It is everyone’s responsibility to keep a construction site safe. General contractor liability insurance is one of the first steps. The General Contractor, sub-contractors, independent contractors, architects, engineers, clients and visitors are all subject to dangers from machinery, falling objects and other hazards.
Here’s one of the things you can do when you notice that workers and others are in danger of injury on a construction site:
Speak up before it is too late
A contractor who is in danger or violating safety protocols may be doing so either out of ignorance or mere negligence. If you see this, it is better to take a proactive approach before someone gets hurt – or worse! Sometimes it is difficult to speak up. But with so much at stake it could be better to annoy the contractor than let them run into trouble that they could still avoid. Inform the contractor of the danger they have overlooked in the most professional and calm way.
Where everyone is in danger
Furthermore, you might remind them that the effects of their unsafe actions may affect not only themselves. But other contractors as well, and may result in bodily injury, fatalities, property damage or even work failure.
You could also mention that they could face financial loss if faced with a lawsuit for bodily injury, property damage or negligence. If they are a General Contractor, they will have This insurance in place (otherwise they wouldn’t have a license). However, will it be enough to cover all liability issues as well as legal and medical costs?
Safety protocols and more
General Contractor Liability Insurance protects against consequences of violating safety precautions. This includes:
- Bodily injury. General Contractor Liability Insurance covers certain claims alleging financial loss due to bodily injury arising out of your business operations. Remember that this injury has to be from a third-party and not from the contractor’s company.
- Property Damage. General Contractor Liability Insurance covers property damage to property damage arising from the contractor’s actions
- Medical payments. General Contractor Liability Insurance helps cover medical costs if an injury occurs and someone needs medical treatment.
Is it enough?
It may be enough depending on your business operations and the risks it entails. It is important to disclose the entire business operations to your agent so they can include the most threatening risk and get it covered. Perhaps this is the best one to mention because you may haven’t given that a thought.
General Contractors must prepare for the worst
When it comes to the dangerous business of construction, it is better to prepare. Obviously this includes adhering to safety protocols. This is why it’s everyone’s responsibility to speak out when things don’t look safe. The other way to ensure that everyone once the building site is protected, is for all contractors to invest in both General Contractor Liability Insurance as well as coverage for legal defense costs.
Unsure about the best coverage against insurance claims? We’ll answer your questions. Speak to our experienced insurance agents at Contractors Liability. Call (866) 225-1950.
James Wallace did his degree in psychology at the University of Hertfordshire. He is interested in mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.
