Top 10 Claims-Related Risks for Cities by flcities

TOP 10 CLAIMSRELATED RISKS

1 SLIPS, TRIPS AND FALLS

SLIPS, TRIPS AND FALLS

Slips, trips and falls (STFs) are a significant and common hazard in the public sector. They pose potential risks to individuals and organizations.

‣ In the public sector, liability insurance claims arising from STFs are prevalent and can lead to substantial financial consequences.

‣ These incidents can occur in settings including government buildings, public spaces and infrastructure.

‣ Public sector entities must recognize the potential legal and financial implications of STFs and take proactive measures to reduce these risks.

Liability insurance claims related to STFs in the public sector often revolve around premises liability, where property owners or managers are held responsible for maintaining safe environments. Organizations must prioritize risk management strategies that address the root causes of STFs to significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents and liability claims:

‣ Implement regular maintenance and inspection protocols.

‣ Promptly address potential hazards.

‣ Provide adequate signage.

‣ Invest in employee training programs to enhance awareness of safety protocols.

Reducing liability risks associated with STFs in the public sector aligns with the broader goal of ensuring public safety and well-being.

‣ Public entities demonstrate commitment to the welfare of citizens and visitors by proactively addressing potential hazards.

‣ Implementing effective risk management measures not only protects against liability claims but also contributes to public institutions’ overall reputation and trustworthiness.

‣ Ongoing efforts to mitigate STFs underscore the importance of a safer and more secure environment for everyone.

The Florida Municipal Insurance Trust’s (FMIT’s) Safety Excellence Initiative Resource Library has resources relating to slips, trips and falls. To access the following resources, go to bit.ly/3KrWA5P and log in.

‣ E114 Slip, Trip and Fall Safety Awareness Course

‣ E89 Office Safety Awareness Slide Presentation Course (Short)

‣ E110 Sidewalk Safety Inspections Course

The SEI Resource Library is a vast database of safety programs, policies and procedures specifically designed for Florida’s municipal governments. Most programs in the library can be edited to fit your specific needs. A login ID and password are required to access the Resource Library. Contact your dedicated FMIT Risk and Safety Consultant to arrange access if needed.

More information about the FMIT’s Risk and Safety Management Department and its offerings is available at bit.ly/3X28OcX

POLICE AND FIRE –TRAINING-RELATED CLAIMS

The frequency of injuries during law enforcement and fire/EMT training exercises has raised concerns in Florida municipalities and posed significant challenges.

‣ The demanding nature of these exercises, often designed to simulate real life, increases the risk of injuries among first responders.

‣ These injuries range from sprains and strains to more severe incidents affecting law enforcement officers and emergency medical personnel.

‣ Municipalities are grappling with a surge in workers’ compensation claims.

The associated costs of workers’ comp claims for injuries sustained during training exercises considerably burden municipalities.

‣ The financial strain arises from the direct medical expenses and the subsequent impact on workers’ comp premiums.

‣ The need for comprehensive rehabilitation and recovery programs further escalates the costs tied to these incidents.

‣ Municipalities are forced to allocate significant parts of their budgets to address these financial challenges. They divert resources that could be used for other critical needs.

Beyond the financial implications, the injuries sustained during training exercises have broader operational consequences for law enforcement and emergency services agencies.

‣ Loss of workforce due to injuries results in extended downtime, which affects the overall efficiency and responsiveness of crucial services.

‣ Scheduling conflicts arise as municipalities struggle to maintain adequate staffing.

‣ They often resort to overtime pay to compensate for the shortage. This exacerbates the financial strain on municipalities, contributes to employee burnout and compromises the overall well-being of the emergency services workforce.

This issue requires a comprehensive approach, including:

‣ Enhanced safety protocols

‣ Improved training methodologies

‣ Increased awareness of the long-term impact of training exercise injuries on personnel and operations

The Florida Municipal Insurance Trust’s Safety Excellence Initiative Resource Library has resources relating to stretching and physical demands analysis that may help reduce injuries. To access the following resources, go to bit.ly/3KrWA5P and log in.

‣ C70 Law Enforcement Warming UpWarmup and Stretching

‣ C71 Officer Physical Readiness Program

‣ C31 Physical Demands Analysis

More information about the FMIT’s Risk and Safety Management Department and its offerings is available at bit.ly/3X28OcX.

SEWER BACKUP

Sewer backup claims have become a recurring concern in Florida municipalities. They pose a significant challenge to homeowners and local authorities.

‣ These claims often arise from a combination of aging infrastructure, extreme weather events and inadequate maintenance practices.

