This story appears in the
January 2005 issue of
Entrepreneur.
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Are you taking advantage of everything your insurance company
has to offer? Most insurers offer their clients a variety of free
services that can save you money, improve your business and reduce
your risks.
"We'd love to see far more of our clients either call
us or tap into our website," says Everett Waite, vice
president of risk control at Cleveland-based St Paul
Travelers. Free services your insurer probably offers
include:
- Risk-management
analysis: The insurer will send someone to inspect your
facility and make suggestions for improvements.
- Safety programs and
training: Waite says his company offers free classes and
other training materials to teach clients how to handle a wide
range of safety issues, including how to conduct an accident
investigation and how to make sure your facility is in compliance
with all applicable OSHA regulations.
- Discounts on
programs and equipment from other vendors: Insurance
companies often form alliances with various vendors that will give
policyholders discounts.
- Current news and
information: Insurers provide policyholders with the latest
information on risk and safety issues, and will help clients
develop appropriate policies and procedures.
To find out what your insurance company can do for you, contact
your insurer's risk-control manager and simply ask what's
available.
Jacquelyn Lynn is a freelance business writer in Orlando,
Florida.