Planning school-sponsored functions is no easy feat. From fundraisers to carnivals to award ceremonies, special events have many items to coordinate. The checklist can include food, activities, volunteers, venue, performances—it goes on and on. But when making a list, check it twice: are insurance and risk management on there?

In honor of Star Wars Day, I thought it would be fun to write a blog about various aspects of the Star Wars universe and how risk management tactics would apply.

A long time ago, in a galaxy not so far away, OSHA began implementing rules to protect employees. One of them was with regards to personal protective equipment (PPE), which is designed to protect workers from serious workplace injuries or illnesses. Did anyone else think of PPE when Finn advised Rey in The Force Awakens that a Stormtrooper’s mask would filter out smoke but not toxins? Even the Empire had safety in mind when designing a Stormtrooper’s uniform!

Today we’re sharing insight from guest blogger Kinetic IT, an Information Technology Managed Service Provider based in South Bend, IN. We hope you enjoy Kinetic’s insight and wisdom!

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) accounted for 32% of all worker injury and illness cases in 2014. And OSHA cites work-related MSDs as one of the most frequently reported causes of lost or restricted work time.

The reliance on data in our technologically-driven world comes with innumerable benefits for today’s nonprofits – significantly increasing speed and productivity, as well as improving communication and convenience. However, with these advantages come a series of risks.

They hover over football games and marching band performances. Media classes use them as part a school television show or other productions. The maintenance department could use them to inspect buildings and grounds. Drones have even become part of the curriculum.

OSHA has issued a final rule to protect workers from exposure to respirable crystalline silica. It is comprised of one standard for Construction and one for General Industry and Maritime. 

As technology and big data continue to change the way we conduct business, it is critical to better understand how these technological advances impact your organization’s risk profile.

Data breaches are no longer a “what if” phenomena. They are a real threat for organizations of all sizes and industries. The size of your business doesn’t matter nearly as much as the nature of its activities.

At work, do you know how you’d escape in case of emergency? What about when you’re staying at a hotel – do you take time to identify the nearest exits? Or when you arrive at a crowed event?

It doesn’t matter whether you’re a safety supervisor, event planner, facilities manager, company executive, restaurant manager, or just an individual entering a building – clear exits are critical.

The change of seasons brings increased chance of severe weather. The temperatures can rapidly change from cold to hot, and sunny to storms. This unpredictability increases the risk of injury, death, and damage from severe weather. In order for your organization to be ready, you need to think ahead and get prepared for thunderstorms and flooding.