15 Tips for Driving on Snow and Ice

| November 21, 2023
Snow plow and car on snowy road

As the weather gets colder, driving conditions become difficult.

Follow these tips to stay safe while you’re driving on ice and snow this winter season.

Driving in snow and ice requires quick reflexes, patience and a little bit of know-how.

If you can’t avoid driving in wintry conditions, make sure you and your vehicle are both ready for the challenge. Also, try to time your trip so that you follow snowplows and ice/sand trucks rather than leading the way.

Do you have the right tires?

Worn tires are particularly dangerous on slippery roads. You may want to consider winter tires if you live in an area where driving in ice and snow is a regular occurrence rather than simply a once-in-a-while event.

According to Edmunds, winter tires are specially designed to stay pliable and grippy at lower temperatures but need to be replaced far sooner than standard tires: They “have lost almost all of their capability” when they are down to a tread depth of 6/32-inch.

Safety tips

Here are 15 winter driving tips to keep in mind:

  • Take a few minutes to fully clear your car of ice and snow before starting off. Not only will you have better visibility, but it’s also the law in some places. Motorists have been seriously hurt and even killed in accidents caused by chunks of ice and snow flying off other vehicles at high speeds.
  • Drive slowly and leave yourself enough room to safely stop. Increase your following distance to six to eight seconds. Also, don’t try to beat out yellow lights.
  • Use low gears to maintain traction, especially on hills.
  • Don’t use overdrive or cruise control on icy roads.
  • Don’t pass snowplows or sand trucks. Take extra care when passing other vehicles on wintry roads.
  • Keep your windshield clean and make sure your windshield washer system has ample anti-icing fluid. Before you start your trip, make sure the fluid jets aren’t blocked and that your wipers aren’t frozen to the windshield.
  • Defog the inside of your windows by running your air conditioner. You should choose the fresh-air option rather than recirculated air.
  • Even during daylight hours, drive with your lights on to increase your visibility. Make sure your headlights and taillights are clean and clear of snow.
  • Brake carefully to prevent skidding. If you feel your wheels starting to lock up, gently ease off the brakes rather than slamming down on them.
  • Watch out for black ice — a thin, slippery glaze that can make the road appear merely wet or even totally clear and dry, depending on the light.
  • Stay in your lane, especially when visibility is poor.
  • Be especially careful on bridges, overpasses, off-ramps, shady spots and infrequently traveled roads, which tend to freeze first (refer to the black ice warning above).
  • Train yourself to respond properly to skids: If you begin to slide, turn into the direction your rear wheels are sliding. If the back end of your vehicle is sliding to the right, for example, turn your steering wheel to the right. Don’t overcompensate or attempt sudden swerves.
  • Keep your gas tank topped up in the wintertime to reduce the amount of water vapor that could potentially condense and sink into your fuel pump and fuel lines. This can block fuel flow to the engine.
  • Don’t get overconfident. Even if you drive a lot in poor conditions and have a car with 4-wheel drive and snow tires, accidents still happen. Safe winter drivers must remain alert at all times.
Make sure you have the right insurance to protect you and your vehicle

Before you venture out in adverse weather, know the steps you can take to help make sure you arrive at your destination safely. Also, make sure your auto insurance is up to date. Talk to your insurance agent about your current coverage and discuss any recommended changes to help protect your vehicle (and wallet) from winter hazards.

Contact Us

Connect with one of our experts to learn more about how we can help with your auto insurance.

This content is for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing professional, financial, medical or legal advice. You should contact your licensed professional to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. Please refer to your policy contract for any specific information or questions on applicability of coverage.

Please note coverage can not be bound or a claim reported without written acknowledgment from a OneGroup Representative.

Written content in blog post: Copyright © 2019 Applied Systems, Inc. All rights reserved.

Managing Aquaculture Risk

| November 15, 2023
pexels peter simmons 66218

When it comes to your insurance, you shouldn’t have to go fishing for answers. We’ve got you.

Just having insurance won’t always save you when something goes wrong. Having the right insurance and risk prevention will save you in costs in recovery and premium when your business suffers a loss.

Making sure the coverage is there.

How do you know if you have the coverage? Here are a few questions that you can ask your broker to identify common coverage gaps in your policy:

Does my farm have coverage for?

  • An employee sets the wrong temperature in your facilities.
  • Farming control systems malfunction due to breakdown resulting in a loss of fish.
  • You have a ransomware attack with a potential loss of fish.
  • Your water quality has been compromised.
  • Your underground piping associated with your facility.

