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  • Vehicle Crashes at Work Sites Jump to 44%

    Vehicle Crashes at Work Sites Jump to 44%

    Work zones are always a dangerous place. However, in a recent study conducted by the Associate General Contractors of America, the danger seems to be rising as they report that in 2016, 44% of roadway contractors have had vehicles crash in their work sites.

    The survey, which was presented to more than 700 contractors across the United States, also showed that within those crashes, 49% of the time people, either working at the construction site or driving the vehicle, reported injuries. And, 13% of those injuries resulted in fatalities.

    Regarding only the construction workers, 25% of crashes injure worksite staff and 11% kill workers.

    These numbers are scary. Especially because the AGCA says that “82% of surveyed contractors reported that vehicle crashes pose a greater risk now than they did just 10 years ago.”

    Protecting everyone at a work site has to be a top priority. Making sure all safety regulations are instated is a start, but education is key as well.

    “There is no meeting, email or text that is more important than the safety of workers or motorists,” said Stephen Sandherr, the association’s CEO. “It is absolutely essential for every driver to slow down, pay attention and put the phone down while driving through highway work zones.”

  • OSHA Delays Electronic Reporting Deadline

    OSHA Delays Electronic Reporting Deadline

    OSHA, or the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, has certain rules and requirements for individuals and organizations. However, it also has requirements for itself.

    One of the most recent requirements OSHA set forth for itself was the electronic reporting rule. This rule requires certain organizations to report information electronically from their OSHA Forms 300, 300A and 301. Additionally, under the rule, OSHA must create a secure website where this required information will be submitted.

    The original deadline to have the website running and having the electronic reporting rule in effect was July 1st, 2017. However, OSHA will NOT have its website ready to receive electronic reports from employers by the deadline.

    No new reporting deadline has been put out by OSHA yet and they have NOT officially delayed the July 1st deadline, even though the website will not be ready in time.

    Establishments that could be affected should continue to record and report their workplace injuries as required by law and keep updated on these new reporting regulations and developments. Especially in the case that a new deadline should be adopted.

    Lawley Construction will stay abreast of these changes and will alert our clients as soon as a new deadline, if any, is released.

  • Lawley Expands Employee Benefits Presence Across New York Through Partnership with MAC Creative Plan Solutions

    Lawley Expands Employee Benefits Presence Across New York Through Partnership with MAC Creative Plan Solutions

    Regional commercial insurance, personal insurance, employee benefits and risk management broker adds dedicated employee benefits team of five to service tri-state region companies

    Mahopac, N.Y. (June  15th, 2017) – Lawley, one of the largest independent insurance brokers in the United States according to Business Insurance, expanded its presence in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut with the partnership of employee benefits broker MAC Creative Plan Solutions, located in Mahopac, NY. The new relationship, which became effective June 1, will create Lawley’s tenth branch across the tri-state area and will formally operate under the Lawley brand.

    MAC Creative Plan Solutions, which was founded in 2001, specializes in employee benefits and custom employee communications. In addition to this new Mahopac, NY branch, Lawley has offices in Darien, CT, Florham Park, NJ, Purchase, NY and Melville, NY, circling the New York City market.

    “We are excited to grow our business around the New York City market by partnering with the experienced team from MAC Creative Plan Solutions,” said TJ Revelas, employee benefits managing partner of Lawley. “We look forward to extending the many insurance and employee benefits options we offer in the New York, New Jersey and Connecticut markets.”

    “We can now offer our clients a wider range of products and services with the experienced team Lawley has built,” said Marj Ciucci, owner of MAC Creative Plan Solutions. “Our customers now have the support of 375 employees who bring a wide range of specialties.”

    “I am eager to bring our expertise protecting customers across Putnam County to the growing Lawley insurance team. Partnering with a Top 100 Agency and having access to all of the resources a large, regional broker can bring will help us service our current and future clients better,” said Ciucci. “There is a great opportunity in leveraging the growth of Lawley in the tri-state area and now being able to offer more products and services in our region.”

    About Lawley
    Lawley is a privately-owned, independent regional insurance firm specializing in property, casualty and personal insurance, employee benefits and risk management consulting and ranked among the 100 Largest Insurance Brokers in the U.S., according to Business Insurance magazine.

    For over 60 years, Lawley’s team of more than 350 associates have developed customized property, casualty, surety and benefits insurance programs for businesses and municipalities of all sizes along with personalized protection for individuals and their families. Lawley is recognized as one of the Best Places to Work nationally by Business Insurance and Buffalo Business First.

    Headquartered in Buffalo, NY, Lawley has branch offices across New York in Amherst, Batavia, Fredonia, Mahopac, Melville, Purchase and Rochester along with Darien, Connecticut and Florham Park, New Jersey. To find out more, visit lawleyinsurance.com.

     

  • Lawley Benefits University – Paid Family Leave Documents

    The documents here will help you keep updated on the New York Paid Family Leave Program changes starting January 1, 2018.

