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As employers prepare post-COVID-19 workplaces, supporting employees’ mental health can be as critical as creating a safe physical environment. Safety measures, such as sanitizing protocols and respiratory hygiene, are vital considerations for physical wellness. Taking a broader view of employee health that also includes emotional and social wellness can help employees manage uncertainty, engage in the workplace and adjust to a “new normal.”
Focusing on mental health is especially important during the readjustment phase. Employees may bring new stressors after weeks of sheltering in place that employers need to consider – from fear of infection at work to personal issues, such as child care concerns or substance abuse. Some may have delayed medical care, while others may be feeling financial stress or mourning lost loved ones. Others may be feeling the toll on their mental health in the form of anxiety, sleeplessness or depression. Emotional and Social Reintegration in the Age of COVID-19 “These uncertain times are stressful, and we know that stress can lead to poor performance and poor health,” said Dr. Marcos Iglesias, Medical Director at Travelers. “Now is the time to start conversations about the future and drafting a road map that works for your organization.” As COVID-19 restrictions are gradually lifted, recognizing employees’ emotional and social health can help them reintegrate into the workforce and allow employers to offer additional resources when needed. Here are some strategies to help support mental health as employees return to work: 1. Practice Clear and Frequent Communication Communicating with employees about plans to reopen can help keep them engaged and provide a sense of normalcy. Employees will want to hear about their company’s response plans, from social distancing to wearing personal protective equipment (PPE), as well as details about workforce and financial stability. “It is important for employees to know what to expect as they return to the workplace,” Dr. Iglesias said. “That can help remove some of the uncertainty and reassure employees that you have their best interest in mind.” When you share public health and safety information with employees, it should come from credible sources, such as the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), state health departments, and reputable medical organizations and journals. 2. Train Supervisors to Recognize At-Risk Employees While many employees will be fine once they return to work, there may be some who have a harder time reentering the workplace and readjusting. Supervisors and managers can play a critical role in communicating with employees, providing stability and recognizing signs of distress. A recent study shows that 57% of workers are comfortable with their manager asking them about their mental health and 41% want their manager to proactively ask them. It’s crucial that supervisors and managers are trained in how to recognize employees who may be in distress and to know when and how to intervene. A simple, “Are you okay?” may open the door to better communication and provide an opportunity to gauge an employee’s mental health risk. Supervisors can also create a welcoming environment for employees who may be returning in a modified duty role or who may have recovered from COVID-19 and may fear being stigmatized. Setting expectations and having clear communication can help these employees readjust to the workplace. 3. Evaluate Flexible Work Arrangements Employers may want to consider flexible work arrangements, such as adjusted schedules and remote working when possible. These may be necessary during reintegration to reduce stress for those dealing with personal and family issues, such as school closures or caring for loved ones. Companies may also need to reconsider their policies for paid time off, sick leave, leaves of absence, disability and bereavement, based on unique situations that their employees face. Continuing the open communication once employees return can help address challenges and identify solutions. 4. Consider Workplace Accommodations Returning to work may create anxiety for some due to social proximity, especially when using shared workstations, shared dining space and food prep areas. Employees may ask for accommodations, such as separate work areas, physical barriers, face masks, PPE, cleaning equipment and working from home. This may be especially important for certain employees, such as those with chronic medical conditions and those over age 60. 5. Provide Access to Mental Health Resources Employers must have available mental health resources for employees in need. This may take the form of an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) or a referral to external organizations that can provide crisis intervention, counseling or other assistance. Easy access to and promotion of a company’s EAP can help provide many helpful resources – not just mental health – to employees in need. The COVID-19 pandemic has activated a surge in the use of telehealth, including remote and virtual interactions between individuals and healthcare providers. Access to telehealth can be an important part of an effective strategy for facilitating care to employees post COVID-19, and may offer an efficient alternative to in-person rehabilitation, addiction and mental health appointments. Resilience training may also help employees feel more empowered as they return to work. There may be cases when urgent intervention is needed: suicide risk and threats of violence. Employees need to know how to identify this risk and what to do in these crisis situations, and providing them with a plan is imperative.
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The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted every part of daily life, from sheltering in place to lost paychecks. While car insurance is no exception, the good news is that every major provider has pledged to help Americans in need like never before. To separate fact from fiction, we spoke with experts and analysts across the country to determine exactly how the coronavirus crisis will affect your car insurance.