These are just a few situations that often need specific coverages added to your policies that are not standard.

Plan & Prevent

Sometimes the right coverage isn’t an option and in addition, a loss can raise your overall premium.

What can you do?
Having a proper plan in place when the worst happens, can save your business. What happens if you lose your population, but you have to regenerate it to the same state as they were when you lost them?

Prevention not only saves you from a loss, but it can also lower your premium. Insurance carriers recognize when their insureds make an effort. The right action will save you in the long run and stop a hefty increase after you’ve submitted a claim.

Contact Us

Connect with one of our experts to learn more about how we can help with your business’s unique needs.

For more information, please contact agriculture & life science risk experts Andrew Gregory or Thomas Gregory at AGregory@OneGroup.com or TGregory@OneGroup.com.

This content is for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing professional, financial, medical or legal advice. You should contact your licensed professional to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. Please refer to your policy contract for any specific information or questions on applicability of coverage.

Please note coverage can not be bound or a claim reported without written acknowledgment from a OneGroup Representative.

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Give Thanks Safely

| November 7, 2023
Family Outside Home In Autumn

6 Ways to Avoid an Insurance Claim This Thanksgiving

hanksgiving is a wonderful holiday, filled with food, family and friends. But turkey day can also bring its share of risks and accidents. Here are five tips for staying safe this Thanksgiving.

1. Don’t leave your oven or stove unattended

Don’t let guests distract you while you’re cooking. Thanksgiving is the peak day of the year for home cooking fires (followed by Christmas Day, Christmas Eve and the day before Thanksgiving), according to the National Fire Protection Association.

  • If a fire starts on your stovetop, turn off the burner and quickly cover the pan or pot with a lid to smother the flames.
  • Don’t throw water or flour on stovetop flames. This could cause a fire flare-up or spread the fire. Use baking soda instead.
  • If a fire starts in your oven, turn off the oven and keep the door closed. Opening the oven door could feed the fire (oxygen rush) and cause it to spread.
  • Keep a kitchen fire extinguisher within easy reach (class K is recommended for optimal firefighting safety).
  • If you can’t fight a fire, choose safety and flee your home. For all but the most minor flare-ups, call 911 and have everyone wait outside for firefighters to arrive. Possessions can be replaced, but lives can’t.
2. Follow sound food safety principles.

Food poisoning is not the lasting Thanksgiving memory you want to leave your family and friends with. Wash your hands often as you cook and handle ingredients properly to protect your loved ones from foodborne illnesses.

  • Wash and disinfect utensils and cutting boards, especially when handling raw meat. Keep raw foods separate to prevent cross-contamination.
  • Never reuse meat marinades for sauces unless you boil them thoroughly first.
  • Use a reliable probe thermometer for your turkey. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends a minimum internal temperature of 165 F for safety. 
  • Put leftovers in the fridge promptly to halt the growth of potentially dangerous bacteria.
  • Store uncooked meat on the lowest shelf to prevent dripping and cross-contamination.
  • If serving a buffet-style meal, stay on top of USDA-recommended hot and cold food storage temperatures.
  • Ask your guests about food allergies and modify your food preparation accordingly. Nearly 32 million Americans have food allergies and 200,000 of them are hospitalized every year due to food reactions, says Food Allergy Research and Education. 
3. Keep your pets and guests safe.

The joyful chaos of a bustling holiday home can be scary and stressful for pets. Even normally docile dogs can bite when anxious or frightened, and you can be held legally liable if a guest is injured in your home. Serious dog bites may require medical care and can even lead to lawsuits. You could wind up filing a homeowners claim for these costs.

  • Set aside a space they can retreat to, such as a quiet guest room, and ensure they have enough food and water.
  • Keep the Thanksgiving feast away from your pets. Fatty human foods are hard for animals to digest, and poultry bones can cause choking. Certain desserts contain ingredients that are poisonous to pets. For example, dogs should never have chocolate.
  • If you believe your pet has eaten something it shouldn’t have, call your veterinarian or local emergency pet clinic immediately. You can also call Animal Poison Control at 888-426-4435. (You may have to pay a consultation fee.)
4. Don’t overserve alcohol.