    Model Language for Employee Materials

    New York Paid Family Leave Law

    New York Paid Family Leave Premium Rate Information 2024

    Paid Family Leave Claim Form Bonding

    Paid Family Leave Claim Form Family Member

    Paid Family Leave Claim Form Military Deployment

    Paid Family Leave Statement of Rights

    Paid Family Leave Waiver Form

     

  • Spotting Early Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease

    Spotting Early Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease

    Alzheimer’s disease is often difficult to distinguish because the early signs of it closely resemble the natural signs of aging.
    What is Alzheimer’s Disease?
    Alzheimer’s is a disease of the brain that gradually destroys the ability to remember, reason, imagine and learn. The condition progresses over time.

    There are 100 billion nerve cells in the brain. Each of these cells joins with others to form “communication networks.” Alzheimer’s disease prevents some of these cells from operating correctly, although scientists are unsure why. As the damage spreads, the cells cannot function and eventually die.

    During normal aging, most people’s brains develop what are known as plaques (deposits of a protein fragment) and tangles (fibers of another protein). It has been discovered during autopsy that people suffering from Alzheimer’s have a lot more plaques and tangles than others. Scientists believe that these may play a role in blocking nerve cell communication.
    Risk Factors
    Some risk factors for Alzheimer’s include:

    • Increasing age
    • Family history and genetics
    • Being of African-American or Latino descent
    • Serious head injury

    Symptoms
    The Alzheimer’s Association identifies 10 warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease to watch for:

    • Memory loss that disrupts daily life
    • Challenges in solving problems
    • Difficulty completing familiar tasks
    • Confusion with time or place
    • Trouble understanding visual images or spatial relationships
    • Trouble speaking or writing
    • Misplacing things
    • Decreased or poor judgment
    • Withdrawal from work or social activities
    • Changes in mood or personality

    Diagnosis and Treatment
    The first step is to take the person you are concerned about to a physician. There is no specific type of doctor for this disease, but in some cases you may be referred to a specialist such as a neurologist or psychologist. Your local Alzheimer’s Association chapter can assist you in locating the proper physician.

    At the doctor’s office, the patient will undergo a physical exam, diagnostic testing and a neurological exam. If diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, the patient will likely be prescribed a cholinesterase inhibitor and/or meantime. Taking vitamin E may also be recommended.
    Prevention
    Research shows that keeping the brain healthy may help prevent Alzheimer’s. Take the following steps:

    • Eat a healthy diet
    • Stay socially active
    • Avoid tobacco and excessive alcohol
    • Exercise
    • Stimulate the brain with activities such as logic or word puzzles

    Support
    Alzheimer’s disease is devastating for both the patient and his or her loved ones. It can be especially difficult for the primary caretaker, so it is important to have a network of family and friends to lend a hand.

  • 4th of July Fireworks Safety – Staying Safe While Celebrating Independence Day 2017

    4th of July Fireworks Safety – Staying Safe While Celebrating Independence Day 2017

    In preparation for the 4th of July and all its celebrations, it is important to be safe when using fireworks. Even mild fireworks such as sparklers can get hot enough to burn through clothing. To prevent burn injuries, exercise extreme caution when lighting and holding fireworks, and monitor your children closely while celebrating. Sparkler fireworks are especially fun for children. Once children are old enough, allow them to hold a sparkler under your guidance. Those who are younger than 12 years old should not hold sparklers and should remain spectators only.

    4th of July Firework Safety Recommendations:

    • Read and follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions and warnings.
    • Do not try to make your own fireworks; use only those that are commercially manufactured.
    • Only light fireworks outside in an open space.
    • Obey local ordinances regarding private fireworks usage.
    • Have a bucket of water handy in case of emergencies.
    • If a firework does not go off, do not try to relight it. Instead, wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
    • Never light a firework in a glass or metal container.
    • Do not drink alcohol while lighting fireworks—they can pose burning hazards if you are not careful.

    4th of July Protection for Your Pets:

    Like thunderstorms or the vacuum cleaner, fireworks may frighten your family pets. To protect your pets from becoming stressed as a result of loud noises from fireworks try the following tips.

    • Keep pets indoors away from loud noises in a place that is comfortable to them.
    • Allow pets to go to the bathroom before beginning your fireworks show to prevent accidents.
  • Encouraging Men to Take Steps Towards Better Health with Men’s Health Month in June

    Encouraging Men to Take Steps Towards Better Health with Men’s Health Month in June

    The purpose of Men’s Health Month is to heighten the awareness of preventable health problems and encourage early detection and treatment of disease among men and boys. Preventive care, including regular doctor visits, is important for everyone. There are certain tests and screenings that are appropriate for both men and women at various life stages, and some that are specific to men and their needs. Consider incorporating these screenings, tests and exams into your life to promote good health and prevent the onset of preventable conditions.

