Following recent prosecutions by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), local businesses are being urged to check their Employer’s Liability and other insurance arrangements.

According to the HSE, this year has already seen a Walsall metal forming company prosecuted after a teenage worker lost parts of two fingers on his first day at work and a Bradford takeaway owner was fined for failing to insure his staff against work-related injuries and illnesses.

Whilst most types of business insurance are not compulsory, but advisable, there are a few, required by law, such as Employers’ Liability Insurance and Vehicle Insurance.

A spokesperson for local insurance broker, Coversure Insurance Services said “Unfortunately, one thing many new business owners don’t realise about Employers’ Liability Insurance is that you need to have it in place even if you don’t directly employ staff. For example, even if you only use agency staff and subcontractors, you still need to have it in place to cover them. If you fail to do so, you could be placing yourself at risk of being prosecuted by the HSE.”

Fortunately, many insurance companies will combine important standard insurance covers including Employers’ Liability into simple packages such as Office Insurance and Retail Insurance, often saving you time and money.

You can buy insurance from a multitude of providers including insurance brokers. Your local insurance broker would assess your business’s needs, advise on which types of insurance you should consider taking out and source competitive premiums from a range of insurers.

Furthermore, in many cases and should you need to, your insurance broker will also assist with your claim. The level of service you receive will depend upon the insurance policy you took out. Some policies include more help with regards to claims management than others, although often you have to pay a premium for this.

Although arranging insurance for your business looks difficult, it doesn’t have to be. If you have any concerns about your insurance requirements, contact your local insurance broker, who would be more than happy to help and many will even provide you with free and impartial advice.

For more information, Ask Coversure on 0800 3081300 or pop in to their office on Beatrice Street, Oswestry