Thanksgiving is a time for celebrating with family and friends, and the festivities often include cocktails. Social host liability laws (which vary by state) allow the victim of a drunk driver to sue the host who served the alcohol. As a host, you may be held liable for alcohol-related mishaps that occur during or after your Thanksgiving gathering.

  • Offer nonalcoholic beverage alternatives and stop serving alcohol toward the end of the gathering.
  • Encourage your guests to use a designated driver or offer them rideshare or taxi gift cards. When in doubt, call a ride or invite them to stay over. Impaired driving can end in accidents, tickets, fines, jail time or worse.
  • Consider purchasing host liquor liability insurance to cover your party. Most renters and homeowners liability policies will cover mishaps, but liability related to alcohol may be excluded from your policy. Let your insurance agent know the details. They’ll help you out.
5. Don’t announce travel plans on social media.

You never know who’s reading your social media posts. Announcing your upcoming travel plans or the fact that you are out of town is like an engraved invitation to a would-be thief.

  • Some burglars use social media posts to target homes. If you want to post about your trip, no problem. Just do it after you’ve safely returned home.
  • If you’re gone for an extended period, set your security alarm, put lights on timers and arrange to have your mail and newspapers held.
  • You can also let trustworthy neighbors know when you’re coming back so they can report any suspicious activity to the police during your absence.
Give thanks safely

Thanksgiving is one of the most popular holidays — and why not? It’s all about giving thanks and enjoying what’s most important. No matter how you choose to make merry, stay safe this Thanksgiving and enjoy your time with friends and family!

Contact Us

Learn more about homeowner’s insurance.

This content is for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing professional, financial, medical or legal advice. You should contact your licensed professional to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. Please refer to your policy contract for any specific information or questions on applicability of coverage.

Please note coverage can not be bound or a claim reported without written acknowledgment from a OneGroup Representative.

Written content in blog post: Copyright © 2022 Applied Systems, Inc. All rights reserved.

Investing & Retirement 101: Managing your company’s 401k

| November 3, 2023
101 Webinar Social Graphics blank

On October 11th, OneGroup conducted our latest 101 Series Webinar, featuring insights from OneGroup Retirement Advisors’ experts Joe Hatfield, AIF, CPFA, Vice President & Financial Consultant, and Mike Tisdell, AIF, CFPA, Vice President & Financial Consultant. They discussed emerging trends in retirement plans in the post-pandemic era, as well as the perspectives and desires of plan sponsors and participants.

The Investopedia.com definition of a plan sponsor describes the term as, “a designated party – usually a company or employer that sets up a healthcare or retirement plan, such as a 401(k), for the benefit of the organization’s employees.”

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when unemployment was at nearly 14%, enhancing retirement plans was not a top priority for many plan sponsors. However, with the unemployment rate now reduced to 3.8% and considering trends like “The Great Resignation” and “Silent Quitting,” more plan sponsors are seeking ways to not only attract but also retain employees. They are becoming more educated about evolving trends and are exploring new opportunities within retirement plans.

The primary objective of employer financial wellness programs is to improve the financial well-being and overall financial health of their employees. These programs aim to help employees effectively manage their finances, reduce financial stress, and make informed decisions about their money. The key goals of employer financial wellness programs include:

  • Reducing financial stress
  • Improving employee retention and recruitment
  • Enhancing employee productivity
  • Preparing for retirement
  • Promoting financial literacy
  • Supporting employee well-being
  • Customizing employer benefits

How can you make your current retirement plan more attractive?

Keep it Simple. Retirement and investment topics may appear basic to plan sponsors, but they can be complex and stressful for employees. Simplicity and flexibility in terms of plan contributions and management can greatly benefit your employees.

Become a “one-stop shop”. Plans offering comprehensive financial wellness features tend to have higher participation. Consider adding features like easy plan setup and management, student debt repayment options, educational resources for plan management, in-plan emergency savings programs, and a user-friendly retirement savings access experience for retirees.

Go above and beyond. A great retirement plan only goes so far if your employees don’t know how to manage it. Offer workshops and consultations on retirement account management, budgeting, financial wellness, debt management, investing, and saving. Additionally, consider setting up an in-plan emergency savings program through payroll deductions to provide peace of mind to your employees.

Know what plan features to look for. Features like automatic enrollment, payroll deductions, prudent deferral rates, and automatic escalation can enhance the attractiveness of your plan.

How can you determine the best options for your employees?

There is no “one size fits all” solution. Many plans have the same core elements, but two plans are rarely identical. Building a plan will ultimately depend on your population, demographic, and your workforce.