‣ Residents frequently grapple with property damage, health hazards and financial burdens from these backups.

‣ Municipalities must adopt proactive measures to prevent sewer backups, which will ensure the well-being of residents and the longevity of infrastructural systems.

Florida municipalities should prioritize infrastructure upgrades and maintenance as well as public awareness to address the rising claims.

‣ Aging sewer systems are more susceptible to failures and blockages, which leads to increased incidents of backups.

‣ Regular inspections, repairs and modernization efforts can significantly reduce the risks.

‣ Municipalities should invest in campaigns to educate residents on responsible waste disposal practices.

‣ Encouraging proper disposal of fats, oils, grease and nonflushable items can prevent blockages and alleviate stress on the sewer systems.

Integrating smart technology can be pivotal in early detection and rapid response to potential sewer issues.

‣ Implementing advanced monitoring systems, such as sensors and predictive analytics, can help identify vulnerabilities in sewer networks before they escalate.

‣ Timely intervention can prevent extensive damage and financial losses for homeowners and municipalities.

All material provided in this pamphlet is for general informational purposes only. It is neither legal advice nor a substitute for advice from your public-entity attorney or risk manager. This pamphlet is not meant to be exhaustive and there are many additional claims-related risks.

By combining infrastructure upgrades, public education initiatives and technological advancements, Florida municipalities can foster a resilient and efficient sewer system, mitigate the frequency and severity of sewer-backup claims and enhance residents’ overall quality of life.

The Florida Municipal Insurance Trust’s Safety Excellence Initiative Resource Library has resources relating to sewer backup mitigation programs. To access the following resources, go to bit.ly/3KrWA5P and log in.

‣ C196 Sewer Backup Management Policy

‣ C202 Sewer Backup Prevention Information for Homeowners

‣ C199 Self-Inspection Form for Sewers

More information about the FMIT’s Risk and Safety Management Department and its offerings is available at bit.ly/3X28OcX.

LIGHTNING STRIKES

Despite Florida often being called the “Sunshine State,” it is known for its frequent and severe lightning strikes. This climatic phenomenon poses a significant challenge for municipalities due to a surge in lightning-related insurance claims.

‣ The state records a high frequency of lightning strikes: The average is about 1.4 million flashes yearly.

‣ The severity of these strikes contributes to substantial financial burdens on municipalities, which makes it necessary to understand the issue and implement effective risk mitigation strategies.

FREQUENCY AND SEVERITY OF LIGHTNING STRIKES

‣ Florida experiences a unique combination of atmospheric conditions, making it particularly susceptible to lightning activity.

‣ The state’s warm, moist air interacts with cool air masses, which creates an environment conducive to thunderstorms and lightning.

‣ Florida is the lightning capital of the United States, with an average of 20.8 lightning strikes per square mile annually.

‣ Florida consistently ranks high in lightning-related casualties and property damage.

‣ These statistics underscore the urgent need for municipalities to prioritize lightning risk management.

PREVENTATIVE MEASURES FOR MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENTS

Municipalities in Florida can proactively address the challenges posed by lightning strikes through a multifaceted approach.

‣ Investing in lightning detection and warning systems can provide advance notice, which allows residents and businesses to take necessary precautions.

‣ Implementing stringent building codes that mandate lightning protection systems in new construction can significantly reduce property damage.

‣ Education campaigns and community outreach programs can raise awareness about the importance of lightning safety measures and encourage residents to adopt lightning-resistant practices.

‣ Municipal governments can collaborate with meteorological experts to enhance their understanding of local lightning patterns, which enables more targeted and effective risk mitigation strategies.

Municipalities can minimize the frequency and severity of lightningrelated insurance claims by taking these preventative measures, which fosters a safer and more resilient community.

The Florida Municipal Insurance Trust’s Safety Excellence Initiative Resource Library has resources relating to lightning strike mitigation and lightning safety awareness programs. To access the following resources, go to bit.ly/3KrWA5P and log in.

‣ C161 Lightning Damage Reduction and Strike Mitigation Program

‣ E80 Lightning Safety Awareness Course

‣ D175 Guidelines for Providing Proper Surge Protection

More information about the FMIT’s Risk and Safety Management Department and its offerings is available at bit.ly/3X28OcX.

HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR RELATED INJURIES

Large vehicle and equipment operation poses a significant risk of soft tissue and musculoskeletal injuries for operators, particularly for municipal governments.

‣ Operating heavy machinery requires repetitive movements, prolonged sitting and exposure to whole-body vibrations.

‣ All of these contribute to the potential for soft tissue injuries such as strains, sprains and musculoskeletal disorders.