Is my insurer going to give me money back? As of March 22nd, the number of cars on the road had fallen dramatically, about 20%, following the declaration of a national emergency in the U.S. Many of the largest auto insurance companies recently announced they will be responding to the lowered risk of auto claims with premium rebates for customers. State regulators are also putting pressure on all insurers to step up to support consumers with measures like extended grace periods, so if your insurer hasn’t yet responded with meaningful actions, you can routinely check its website to catch updates or reach out directly. Should I change my auto coverage because of COVID-19? While you can definitely reach out to your insurance company to see if your lowered mileage could mean a discounted rate, keep the following in mind: Don’t cancel coverage you’ll need in the future. Canceling your car insurance, even if it’s only for a limited period of time, can have several negative impacts:
How can I lower my monthly payments? Increase your deductible Your deductible is the amount of money you agree to pay out of pocket before the insurance coverage will kick in. Increasing your deductible helps lower your premium because you’ll be on the hook for a larger part of any potential losses, but that also means saving on your bill now is something you’ll need to weigh with your ability to take that additional risk. Reduce your liability coverage limits Lowering your liability coverage limits can also help you save on insurance, but it will likely make a smaller dent than changing your deductible. Your car insurance coverage will have both bodily injury and property damage liability, or the maximum amount your insurance company will cover, if you cause damage to someone else or their property. Switch to a usage-based plan If you’re driving fewer miles than usual, you may want to consider a usage-based car insurance plan. While traditional car insurance is priced using factors like your age and claims history, usage-based insurance relies on driving data (usually gathered through an app on your phone) to determine how much you pay for coverage. Many larger insurers are starting to offer usage-based options. This option would be best for users who are likely to benefit from a usage-based policy for the long-term, though. Switching insurers too often can signal that you’re not a loyal customer, which can mean you may be quoted higher rates from even other insurers in the future. Will my future auto insurance premiums be affected by COVID-19? Most drivers are well aware that an increase in claims can spike car insurance rates, but the economy as a whole is also closely tied to an insurance company’s business. Will auto insurance claims be affected by COVID-19? With social distancing measures in place across the country, insurers are making sure their employees and customers stay safe by keeping the claims process digital. This may be a big change from a typically hands-on process or you may not see a change at all. What if I can’t afford my auto insurance payments because of COVID-19? If you are struggling with your car insurance premiums, you should contact your insurer. Many are addressing the COVID-19 pandemic with programs to assist policyholders. For more information, please contact Theodore & Associates today. Your building is now vacant due to Shelter in Place Key Tips to Consider... As we weather this national crisis and shelter in place, many of our buildings and surrounding property are attractive targets for thieves and other would-be criminals. Before shuttering your doors and leaving your business for, what could be, weeks at a time, consider these tips... Utilities
• Are unnecessary electrical appliances and equipment disconnected/unplugged. • Turn down temperature on hot water heater to conserve energy. • Set thermostat to minimal setting (55° F) to conserve energy but keep out the freeze and/or set low temperature alarms. Failing to maintain heat appropriately can void coverage if pipes freeze and burst. • Sprinkler system also need to be protected from temperatures below 40F to ensure proper operation. • During warmer months or in warmer climates, make sure to set your air conditioning to a minimum of 85 degrees otherwise if your building gets too warm it will become susceptible to damage from humidity and mold. • Check that sump pump is operational and remote alarms are working. • Ensure all refrigerators and freezers are secure and doors are closed. • Irrigation systems should be turned off and disconnected to prevent accidental flooding. Security • Does the building look secure from the street? • Are all vehicle entrances and exits locked/secured? • Are all windows and doors locked? • Have you contacted the police and requested random checks? • Have you alerted neighbors or neighborhood watch programs that the building will be vacant so they can also assist with random check? • Is there a centrally monitored security system in place (door contacts, window tape, motion sensors, video surveillance, etc….) • Has updated contact information been given to companies that centrally monitor security and fire alarms, as contact names/information may have changed from normal operations. • Arrangements should be made, if possible, to inspect the building at least weekly. Document the inspection with photos and utilize our check list. • Can security camera be added or maintained operational to cover the interior/exterior of the facility? o Have temporary, wireless cameras been considered? • Are there exterior aspects of your building that you need to consider: o Temporary weather proofing; o Drainage or flooding hazards; o Gutters and down spouts cleared? • Contact your agent to discuss potentially relocating some high dollar items, temporarily to a more secure location. Inventory • Do you have a list of inventories on hand? o Is it backed up off site? o If it were stolen or damaged what would you need for lead time to replace those items? • Tools and Equipment • Computers and Technology – Are there backups made daily with offsite storage of