Different generations have varying needs. Gen X and Baby Boomers are concerned about accessing their retirement savings, so plans that facilitate this may appeal to them. Gen Z and Millennials are more focused on budgeting, making plans with emergency savings options attractive to them.

Ask for feedback. Ask your employees what they would like to see in a retirement plan. There is not a guarantee that you will be able to accommodate all employees’ requests, but their feedback can be valuable and make your employees feel heard

Other considerations for plan sponsors.

SECURE Act 2.0. SECURE 2.0 is here, and this law adds over 90 new provisions to help Americans save through employer-sponsored plans.  These provisions include automatic enrollment, required minimum distributions, catch-up contributions, and more.

Target Date Funds. A target date fund, also known as a life-cycle fund, is an option that is dated when plan participants are expected to retire. These funds, dated to an expected retirement date, have gained popularity. However, not all are the same, so conducting due diligence is crucial.

Collective Investment Trusts (CITs). CITs are tax-exempt, pooled investment vehicles maintained by banks or trust companies (trustees), which are available only to ERISA-qualified retirement plans. Though CITs are structured much like mutual funds, they are exempt from many of the regulatory requirements that drive mutual fund fees. This structural cost advantage has resulted in the rapid growth of CIT popularity and adoption among qualified retirement plans.

Plan Loans. Offering plan loans has pros and cons. Keep in mind that offering more than one loan may lead to lower contribution rates.

HSA Accounts. Consider exploring Health Savings Accounts (HSA) to engage employees further. HSAs offer flexibility, tax benefits, and long-term emergency healthcare savings options.

Market Projections. Despite increasing college debt, younger professionals are expected to continue contributing to various aspects of retirement plans. Being a comprehensive financial wellness provider can further increase plan participation.

Overall, staying informed about these trends and being responsive to your employees’ evolving needs can help you create an attractive and effective retirement plan.

Contact us and upcoming 101 Series webinar.

If you have questions regarding this webinar or your company’s retirement plan, please email Mike Tisdell at Mike@OneGroupRA.com or submit a form here and mention this webinar to be connected to a OneGroup Retirement Advisor expert.

OneGroup is looking forward to the next webinar in the series and the final session for 2023, Risk Management 101, on Wednesday, December 6, 2023 from 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM EST. Vice President of Risk Management Services, Paul Coderre will discuss risk, risk assessment, and the options for managing business risk. Register for OneGroup’s next webinar here.

This content is for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing professional, financial, medical or legal advice. You should contact your licensed professional to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. Please refer to your policy contract for any specific information or questions on applicability of coverage.

Please note coverage can not be bound or a claim reported without written acknowledgment from a OneGroup Representative.

Avoid Surprise Hikes to Your Medicare Premiums

| October 25, 2023
Taking a break from work, business woman surfs net

Nobody wants to be surprised by higher premiums — especially in retirement.

With Medicare Part B and Part D, there are strategies that may help you avoid increased monthly payments.

The Issue

Most people receive Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) for free. But monthly premiums apply to every individual with Medicare Part B (medical insurance) and Medicare Part D (prescription drug coverage).

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services sets a standard Medicare Part B premium, which is adjusted annually. For 2023, the standard premium is $164.90 a month.

Monthly premiums for Medicare Part D vary by plan.

Monthly premiums for Part B and Part D are based on gross income level and tax return status (individual or joint) from two years prior. For example, your 2023 premium would be based on your 2021 tax return.

The higher your income, the higher your monthly premium for Part B and Part D. These income-related monthly adjusted amounts (IRMAAs) are reset each year. This means you may pay an IRMAA one year but not the next, or vice versa.

The following table shows the 2023 monthly premiums for Medicare Part B based on income for individual and joint tax returns. The IRMAA is the amount added to the 2023 standard monthly premium of $164.90.

Screenshot 2023 10 10 112224

The following table shows the 2023 monthly premiums for Medicare Part D based on income for individual and joint tax returns. The IRMAA is paid in addition to the monthly premium for the Medicare Part D plan you select.

Screenshot 2023 10 10 112029
Strategies to reduce or eliminate IRMAA payments

The financial news magazine Barron’s recommends paying attention to your potential IRMAA payments once you turn 60. If you enroll in Medicare at age 65, your age-63 tax return will determine your monthly premiums. By planning a few years in advance, you have time to collaborate with a trusted adviser to find strategies for reducing or avoiding IRMAA payments.