‣ These injuries lead to pain and discomfort for the operators, resulting in increased absenteeism, reduced productivity and elevated workers’ compensation claims.

Proper ergonomic techniques are essential to mitigate the risks associated with large vehicle and equipment operation.

‣ Florida municipal governments must prioritize ergonomic measures to create a safer working environment.

‣ These measures include providing adjustable seating, controls and displays to accommodate different operator sizes, ensuring proper body alignment during operation and incorporating shockabsorbing materials to reduce whole-body vibrations.

‣ Training programs should educate operators on the importance of posture, stretching exercises and regular breaks to prevent overexertion and minimize the risk of soft tissue injuries.

The financial impact of soft tissue injuries on Florida municipal governments is substantial.

‣ Workers’ comp claims resulting from musculoskeletal injuries lead to increased insurance premiums and can strain limited budget resources.

‣ The downtime associated with injured operators hampers overall productivity, which affects municipal services and potentially delays critical projects.

‣ By investing in ergonomic solutions and prioritizing operator safety, municipal governments can reduce the frequency of soft tissue injuries, which saves time and money in the long run.

‣ The upfront investment in ergonomic measures is a proactive strategy to enhance workplace safety, minimize injury-related costs and foster a healthier, more efficient work environment for large vehicle and equipment operators.

The Florida Municipal Insurance Trust’s Safety Excellence Initiative Resource Library has resources that may help reduce injuries to heavy equipment operators. To access the following resources, go to bit.ly/3KrWA5P and log in.

‣ C31 Physical Demands Analysis

‣ C28 Ergonomic Assessment Program

More information about the FMIT’s Risk and Safety Management Department and its offerings is available at bit.ly/3X28OcX.

21 AUTOMOBILE COLLISIONS

AUTOMOBILE COLLISIONS

Municipal governments own a significant fleet of automobiles to facilitate public services such as law enforcement, public works and emergency response. However, the operation of these vehicles comes with inherent risks, including accidents, collisions, property damage and injuries. Implementing robust safety measures and protocols to minimize or prevent auto insurance claims is critical in managing these risks.

‣ Municipalities can begin by investing in comprehensive driver training programs for government-owned vehicle employees.

‣ This training should emphasize defensive driving techniques, awareness of local traffic laws and the importance of maintaining a safe driving record.

Implementing routine vehicle maintenance programs is essential to ensure that government-owned automobiles are in optimal condition.

‣ Regular inspections and timely repairs can address potential mechanical issues contributing to accidents or collisions.

‣ Municipalities can explore the use of advanced safety technologies, such as collision avoidance systems and telematics, to monitor and enhance driving behaviors.

‣ These technologies provide real-time feedback to drivers, which encourages safer practices and reduces the likelihood of accidents.

By prioritizing preventive measures, municipalities can improve the safety of their fleets and reduce the frequency and severity of auto insurance claims, ultimately leading to cost savings and better resource allocation.

Municipalities should establish clear and efficient reporting procedures in the event of an accident.

‣ Prompt and accurate reporting allows for timely investigation and resolution, helping to mitigate potential legal and financial consequences.

‣ Fostering a culture of accountability and transparency in municipal departments can encourage employees to take responsibility for their actions on the road.

‣ This cultural shift, coupled with ongoing training and awareness programs, contributes to an overall reduction in accidents and insurance claims.

Ultimately, a proactive approach to safety and risk management can help municipal governments safeguard their assets, protect their employees and maintain the efficiency of public services.

The Florida Municipal Insurance Trust’s Safety Excellence Initiative Resource Library has resources relating to fleet safety and distracted driving that may help to reduce auto collision-related injuries and claims. To access the following resources, go to bit.ly/3KrWA5P and log in.

‣ E46 Fleet Safety Management Course

‣ E126 Distracted Driving Seminar

More information about the FMIT’s Risk and Safety Management Department and its offerings is available at bit.ly/3X28OcX.

HURRICANE/STORM PREPARATION AND CLEANUP

Being a municipality in a hurricane-prone region means meticulous preparation to be safe from the devastating impacts of tropical storms and hurricanes.

‣ First and foremost, municipalities must prioritize the safety of their employees, law enforcement and first responders.

‣ Provide comprehensive training programs that ensure these essential personnel are well-versed in evacuation procedures, emergency response protocols and the operation of specialized equipment.

‣ Establish adequate communication systems to facilitate realtime updates and coordination during the storm.

‣ It’s crucial to prioritize municipal employees’ mental health and well-being, as the stress of disaster response can be overwhelming.

