Contractors' loss prevention tips
By Martha Marton

• Taking a little time to plan how the job will run, timing of deliveries and sub trades can save you money by avoiding delays and the potential problems that result from them. Coordinating the subcontracts will also help to avoid the increased likelihood of mishap present in claustrophobic conditions.

• Your liability exposure can be reduced by a well worded contract. You may consider having an attorney draft a standard contract for you that will address the liability you assume on the job and what is the responsibility of the homeowner, property owner or general contractor.

• Be smart about your tools. Bring to the jobsite only the tools and equipment you need for that day and kept in a locked area at all times when not in use. (Equipment that is kept in your workshop will cost less to insure than equipment that is carried to the job site. Good documentation will help you keep your insurance costs down.)

• A simple colour coding system will help keep small tools from being placed in the wrong toolbox at the end of the day. More expensive tools and equipment should have an identification number inscribed. Keep a schedule of equipment including the serial numbers, type and value of the tools and equipment in a safe place.

• Lock your workspace and storage area at night or while you are busy on the jobsite. An alarm is a good investment, especially if you have high value items.

• Post warning signs limiting public access to the work site and indicating the safety equipment required to gain entry.

• Secure all electrical cords that pass through pedestrian areas to avoid tripping. Clean all spills immediately.

• Contact local utilities to locate underground utilities before any excavation is performed.

• Store all flammable liquids in approved safety containers. Bring only the amount necessary for that day.

• Remove all combustible refuse regularly. Separate oily rags and store in metal containers with tight fitting lids.

• Tightly manage all hot work. Keep combustibles at least 11 metres from the hot work. If this is not possible, use non-combustible shields to protect the combustible material. Check the site 30 minutes after completion for signs of smoldering and follow all permit regulations.

• Have the appropriate size and number of fire extinguishers on hand at all times.

• Obtain certificates of liability from all subcontractors to ensure they are maintaining adequate liability coverage. If you use the same subcontractor frequently, ask for a new certificate at least annually. A new certificate for each job is ideal.

• Once equipment is installed on the jobsite, inspect and test it to be sure that it is working properly.

• Have your customer's signoff that they are satisfied with the job once completed. If the job is a large one, you may want to have several signoff points.

• Ensure that the project complies with all applicable codes and standards.

• Maintain records of all jobs including plans, contracts, agreements, testing documents and approvals.

For more information on how to protect your business, contact Martha Marton at Tupling Insurance Brokers Limited. Direct Line 705 458 8111 marthamarton@- tuplinginsurance.com

Tupling Insurance Brokers, 1070 Innisfil Beach Rd., Innisfil, ON L9S 4T9 705.431.5585