Here are some factors to consider.

Taxable distributions

It’s not just job-related income that can push you into a higher IRMAA bracket. Taxable distributions from retirement accounts count toward your income in the year they are disbursed.

For example, money taken from an individual retirement account to pay for a vacation or purchase a car will count as income for that year’s tax return and could result in IRMAA payments. And selling a house at a taxable gain when you’re 63 or 64 could lead to a large increase in IRMAA rates two years later.

It’s not always bad to pay the higher rates for a year. Some financial advisors recommend taking extra income for one year to avoid spreading it out and paying higher rates over multiple years. The key is to know what’s coming so you can plan financially.

Income reductions

There are also strategies to reduce your income. Common examples include:

  • Making qualified charitable donations from your individual retirement account.
  • Selling losing investments to offset capital gains.
  • Converting individual retirement accounts to tax-free Roth accounts before required minimum
  • distributions kick in at age 73.

Major life events

In addition, life events can affect your IRMAA status. Life events include:

  • Marriage, divorce or marital annulment
  • Death of a spouse
  • Reduction in work hours
  • Loss of work, including retirement
  • Loss of income property for reasons beyond your control

If any of these events would change your IRMAA status, you can ask for a reconsideration. Contact the Social Security Administration at 800-772-1213 or online.

More Information

For more details on Medicare and IRMAA charges, talk with your benefits adviser, Medicare broker or financial adviser. Insights into Medicare and your financial standing may help you avoid unnecessary hikes to Medicare premiums.

Contact Us

Connect with one of our experts to learn more about our new Medicare Solutions.

We are not a government agency. We are licensed insurance agents who discuss insurance programs such as Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplements and Medicare Part D Prescription Drug coverage. Any information we provide is limited to the plans we offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.

This content is for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing professional, financial, medical or legal advice. You should contact your licensed professional to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. Please refer to your policy contract for any specific information or questions on applicability of coverage.

Please note coverage can not be bound or a claim reported without written acknowledgment from a OneGroup Representative.

Written content in blog post: Copyright © 2022 Applied Systems, Inc. All rights reserved.

How to Protect Your Digital Wallet

| October 24, 2023
Automation & Efficiency

Cyber Bytes: Protecting Your Digital or Mobile Wallet

The terms “digital wallets” and “mobile wallets” are often used interchangeably, but they aren’t exactly the same, even though both connect to bank accounts and credit cards. 

Digital wallets are typically used for completing online transactions on mobile devices or computers. Digital wallet providers usually offer apps you can download to your phone, making the wallet suitable for mobile payments. 

Mobile wallets are digital versions of your wallet stored on a mobile device, like a phone or smartwatch. 

Items you can store in your wallet

In addition to credit cards, you can use your digital and mobile wallets to store things like:

  • Event tickets
  • Gift cards
  • Airline tickets
  • Coupons
  • Loyalty cards
  • Transit fare cards
  • Digital keycards (like those used for hotel rooms)
  • Vehicle keys
  • Identification cards
  • Driver’s licenses
A word on cryptocurrency

Different cryptocurrency exchange platforms have wallets to buy, sell, store and transact cryptocurrency. 

Some cryptocurrency companies created have debit cards, allowing their account holders to convert cryptocurrencies to dollars at the current market value, making purchases more convenient. A few digital wallet companies include the option to add cryptocurrency debit cards to their wallets like you would other wallet items.

The technology behind mobile wallets

Near-field communication (NFC) is a technology that allows devices like phones and smartwatches to exchange bits of data with other devices. NFC also allows these devices to read NFC-equipped cards over relatively short distances. Holding your mobile device near the point-of-sale device allows your wallet to initiate and transfer encrypted data to complete a transaction.

NFC is a progressive evolution of the more basic radio-frequency identification (RFID) tech used in security cards and keychain fobs. In its earliest iterations, NFC was used to tap-share files like documents and photos.

Quick response (QR) codes are matrix bar codes that store information. You use your device’s camera and your wallet’s scanning system to process payment with a merchant.