Efficient and organized post-storm cleanup is imperative to restore normalcy swiftly in the aftermath of a hurricane.

‣ Develop clear and concise cleanup plans, outline the responsibilities of each department and establish a chain of command.

‣ Emphasize the importance of personal protective equipment (PPE) for cleanup crews, considering the potential hazards such as debris, contaminated water and structural damage.

‣ Secure properties to minimize insurance claims. Municipalities should implement temporary repairs, such as boarding windows and securing loose objects well before a hurricane’s landfall.

‣ Collaborate with insurance providers to conduct pre-storm assessments, identify vulnerable areas and mitigate potential risks, which ultimately reduces the financial burden on municipalities and residents.

Hurricane preparation and post-storm cleanup in Florida municipalities require a multifaceted approach, prioritizing safety, effective communication and strategic planning. By investing in

comprehensive training, maintaining open lines of communication and implementing proactive measures to secure properties, municipalities can minimize the impact of hurricanes on their communities and enhance their resilience in the face of these natural disasters.

The Florida Municipal Insurance Trust’s Safety Excellence Initiative Resource Library has resources that will help you prepare for and clean up after a weather disaster. To access the following resources, go to bit.ly/3KrWA5P and log in.

‣ E68 Storm Preparation and Response Safety Awareness Course

‣ D139 Storm Response

‣ C209 Hurricane Preparedness Self-Assessment Tool

The SEI Resource Library is a vast database of safety programs, policies and procedures specifically designed for Florida’s municipal governments. Most programs in the library can be edited to fit your specific needs. A login ID and password are required to access the Resource Library. If needed, contact your dedicated FMIT Risk and Safety Consultant to arrange access.

More information about the FMIT’s Risk and Safety Management Department and its offerings is available at bit.ly/3X28OcX.

IT INFRASTRUCTURE – DATA BREACHES/ THEFT

–DATA BREACHES/THEFT

In recent years, the public sector has witnessed an alarming rise in data breaches, particularly in the theft of residents’ personal information. These incidents underscore the vulnerabilities in information technology (IT) infrastructure and highlight the critical need for enhanced security measures. With its large population and diverse demographics, Florida faces unique challenges in protecting sensitive data, which means a comprehensive approach to fortifying IT systems is necessary.

The theft of personal information poses severe risks, including identity theft, financial fraud and compromised privacy.

‣ In response to this growing threat, investing in advanced cybersecurity technologies and regularly updating IT infrastructure becomes imperative.

‣ Implementing robust encryption methods, multifactor authentication and continuous monitoring of network activities are crucial to safeguarding sensitive data.

‣ Fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness and providing regular training for government employees can contribute to a more resilient defense against cyberthreats.

Collaboration between government entities, private organizations and cybersecurity experts is vital to reduce the possibility of data breaches in the public sector.

‣ Establishing stringent data protection regulations, conducting regular security audits and incentivizing organizations to adhere to best practices can create a more secure IT environment.

‣ Fostering partnerships with cybersecurity firms to perform penetration testing and vulnerability assessments can proactively identify and address potential weaknesses.

‣ Ultimately, a holistic approach that combines technological advancements, regulatory frameworks and collaborative efforts is essential to fortify IT infrastructure and protect residents’ personal information from malicious actors.

Note: You can add Cyber Liability coverage to your Florida Municipal Insurance Trust program when you purchase General Liability coverage. Speak to your dedicated Account Executive regarding coverage and limitations.

These resources may help you to fortify your IT system:

The Local Government Cyber Security Resource Packet (FL Digital Service) bit.ly/3x6ueLm

Guide to Ransomware Prevention (Cyber Florida) bit.ly/3yLS1km Cybersecurity for Local Government (Cyber Florida) bit.ly/3VvoMLq

The Five Phishing Tactics Used in Ransomware (GovTech.com) bit.ly/3yM4mVz

More information about the FMIT’s Risk and Safety Management Department and its offerings is available at bit.ly/3X28OcX

PLAYGROUND APPARATUS CLAIMS

Public parks equipped with playground equipment play a crucial role in fostering community engagement and promoting outdoor activities for residents. However, these recreational spaces can become potential sources of liability claims for municipalities if not adequately maintained and inspected. There has been a growing awareness of the need to address safety concerns related to playground equipment.

Liability claims arising from injuries sustained on playgrounds often involve:

‣ Defective equipment

‣ Lack of proper signage

‣ Inadequate maintenance

Florida municipalities can proactively mitigate playground apparatus liability claims by implementing comprehensive inspection and maintenance protocols.

