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March 2014 | Construction Equipment Distribution | www.cedmag.com | 17 Play It Safe you'll also protect the integrity of your business. This document is made available by Sentry Insurance a Mutual Company and its subsidiaries and affiliates (collectively "SIAM- CO") with the understanding that SIAMCO is not engaged in the practice of law, nor is it rendering legal advice. The information contained in this document is of a general nature and is not in- tended to address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity, nor the best practices applicable to any particular indi- vidual or entity. Legal obligations may vary by state and locality, and best practices are unique to specific items and situations. No one should act on the information contained in this document without advice from a local professional with relevant expertise. contractor meets your safety expec- tations. Also, you should consider the following practices: Require a contract or agreement that clearly denotes the nature and scope of the work being performed. Be sure your contract or agreement includes an unambiguous indemnifi- cation and hold harmless clause, as well as requirements for liability and workers' compensation insurance. Your contractor and any subcon- tractors should be required to carry a full line of insurance coverage, including general liability and workers' compensation. Certificates of insurance with specified levels of coverage should be required. Secure the original certificate of insurance and make sure the coverage is up to date and maintained year to year. If you allow a contractor or sub to begin work without verifying their insurance documentation, you are at immediate risk for assuming liability as their employer. Prior to the start of a new job, conduct a meeting with all contractor representatives to discuss contract requirements for safety and health and information about onsite hazards or hazards created by the contractor's operations. Limit your employees' access or exposure to contractor work areas. If an unsafe act or condition is noted in an area or by an activity created or controlled by the contractor, report it in writing to the designated contrac- tor representative. Develop a written contractor safety policy that addresses your guidelines. Working with independent contractors is a regular part of busi- ness for many dealerships. Know the risks associated with hiring indepen- dent contractors. You'll not only help keep your insurance costs down, but ERIC STILES is Sentry's lead account executive responsible for main- taining the AED/Sentry relationship. He can be reached at eric.stiles@ sentry.com. As the endorsed P&C carrier for AED, Sentry Insurance offers superior coverage options and services to meet your dealership needs. s $EDICATED AND 1UICK#HANGE "UCKETS FOR #OMPACT %XCAVATORS "ACKHOES 7HEEL ,OADERS AND ,ARGE %XCAVATORS s -ECHANICAL (YDRAULIC #OUPLERS s -ATERIAL #LAMPS 'RAPPLES s 3KID 3TEER !TTACHMENTS s )NDUSTRIAL "OX 3CRAPERS one Scoop at a Time Ground Engaging woodsequipment.com 800-848-3447