Wallet security is baked in

Digital and mobile wallets are secure, potentially even more than physical wallets and cards. Digital wallets store virtual versions of credit card data that is encrypted and tokenized. This means none of your card details or account numbers are stored in the wallet on your device (the data lives in the cloud). Wallets use security layers like these to protect your information:

  • Identity authentication when you create your wallet (to verify it’s you and not a threat actor)
  • Personal identification numbers (PINs) and biometric scans (e.g., retina, voice, face or fingerprint)
  • Artificial intelligence or machine learning monitoring (to identify and alert you to suspicious account activity)
  • Payment encryption (to hide your payment information when processed in the app)
  • Virtual account numbers (to mask your actual credit card and account numbers when tapping to pay for things outside the app)
  • Cybersecurity alerts (to keep you informed about the latest scams and ways to thwart them)
  • Mobile device protection (to find a lost device and lock or erase the data on it)

You can opt out of some security features, which might decrease access to specific wallet options like higher credit limits.

Cybersecurity and anti-theft apps for your devices

Your devices need protection, just like computers. Some cybersecurity companies sell protections for multiple devices. For the sake of your digital wallet and identity, it’s worth looking into.

If someone steals your device, there are ways to protect yourself. Post-theft apps can do a host of things, such as:

  • Remotely control your device using text or a portal
  • Track and lock your phone
  • Wipe your phone’s data
  • Alarm or scream for help until the correct password is entered
  • Automatically lock your device if the SIM card is changed
  • Automatically take a photo if someone enters the wrong passcode
  • Automatically email you a photo and GPS location if someone enters an incorrect PIN too many times

With digital and mobile wallets rising in popularity, cybersecurity for devices has become a necessity. Stay current with device updates and take advantage of the security built into your devices and third-party options.

Contact Us

Connect with one of our experts to learn more about how we can help you protect your cyber information.

This content is for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing professional, financial, medical or legal advice. You should contact your licensed professional to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. Please refer to your policy contract for any specific information or questions on applicability of coverage.

Please note coverage can not be bound or a claim reported without written acknowledgment from a OneGroup Representative.

Written content in blog post: Copyright © 2023 Applied Systems, Inc. All rights reserved.

Municipality Safety Needs

| October 20, 2023
pexels pixabay 416405

We Understand Your Intricacies

The Risk Management consultants at OneGroup now offer service programs specifically designed to meet the safety needs of municipalities. Our primary objectives are to support your efforts in compliance, risk reduction, minimization of claim costs, and control of insurance premiums. Our team will partner with your municipality’s staff to structure, implement, and manage the effectiveness of your risk management efforts.

OneGroup can assist your municipality to:

  • Understand the scope and benefits of an effective safety system.
  • Identify gaps in your safety program
  • Build and implement a strategic plan for safety success.
  • Train and educate employees.
  • Execute a safety program that is effective in minimizing both incidents and losses.

Help protect your employees and your company with the OneGroup Risk Management Center (RMC). This online portal provided by OneGroup gives you a unique, web-based suite of safety and risk mitigation tools, designed to empower your organization’s risk management efforts.

The OneGroup RMC includes:

  • Online Risk Management Library
  • Incident Track
  • Training Track
  • Job Description Track
  • SDS Track
  • Audit Track
  • BBS and Safety Observation Track

The RMC works for any organization that wants to proactively manage risk and reduce incidents, claims, and costs. It offers an array of information, including fully customizable safety programs, policies and training tools, and a host of organizational tools to help you manage your safety system. Plus, it’s all part of the value-added service package that you already have as a OneGroup client.

For more information, watch the video below!

https://vimeo.com/871212715/0a95a8c6b7?share=copy
Contact Us

Connect with one of our experts to learn more about how we can help with your business’s needs.

For more information, please contact Risk Management Consultant Todd Goodman at TGoodman@OneGroup.com.

From the Experts

| October 20, 2023
Taking Notes

Tips for PESH & OSHA Inspections

By: Todd Goodman

When a PESH (Public Employee Safety & Health) or OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) inspector arrives, there are several steps you should take. The inspection includes an opening conference, a “walkaround” of all or part of the workplace, and a closing conference. This may take a few hours or several weeks, depending on the number of hazards, workplace size, and other factors.

1. Greet and Identify: Welcome the inspector and ask for their official identification and credentials to verify their authenticity. Call the issuing authority to confirm and make copies of their identification.

2. Notify Management: Alert relevant members of your management team about the inspector’s presence and provide them with the inspector’s details.

3. Accompany the Inspector: Designate a company representative to accompany the inspector throughout the inspection. This person should be knowledgeable about the workplace’s safety protocol.

4. Cooperate: Cooperate fully with the inspector, answering their questions truthfully and providing requested documents and records related to safety and health procedures.