‣ Regular inspections by trained personnel can help identify potential hazards and ensure that equipment meets safety standards.

‣ Municipalities should establish a routine maintenance schedule to address wear and tear promptly.

‣ Routine maintenance involves repairing or replacing damaged components, addressing issues with surfacing materials and ensuring compliance with industry safety guidelines.

Municipalities can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and subsequent liability claims by investing in preventative measures.

‣ Fostering a community engagement and education culture is vital in preventing playground injuries and liability claims.

‣ Florida municipalities can collaborate with local communities to raise awareness about proper playground usage and encourage supervision and prompt reporting of safety concerns.

‣ Implementing educational programs can empower residents with the knowledge needed to recognize potential hazards and

report them promptly, contributing to the overall safety of public playgrounds.

Prioritizing regular inspections, establishing maintenance protocols and fostering community engagement are essential steps for municipalities to proactively address playground apparatus liability claims and ensure the safety of public park visitors.

The Florida Municipal Insurance Trust’s Safety Excellence Initiative Resource Library has resources that will help you manage your playground safety program. To access the following resources, go to bit.ly/3KrWA5P and log in.

‣ E92 Playground Safety Awareness Course

‣ E93 Public Playground Safety Handbook

‣ C91 Playground Safety Management Plan Program

‣ C92 Playground Inspection Form

More information about the FMIT’s Risk and Safety Management Department and its offerings is available at bit.ly/3X28OcX.

HEAT ILLNESS AND INJURY PREVENTION

Heat illness and injuries pose significant challenges for municipal employees in Florida, given the state’s hot and humid climate. According to workers’ compensation claims statistics from the state Division of Workers’ Compensation, there has been a concerning rise in the number of claims related to heat-related injuries among municipal workers.

‣ Outdoor employees engaged in landscaping, construction and public works are particularly vulnerable to heat stress, dehydration and heat stroke.

‣ These conditions impact workers’ health and well-being and result in increased workers’ comp costs for municipalities.

Comprehensive safety measures and training programs are essential to address and reduce the incidence of heat illness and injuries among municipal employees.

‣ Municipalities should prioritize the implementation of heat safety protocols, including regular breaks in shaded areas, hydration programs and acclimatization strategies for workers new to hot environments.

‣ Training programs should educate employees on recognizing the signs of heat-related illnesses and promptly reporting symptoms.

‣ Municipalities should invest in proper personal protective equipment (PPE), such as lightweight and breathable clothing, to help mitigate heat exposure risks.

‣ Regular monitoring of weather conditions and adjustments to work schedules to avoid peak temperatures can further contribute to a safer working environment.

The statistics on workers’ compensation claims for heat-related injuries among municipal employees in Florida underscore the urgent need for proactive measures.

‣ Municipalities can significantly reduce and potentially eliminate heat illness and injuries by prioritizing safety through comprehensive training and implementing effective protocols.

‣ These protocols ensure workers’ well-being and contribute to a more efficient and resilient workforce for municipal operations in the challenging climate of Florida.

The Florida Municipal Insurance Trust’s Safety Excellence Initiative Resource Library has resources that focus on heat illness and injury prevention. To access the following resources, go to bit.ly/3KrWA5P and log in.

‣ E60 Heat Stress Prevention Awareness Course

‣ C65 Heat Stress Prevention Program

‣ E62 Heat Stress Prevention Quiz

More information about the FMIT’s Risk and Safety Management Department and its offerings is available at bit.ly/3X28OcX.

SAFETY EXCELLENCE INITIATIVE

The Florida Municipal Safety Excellence Initiative is a voluntary safety accreditation program available to FMIT members. Its goal is to provide each participating organization with the knowledge and tools needed to easily develop and implement an effective safety management system. A well-implemented safety management system will lead to a reduction in losses, injuries and illnesses.

For members that do not have existing safety management systems, the Florida Municipal Safety Excellence Initiative provides a step-by-step accreditation action plan. This includes all the written resources needed to successfully develop and implement organization-specific health and safety management systems that meet established standards.

For members that have existing safety management systems, the Safety Initiative provides a benchmark for members to compare industry best practices. The selfevaluation and eventual Safety Improvement Assessment can be used to pinpoint areas that require additional attention and allow for continual improvement.

Once accredited, members will be eligible for benefits including:

‣ A Certificate of Safety Excellence (CSE)

‣ Peer recognition

‣ Access to the Safety Leadership Certificate program

There are a wealth of resources to assist you every step of the way, including:

‣ Self-evaluation checklists for each accreditation path. An online resource library featuring written programs, safe work practices, and specialized training programs. Access Library