Alternative Energy, Opportunity is Abound Throughout North America

Nina ConnerEnergy

Posted by W. Bruce Murray, Jr., AssuredPartners Across the United States, the Inflation Reduction Act has enabled growth in solar, wind, battery energy storage systems (BESS), renewable natural gas (RNG), biofuel, and hydrogen, which includes the fuel cell industry. Large cities are discovering anaerobic digestion to address municipal waste issues and using the methane off-take and hydrogen for greater profitability. Whether your company is a utility or developer building a portfolio of “green” assets such as hydro power, wind, solar, and BESS, assets are being combined for efficiency. Nuclear energy could be on a rebound with “pink hydrogen” off-take. Clean coal and the generation of “blue hydrogen” could make West Virginia a hub of prosperity in time. Old ammonia plants …

Best Practices for an Effective Construction Risk Management Program

Nina ConnerConstruction

Posted by Gary Semmer, AssuredPartners The construction industry continues to face material price increases, supply chain interruptions and delays, and labor shortages that affect scheduling and profitability and cause job-site delays – all of which are described as the “new” norm.   We recognize that you have little if any, control over these factors; however, there are things you can do to control your insurance cost, including:   Safety Program/ OSHA Compliance: Accident prevention is a cornerstone of a solid Risk Management (RM) program. Periodically you should review your safety manual, safety orientation and training, and OSHA compliance to reduce employee injuries, job-site claims, and vehicle accidents. Safety is a top-down priority and needs to be communicated throughout the organization. Share …

Additive Manufacturing

Nina ConnerManufacturing

Posted by Patti Gander, AssuredPartners Additive (3D printing) has transformed the manufacturing industry. Its capabilities have reshaped traditional production methods and are set to bring forth even greater benefits. In this article, we explore how this technology has impacted and continues to shape the landscape of modern manufacturing. Rapid Prototyping: 3D printing allows engineers to rapidly prototype designs. Rapid prototyping will enable engineers to discover potential design issues before finalizing and moving the product from design to production. Inventory Reduction: 3D printing allows manufacturers to produce items on demand. Inventory levels of finished products will not be needed since the product is printed when required. Using on-demand product manufacturing aligns with the “just in time” manufacturing approach to inventory. Customization and Personalization: As …

No Dust – No Combust

Nina ConnerAgribusiness

Posted by Gina Ekstam, AssuredPartners Dust explosions devastate companies with extended downtime, injury, and loss of life. On average, there are 31 dust explosions in the U.S. each year – and this number is on the rise. The agribusiness industry leads our nation with the highest percentage of fires by industry and by material. Combustible dusts are finely divided solids that present flash fire and combustion hazards when oxygen, an ignition source, disbursement, and confinement are all present. The smaller the particle, the easier it is to ignite with flours, grains, hops, and sugars likely candidates for dust hazards. The initial dust explosion normally stirs up accumulated dust creating a whole new fuel source and leading to a secondary explosion …