5. Document: Keep a record of the inspector’s observations, questions asked, and areas they inspect. This documentation can be useful for addressing any issues that arise. If the inspector takes a picture the designated company employee should take the same picture.

6. Address Immediate Hazards: If the inspector identifies any immediate safety hazards, take prompt action to address them. This could involve stopping certain activities or implementing temporary measures.

7. Ask Questions: If you’re unsure about the purpose of the inspection or the specific areas the inspector is focusing on, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification.

8. Respect Rights: Both you and the inspector have rights during the inspection. Be sure to respect the inspector’s rights and ask for your rights if necessary.

9. Limit Scope: While being cooperative, it’s also within your rights to ensure the inspection remains within the scope defined by the inspection warrant or reason for the visit.

10. Follow Up: After the inspection, review the inspector’s findings and recommendations. Address any violations or deficiencies promptly and take steps to prevent similar issues in the future.

11. Documentation: Document the actions you’ve taken to address any identified issues. This documentation will be important if there are follow-up visits or if you need to contest any citations.

Remember, maintaining a culture of safety in your workplace is crucial not only for regulatory compliance but also for the well-being of your employees.

Contact Us

Connect with one of our experts to learn more about how we can help with your business’s needs.

For more information, please contact Risk Management Consultant Todd Goodman at TGoodman@OneGroup.com.

Prepare Your Vehicle for Winter

| October 19, 2023

Is Your Vehicle Ready for Winter Weather?

Winter is on its way with cold temperatures, fog, snow and ice. Now is the time to prepare your vehicle for hazardous conditions and treacherous driving.  

Make sure you do the following in order to be ready:

  • Ensure that all fluids are at their proper levels. In cold winter temperatures, it is always a good idea to check your antifreeze level and ensure it is properly rated for the temperatures in your area of the country. In addition, if it is over 5 years old you may want to have it drained and new fluid added. Windshield washer fluid is used year-round, however much more of it is utilized in the winter due to the salt and chemicals used on roads. Ensure you use de-icing wiper fluid, top off the fluid levels and be sure to include that rear window reservoir as well if you have a rear window wiper system.
     
  • Clean and inspect exterior and interior lights. The sun sets much earlier in the winter months and having your vehicle lights working at their best is crucial for everyone’s safety. Replace any non-functioning interior or exterior bulbs and clean your glass or plastic lamp shields. If there are any cracks or leaks, it may be a good idea to see a mechanic for repairs.
     
  • Have your brakes and steering systems inspected. These two systems need to be operating at optimal levels to prevent a collision or rollover. Brake pads and parts should be inspected by a mechanic for wear or defects along with steering system mechanisms. In addition, brake and power steering fluids should be checked and any leaks fixed.
     
  • Check your tire pressure weekly. Ensure that your tire pressure is at the recommended psi specified in your owner’s manual or located on the driver’s side door edge. Tire pressure changes 1 pound per square inch (PSI) for every 5 degrees Celsius change in temperature and sudden drops in temperature can result in underinflated tires. Remember, PSI ratings embossed on the tire are not necessarily the proper pressure for your vehicle. Be sure to check your spare tire as well in case you need to use it.
     
  • Stock up for winter. Although a first-aid kit and a flashlight are essentials that you should have in your vehicle all year, there are other highly recommended items you should have on hand for winter such as an ice scraper/brush, shovel and a bag of kitty litter.  
     
  • Prepare for the Unexpected. For severe weather and/or long trips, consider keeping these additional items in your car: a 24-48hr supply of drinks and high energy snacks, extra batteries, charging cables, jumper cables, a blanket and warm clothing. If you are traveling with children, it is a good idea to bring along books, cards or games to keep them entertained in the event you get stuck.

Be prepared for winter by taking the above steps as well as maintaining slower driving speeds and allowing a safe stopping distance during winter driving conditions.

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This content is for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing professional, financial, medical or legal advice. You should contact your licensed professional to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. Please refer to your policy contract for any specific information or questions on applicability of coverage.

Please note coverage can not be bound or a claim reported without written acknowledgment from a OneGroup Representative.

Written content in blog post: Copyright © 2022 Applied Systems, Inc. All rights reserved.

Becoming A-OK with Insuring AI

| October 17, 2023
Drone quadrocopter with camera. New tool for farmers use drones to inspect of cultivated fields. Modern technology in agriculture.