back-ups? • Furniture, Artwork, Fixtures. • Other Assets Perishable Inventory • Do you have products on auto-order that needs to be suspended for the time being? • Are you practicing all the necessary requirements per your local health department or FDA guidelines? • Do you have a remote alarm on refrigerators and freezers so that you are made away of a temperatures spike? o If this were to occur do you have a plan in place for dealing with this alarm? • Are you maximizing the products on hand to consider items reaching expiration? Fire • Have you contacted the local fire department to alert them of the vacancy and any changes to building access that now may have changed? • Additional monitoring may be necessary because of the following reasons: o There may be a delay in reporting of fires because of the vacancy o Fire could also start due to smoking trespassers, arsonists, faulty wiring or drug production. o Transients/homeless seeking shelter may have open fires for cooking or providing heat. • Are there centrally monitored fire detection systems in place? • Is the Automatic sprinkler system on and locked open with centrally monitored tamper switches operational? Making a plan for how to respond Having a good response plan is as essential as protecting your business investments. When developing a plan, consider communication beforehand with local responders, such as fire and police departments, emergency clean-up companies and security companies. Your livelihood may depend upon it in an emergency. And remember, if you have a helper with you when closing down, be sure to “social distance” from one another. With the evolving and significant changes happening in the world around the
coronavirus and its impact on commercial insureds, we have received a number of questions from our clients regarding business income coverage. Designed to protect a business in the event of an interruption in operations caused by a physical loss that results in financial downturn, business income coverage serves to cover the period of time it takes to rebuild, repair or replace damaged property. Requirements for the coverage to trigger vary across insurance carriers. Additionally, each state has its own department of insurance that governs what is acceptable insurance language which can cause variations from state to state. Most insurance companies policy forms incorporate approved Insurance Services Office (ISO) policy terms and conditions. Following ISO, the business income insuring agreement requires a covered cause of loss that causes direct physical loss of, or damage to, the property at the described premises. The cause of loss must also cause a necessary interruption of operations that results in business income loss. Without a direct physical loss, business income coverage will not be triggered. There will also not be a period of restoration of property to determine business income loss. In addition to the terms of business income coverage, policies include Exclusion of Loss Due To Virus or Bacteria (form numbers CP0140 or CP7140), which exclude commercial property losses resulting from any virus, bacterium or other microorganism that induces or is capable of inducing physical distress, illness or disease. Form number CP0140 is found on newer Insurance policies. Form number CP7140 appears on older policies. These endorsements have been used since they were issued and filed by ISO several years ago. With any claim, policy wording and the specific trigger driving losses determine the applicability of coverage. If a formal property business income claim is filed, it will be adjusted on the applicable policy wording and specific details driving the loss. Theodore & Associates is committed to supporting you through the challenges of the coronavirus. We will continue to monitor the evolving situation and work with you through this uncertain time. Over the span of the last few months, there has been an outbreak of respiratory illness caused by a new coronavirus which can be spread from person to person. Certain measures can be taken to reduce the likelihood of contracting the illness. Due to the large number of cases of illness including rising deaths resulting from the virus, it is important to stay informed. Details are still developing and no vaccine is currently available. In order to keep the virus contained, a travel ban has been issued for many countries (NOTE: The Department of State has restrictions posted on their site as well. Before traveling, be sure to get the latest on the region you plan to visit).
As of February 11, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) has announced a name (COVID-19) for the coronavirus that originated from Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. It is important to remember to use standard hygiene practices to avoid this and any other respiratory illnesses (such as seasonal influenza which is typical this time of year in US communities). UPDATE: As the situation evolves daily, the best source of information is the WHO daily situation report that maintains data on the current number of confirmed cases by country. Travel CDC recommends avoiding nonessential travel to China. If you must travel:
Prevention The CDC recommends the following in order to prevent COVID19 and other viral infections:
Facemasks There are several types of facemasks on the market today. There is a distinct difference, however, between what is commonly known as a “surgical mask” and an N95 respirator:
Additional information The CDC website has a wealth of information to remain up-to-date on what you should know. Remember not to make any determinations of risk based on race or country of origin. Confidentiality of people with any health issue including COVID-19 should be maintained. As we know more about transmissibility, severity, and other features of COVID-19, we will do our best to update you. Please visit the dedicated CDC page for updated information.These are everyday habits that can help prevent the spread of several viruses.
With continued flight cancellations and imposed travel restrictions, it's important to know what travel insurance covers.
