News

Snow days were a highlight of winter when many of us were children, but now winter weather presents a host of difficulties for employers. There are safety concerns, OSHA regulations to comply with, potential liability risks, attendance confusion and pay-related issues to address. It’s important to be prepared for all scenarios associated with inclement weather…

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has released an online mapping application, the National Risk Index (NRI), that identifies communities most at risk for 18 types of natural disasters, including earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, volcanoes and tsunamis. Based on the calculations of 80 experts over six years, the NRI provides a holistic view of community-level…

Insurance carriers play an active role in risk management, often assigning risk managers to inspect organizations’ facilities and work areas. If any issues are found during these inspections, the insurance carrier may provide recommendations that the organization must follow in order to maintain coverage and avoid higher insurance premiums. If your organization has an upcoming…

The prospect of a COVID-19 vaccine is exciting, but it also presents challenges for employers like you. Specifically, you may be considering whether vaccinations should be encouraged or mandated for your staff. The answer to this question depends on the unique aspects of your organization and its operations. And although there’s currently no federal law…

As temperatures begin to drop, walkways can quickly become hazardous due to snow and ice. Winter slips and falls at businesses are common sources of injuries for visitors and employees alike. As an employer, it’s crucial to maintain the safety of your property and keep your employees and visitors safe. Whether you take care of…

How the Internet of Things Can Benefit Your Workplace As workplace technology continues to advance across industry lines, the construction sector is no exception. Specifically, the Internet of Things (IoT) has quickly developed a reputation as one of the most promising technological advancements in the construction industry over the past decade. In fact, according to…

While any workers’ compensation claims can result in costly ramifications for your organization, one category of claim in particular—known as a “mega claim”—has the potential to carry significant consequences. True to its name, a mega claim is characterized as an exceptionally large claim—typically totaling $3 million or more in incurred losses. In the realm of…

Owning and operating a construction company in today’s world is remarkably challenging,” said Jeff Chronister, Accredited Advisor of Insurance (AAI) with Ollis/Akers/Arney. He cites aggressive competition, rapidly changing economic conditions, limited labor force and the evolving expectations of employees over the past few decades. “Owners have to wear multiple hats. Sometimes they have to be…

“Frankly, I think education is the biggest thing we do,” says Jeff Eiserman, Certified Insurance Counselor working in Property and Casualty with Ollis/Akers/Arney Insurance and Business Advisors. “People come to us because insurance is really complicated, and they need good expert advice.” One of the biggest costs for some employers is workers’ compensation. “On an…

For three of the last four years an Ollis/ Akers/Arney Insurance & Business Advisors commercial risk account manager has won the National Alliance for Insurance Education & Research Outstanding Customer Service Award. Robin Talty (2017), Beth Kensinger (2019), and Ashlae Cook (2020) were each recognized for demonstrating outstanding service and professionalism within the insurance community…