Your insurance deserves to be paced alongside technological advancements.

By Pierre Morrisseau

Artificial Intelligence (AI) defined as, “the intelligence of machines or software, as opposed to the intelligence of human beings or animals,” is transforming the way both large and small businesses conduct day-to-day operations on a highly uncertain basis. When we talk about uncertainty with AI, it usually stems from the often-muddy perspective on where it’s headed and whether it is going to be an overall positive impact for society. So far, I’ve talked to a few businesses who have been “dipping their toes” into the incorporation of AI into business functions, and I’ve gotten both excited and cautioned reactions. These businesses have never been so optimized before and the worry is, well, what if it all goes wrong?

The world today is changing exponentially alongside the dynamic implementation of AI into many businesses. Although we think of AI as partial to the tech industry, AI is flooding the food manufacturing, horticulture, and agricultural spaces faster than ever. Agricultural businesses have begun using AI to power combines, determine crop and soil quality, and even predict weather and crop yield. The horticulture industry has seen examples of robots backed by AI to grow and maintain indoor greenhouse functions. Additionally, the food manufacturing industry has harnessed AI to provide support in supply chain management, quality control, and more.

Some benefits to incorporating AI into these industries include:

  • Supply chain efficiency
  • Waste reduction
  • Improved employee productivity and job satisfaction
  • Reduction of labor intensity
  • Increased sustainability
  • Lower costs
  • Crop and soil monitoring
  • Disease detection
  • Decreased environmental impact
  • Diminishing use of pesticides
  • Lower shipping costs
  • Improved business forecasting

Insuring the unsure

One of the most difficult factors to account for, not just in insuring dynamic AI-based businesses but in all businesses, is the unknown. Although policies like to predict and cater to the statistically possible, it is the “what if” that leaves a lot of businesses vulnerable. AI is one of those factors that has a heavy index of the unfamiliar. Yes, artificial intelligence has been around for decades and has been used in daily life for a long time; however, it has never been used to such an extent that it is beginning to physically replace human labor and thought. Luckily, the leaders of OneGroup’s New England region have a special knack for being able to account for this level of dynamicity and really customize how insurance can come into play to protect businesses who have decided to harness this technology.

A few weeks back, I sat down with OneGroup New England Regional President, Andrew Gregory, and we discussed some pressing current events and stories regarding all the things that have gone wrong for businesses, and how the damage was mitigated. Working with such elusive businesses such as AI-operated horticulture, agriculture, and food manufacturing, Andrew has been able to look beyond the predictable and into a world of risk that most people wouldn’t consider. For clients that are heavily reliant on AI-operated production, OneGroup takes a layered approach at reducing the total cost of risk, which can really drive down the hit from huge losses associated with AI failure or business interruption.

In real-time

Recently, I came across a news story that shed some light on the potential pitfalls of AI. It was a story about a CEO of an e-commerce company who replaced 90% of the company’s employees with AI. This story gave me some pause, because there were so many different layers to be considered. Whether AI is right for your business or not, it is important to be aware of the idea that there are not only tangible problems, but intangible issues from a human resources standpoint, like the mass-termination of employees, associated with AI that are very far-reaching and complicated. It is important to keep in mind that with any new polarizing and fast-growing innovation, there will be aspects that are overlooked and unforeseeable problems that arise. It is pertinent that business leaders are continually adapting to the technology and accounting for as many “what ifs” as possible, not only on the ethical side but from a product quality perspective as well.

When integrating AI into a business, officials need to consider the risk of data breach, malfunction, and so much more. With the connotation of AI being an “everything, everywhere, all at once” platform, we tend to ignore the human who programmed the machine. What happens to their risk and exposure? They are, after all, “the man behind the curtain.”

OneGroup is able to find specific, comprehensive policies that are beneficial to business and make sure clients maintain their financial well-being and success even in the most unlikely of circumstances. There is a real benefit to having someone who understands the ins and outs of your day-to-day business operations, and we can provide that.

Pierre Morrisseau
Chief Executive Officer
PMorrisseau@OneGroup.com

Follow Pierre on LinkedIn to keep up on his conversations with other thought leaders!

This content is for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing professional, financial, medical or legal advice. You should contact your licensed professional to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. Please refer to your policy contract for any specific information or questions on applicability of coverage.

Please note coverage can not be bound or a claim reported without written acknowledgment from a OneGroup Representative.

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