Preparing for Loss of Essential Services

HSB Canada
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Supporting our Subscribers in reducing risk and minimizing loss is key to our mission of building a safer healthcare system. A large part of this effort is collaborating with other insurers to offer Subscribers the most comprehensive and tailored coverage available. Ensuring you and your teams have the right coverage and information for decision-making is a top priority.

The following article is provided by our partners at HSB Canada. Together, we aim to educate HIROC Subscribers on proactive measures and contingency planning to minimize the operational and financial impacts of unexpected service disruptions.

For any questions or comments, please reach out to us at [email protected].

 


 

In today’s fast-paced world, unexpected service losses such as power outages or equipment failures can strike anytime, disrupting operations and impacting productivity.

Proactive planning safeguards your operations, minimizing the impact of sudden disruptions.

Now is the time to review and reinforce your contingency plans. That's why we sat down with HSB's Curtis Adumattah, Business Development Representative, to learn more about what critical measures your organization should include in emergency planning and personnel training in the video below.

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Loss of Electric Power

A power outage can halt machinery. Depending on the time of year and climate, it raises the possibility of freeze losses, spoilage of perishables due to inadequate refrigeration, and severe damage to piping through freezing.

If power loss poses a major threat to your facility, especially if you know when a power loss is likely to occur, effective preparations can be made to mitigate damage.

Prepare Generators

  • Perform pre-operational checks and test them by starting. If possible, run them under load.
  • Ensure operations personnel are trained for a safe transition to onsite power generation if backup generators are to be used successfully. 
  • Develop a written protocol covering all potential power loss scenarios.

Top Off Fuel Tanks 

  • Aged fuel often leads to generator start-up failures and load issues. If an engine-generator set is supplied by fuel stored on-site, ensure the fuel is fresh.
  • Never use fuel stored for over 12 months. Fuel quality can degrade and develop algae, which can quickly plug fuel strainers and filters, stopping the engine. This is just as true for diesel as for any other liquid fuel. An alternative is to treat the stored fuel with an additive containing biocides.

Anticipate Power Surges

Power interruptions are frequently accompanied by voltage surges, making surge protection essential for sensitive circuits, especially those serving electrical power supplies associated with computers and automation controls. If your equipment lacks adequate surge protection, consider shutting it down during expected outages. For a more permanent solution, consult your electrical engineer or contractor about installing power-quality hardware and a proper grounding system. 

Flooding

We all know that flooding can occur as a result of weather phenomena. However, it can also occur as a result of power interruption or machinery failure which interferes with continuous dewatering (pumping) necessary in some types of property located at or below the local water table. It can also occur as a result of frozen pipes bursting.

 

HIROC is here for our Subscribers. If you have questions about coverage, best practices, or would like a quote, please contact HIROC at [email protected].

 


 

About HSB Canada

HSB Canada, part of Munich Re, is a multi-line specialty insurer and provider of inspection, risk management and IoT technology services. HSB Canada’s insurance offerings include equipment breakdown, cyber risk and other coverages. HSB blends its engineering expertise, technology and data to craft inventive insurance and service solutions for existing and emerging risks posed by technological change. Throughout its 150-year history HSB’s mission has been to help clients prevent loss, advance sustainable use of energy and build deeper relationships that benefit business, public institutions and consumers. HSB holds A.M. Best Company’s highest financial rating, A++ (Superior).

These recommendations are general guidelines and are not intended to be exhaustive or complete, nor are they designed to replace information or instructions from the manufacturer of your equipment. This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to convey or constitute legal advice. HSB makes no warranties or representations as to the accuracy or completeness of the content herein. Under no circumstances shall HSB or any party involved in creating or delivering this article be liable to you for any loss or damage that results from the use of the information contained herein. This article does not modify or invalidate any of the provisions, exclusions, terms or conditions of the applicable policy and endorsements. For specific terms and conditions, please refer to the applicable insurance form.