellness programs are recommended.

Muscle Strain

Lower back pressure and musculoskeletal disorders are common amongst people that sit sedentary for hours at a time. Experts believe these risk factors are a precursor to injury. Awkward posture and circulation problems can be lessened with proper ergonomics, including the positioning of workstations as well as the type of chair employees are sitting on. Onsite fitness programs could help remedy a stagnant work culture too and reinstate vitality for all.

Workplace Violence

It’s been reported that nearly 2 million American workers have been victimized in the workplace. Increased incidences are often due to an individual’s instability, the prevalence of working alone or in isolation, alcohol consumption, and other factors. OSHA suggests the implementation of a workplace violence prevention program, trainings, and administrative controls to counteract a tragic turn of events.

Slip and Falls

According to the National Floor Safety Institute, slips and falls are the leading cause of workers’ compensation claims and are the leading cause of occupational injury for people aged 55 years and older. While falls do not constitute a primary cause of fatal occupational injuries, they do contribute to lost days and absenteeism. And surprisingly, most tumbles happen on the ground level (a.k.a. the office premises).

Office facilities need to address poor lighting, loose rugs or mats, and other obstructions. Outdoors, the threat of snow, ice, and uneven walkways can elicit unwanted spills. Workplace safety planning and proper workers’ compensation coverage is vital from both a legal and regulatory standpoint. That’s where your mediation skills can really save the day.

Normandy Insurance understands an effective workers’ compensation program must include a strong, proactive focus on safety and loss prevention and an ongoing interest in making the workplace safe and accident-free. If we can help you in any way, please get in touch: www.normandyins.com

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