    • Body Measurement – Men over the age of age 20 should have their body measurement taken every two years. The measurements can revel if someone is obese or overweight.
    • Blood Pressure – Men should have their blood pressure taken at least every two years to detect early signs of hypertension (high blood pressure).
    • Cholesterol Screening – Men should have a cholesterol test every five years after the age of 20. High levels of cholesterol raise the risk of heart attack and stroke.
    • Fasting Blood Sugar – Men should have a blood sugar test every three years after the age of 45 to measure a risk for diabetes.
    • Colorectal Cancer Screening – Men should have a colorectal screening to detect cancerous cells and growths in the inside wall of the colon after the age of 50.
    • Prostate Cancer Screening – Men over the age of 50 should have a yearly digital rectal exam and prostate screening test.
    • Testicular Cancer – All teenage males and adult men should have a testicular exam every time they visit the doctor for a physical exam.

    Celebrate Wear Blue Day, on Friday, June 16 by wearing something blue to raise awareness of making healthy lifestyle choices, scheduling regular annual visits to the doctor, getting educated on heart disease or diabetes, starting general health conversations with their male friends, and overall well-being.  Have some fun in the workplace and encourage employees to take photos showing off their blue and use the hashtag #ShowUsYourBlue, and post to your company intranet or social media page.

  • Memorial Day Means Dangerous Distracted Driving

    Memorial Day Means Dangerous Distracted Driving

    This holiday weekend, make sure to pay attention to the road, maybe even more than you usually do while driving. Memorial Day weekend means more people are on the road. In fact, numbers of drivers may reach 34.6 million over the holiday (Michelin for National Tire Safety Week survey).

    With more drivers on the road feeling more confident in the summer months, it all adds up to more car accidents happening during the warm weather.

    The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety reports that most (60%) accidents occur due to distracted driving while at the wheel. In order to stay ahead of the trend and increase your safety on the road, here are some easy tips to help with distracted driving:

    1. Wear Your Seat Belt – Every passenger in your car should be buckled up. In the event of an accident, this can help cut down on injuries and keep everyone safe
    2. Extra Travel Time – If you are driving in unfamiliar territory, you should allow extra time so you can stop and look at a map, program electronic navigation, and go around any detours
    3. Avoid Distracted Driving Altogether – Texting, eating, adjusting the radio channel; all of these are distractions and should be avoided if you are behind the wheel. Always try to go hands free or have a passenger help you with any task you need to do while in the car
    4. Road Side Assistance – Always have a plan in place for roadside assistance. Doing this gives you ease of mind and helps you in the case of an accident
    5. Update Your Proof of Insurance – Having proof of up-to-date insurance coverage is very important in the event you do get into an accident or get stuck in a traffic stop. Also, different states will have different traffic laws, so be aware of those as well

    Stay safe and enjoy the holiday weekend!

  • Get Fit with the Fam: Family Physical Fitness is a Driver of Health!

    Get Fit with the Fam: Family Physical Fitness is a Driver of Health!

    We’ve waited all winter to get outside so take this opportunity to enjoy the May flowers and get moving outside during physical fitness and sports month.  Take advantage of all the free outdoor classes at your local parks—most health insurance companies sponsor free classes almost daily—and many are family-friendly!

    May is also a great time to get outside and visit a local or close-by park or trail, such as Allegany State Park, Letchworth State Park, or the Niagara Falls Gorge.  While it isn’t too hot and humid out yet, getting in a hike or walk with family and friends is a free and fun activity.  Pack some snacks or a lunch and have a picnic while you enjoy the scenic views and nature.

    Being active as a family increases opportunities for kids and families to be physically active. Here are some activities you and your family can consider to get started on a path to a healthier lifestyle.

    • Give children toys that encourage physical activity, such as balls, kites and jump ropes.
    • Encourage children to join a sports team or try a new physical activity.
    • Take the stairs instead of the elevator.
    • Facilitate a safe walk to and from school several times a week.
    • Walk around the block after a meal.
    • Find time to spend together doing a fun activity, like family bike day or swim day.
    • Make a new house rule: No sitting still during television commercials.
    • Issue a family challenge to commit to physical activity five days a week for six weeks.
  • When And Why You Should Be Looking At High Blood Pressure

    When And Why You Should Be Looking At High Blood Pressure

    Screenings for heart-disease risk factors are also essential, and recent research suggests there’s widespread misunderstanding about when to begin these tests. In a survey of women, the majority said they believed that heart-health screenings should begin at age 41. That’s more than two decades too late! For both women and men, blood pressure and cholesterol screenings should begin at age 20, according to the American Heart Association (AHA). These tests are especially important because dangerous blood pressure and cholesterol levels often have no symptoms. You might feel invincible in your 20s and 30s, but don’t neglect these and other important screenings. See below for the latest recommendations from the AHA, and schedule an appointment with your doctor if you’re overdue.

    • Blood pressure: Starting at age 20, have your blood pressure checked at least once every two years or at each regular checkup.
    • Fasting lipid (cholesterol) profile: Starting at age 20, get your HDL, LDL and triglyceride levels checked every four to six years, more often if you have either a family history of heart disease and stroke, or a personal history of diabetes, hypertension or obesity.
    • Weight/body mass index: Starting at age 20, you should discuss your weight and body-mass index with your physician at your annual visit.
    • Waist circumference: Starting at age 20 if you have a BMI of 25 kg/m2 or higher; repeat as needed.
    • Blood glucose: Starting at age 45, have your blood glucose checked at least every three years.