As reported cases of coronavirus increase, the outbreak is stoking fears among travelers. Several countries, including the U.S., have imposed travel restrictions that include quarantines to contain the virus. At least 73 airlines have canceled or limited flights to China. And now cruise lines have begun to take notice following a recent outbreak on a ship in Japan. Given these developments, consumers may be wondering whether travel insurance will protect them in case they cancel their trip, become sick while abroad, or if their flight is grounded. But consumers need to understand that their travel policy doesn’t protect them from everything. So it helps to find out ahead of time what is and isn’t covered. Cancellation coverage? Don’t count on it Tour operators and travel insurance brokers are reporting an increasing number of requests from customers asking to change their travel plans. Meanwhile, many U.S. airlines, including United, America and Delta, have canceled several flights to China. Consumers may be surprised to learn that in either situation, their travel policy probably wouldn’t cover them. Most travel insurance is designed to protect you in case you need to cancel a trip, lose belongings, or require medical attention. But for cancellations related to coronavirus, only certain reasons qualify. Here’s a breakdown. Airline cancels flight: Not usually covered Reimbursing a canceled flight is generally the responsibility of the airline — not the insurer. The same goes for cruise lines, rail companies, or any other transportation provider that cancels because of coronavirus or any other reason. That doesn’t necessarily mean the transportation provider will cover all expenses. Airlines, for example, are not required to refund canceled flights and may limit the extent of the reimbursement. Fare policies vary, so it’s a good idea for travelers to review them before booking a flight. Traveler chooses to cancel a trip: Not covered Travel insurance will cover consumers who have to cancel their trip for reasons including adverse weather, a natural disaster, jury duty, an act of terrorism, or the travel company going out of business. But it won’t protect travelers who cancel because they are worried about the coronavirus. Traveler contracts coronavirus and has to cancel: Covered Travelers are protected if they have to cancel a trip because of personal sickness or injury, or the sickness, injury or death of an immediate family member. Quarantine: Covered Most standard policies will cover cancellation or interruption if the traveler is placed under quarantine, or if the destination is placed under a mandatory evacuation. Although standard policies don’t cover all cancellations, some travel policies offer “cancel any reason” provisions or flight delay benefits that will provide reimbursement. Again, here’s where reading the fine print comes in. Illness protection — it’s in the details The good news for consumers is that most policies protect travelers who become sick while abroad. But the details of the policy matter. Travel insurance is intended to cover medical costs abroad. As long as the policy includes medical coverage, the traveler is protected should he or she require medical care, hospitalization, or a medical evacuation while in a foreign country. But travelers need to understand the stipulations of their policy from the outset. Here are some considerations: Primary or secondary payer? A secondary payment policy is designed to pay for costs that the traveler’s personal insurance does not cover. This may mean the traveler has to pay deductibles and co-pays out of pocket. A primary payment policy, however, serves as the first payer for any medical costs that arise. Limits All policies have a maximum they will pay, and many also have deductibles and other limitations. Exclusions Policies may exclude coverage for certain situations, such as risky activities. So thrill-seekers like skydivers and bungee jumpers might be out of luck. Supplemental policies A separate health policy, or rider, may be helpful for covering things a standard policy might exclude (like that skydiving expedition). A traveler may be able to purchase a rider to extend coverage in case of injury. A rider for foreign medical care coverage might also be useful, although those types of provisions are rare. In most cases, a standard travel policy is sufficient. There are several types of policies with different levels and coverage for all sorts of travel. Some policies may be specific to cruises, where it may become critical to evacuate to a hospital. Other policies are geared more toward adventure travel. Riders are meant to provide coverage that’s missing from a primary policy. So if a policy excludes coverage for dangerous activities such as bungee jumping, a traveler may be able to purchase a rider to extend coverage in case of injury. Reality check The headlines may paint a scary picture of the coronavirus, but it helps for U.S. travelers to keep facts and figures in perspective. As of Feb 25, 2020, there have been more than 80,000 confirmed cases of coronavirus, according to the World Health Organization. Of those, 77,780 were reported in China, where the outbreak originated. And although some U.S. airlines have canceled flights, bear in mind that almost all of these cancellations involve flights to and from China. The U.S. has temporarily barred entry for anyone traveling from China who isn’t a U.S. citizen, permanent resident or immediate family member of either. Travelers planning a trip to the Western Pacific region may want to give more thought to their insurance coverage. For travelers who are headed anywhere else in the world, chances are they’ll be in good shape with a standard policy. The key is for travelers to determine their actual risk, understand what they are trying to cover, and then find a policy that accomplishes that. |
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