IAG introduces vaccine mandate

didn’t think it was correct to say the commissioning work was a service or a repair. In the context of the insured’s policy, FSCL thought service meant ‘routine maintenance’ (of a machine) and repair meant ‘fixing something that was broken’. Resolution

FSCL issued a decision explaining to the insured that it didn’t think the commissioning of the farm machinery was a service or a repair, and so the insurer was correct to decline the claim. We recommended that the insured discontinue their complaint.

INSIGHTS FOR CONSUMERS

This case highlighted the importance of negotiating the correct terms when taking out an insurance policy for your business.

Both policies that the insured had for his business had amendments to them which limited the scope of cover.

It is important to consider the type of risk you want insured when you are negotiating with an insurer.

The insurer might want to limit cover or they could charge you higher premiums for a policy with the standard terms and conditions.

As a business consumer you really need to think about what possible things could go wrong when you’re doing business so you can make sure you have the right type and amount of cover. If in doubt about what to do, you may wish to seek advice from an insurance adviser.

IAG, the owner of AMI, State, NZI, NAC, Lumley and Lantern, has introduced a vaccine mandate for employees working in its offices, and locations where staff interact with the public.

The range of Covid-19 health and safety measures has been enforced to “protect its people, customers and the wider community”, the insurance group said.

IAG will also require that its business partners, including brokers, must be vaccinated before entering IAG premises.

Amanda Whiting, chief executive of IAG New Zealand, said the compulsory vaccination policy was introduced following a consultation with employees. “We have made this decision because we strongly believe it is the right thing to do. “Since the start of the pandemic our decision making has been guided by government advice and the priority of keeping people safe. We have always adhered to government restrictions, and in many cases, gone above and beyond those to provide our people, partners and customers with additional protections.

“As the pandemic continues to evolve, there is no question that vaccination is the best way to keep everyone safe in the short and long-term.

“We want to do our bit for New Zealand.”

The mandate comes as IAG makes it easier for staff to work from home.

The insurer has also increased the amount of paid leave employees can access during this time.

In addition, IAG has offered all staff are paid ‘wellness day’ this year, as well as two additional paid half-days of leave to receive their COVID-19 vaccinations.

IAG has also introduced additional provisions for paid ‘special leave’ should an employee or family member contract COVID-19.

“We have more than 3500 employees across the country and our approach has been to ensure they have the time and space needed to get vaccinated and prioritise their mental and physical health.

“We have been delighted with the positive response we have received from our people so far and will continue to work with them to adjust and adapt our approach to protect all people into the future,” Whiting said.