The mining and resources sector is perhaps the ultimate example of risk vs reward in action. With the industry generating billions of dollars for the Australian economy each year, it’s perhaps little wonder that mining insurance claims can run into the tens of millions of dollars. That’s why you should only work with experienced mining insurance brokers if you work in this industry in any capacity. It’s too much of a risk to do anything else.
The mining and resources sector can swiftly grow or contract. It’s very common for mining businesses to hire independent contractors when the need arises, rather than taking on actual employees. This is good for the mine owners, who save on workers compensation costs, and other benefits enjoyed by employees. The contractors, meanwhile, can command handsome wages for the expertise they bring to operations.
But insurance arrangements for those working as a contractor or sub-contractors can be complicated and it’s not worth taking anything to chance. You will be required to have public liability insurance to protect you in the event that anything you do causes damage or injury to property or third parties.
Standard employees are normally protected under their employer’s public liability insurance policies. This isn’t the case for contractors and sub-contractors, who can find themselves financially crippled if they’re not properly covered in the event of a claim against them.
Negotiating the insurance minefield
There’s no real secret formula to making sure you have the right insurance cover in place to work in the mining and resources sector: you just need to be working with the right insurance broker.
At Emjay Insurance Brokers, we have extensive experience in offering guidance, risk management advice and insurance solutions to all facets of the mining sector. You can read more about our level of services here.
Specialist knowledge is a must in this area of insurance. Policies in the mining insurance sector can be extremely complex, with numerous limitations, indemnities and exclusions applicable. Marrying the requirements of the mine operator and the contractor is not often straightforward.
We have extensive contacts and access to tailored policies to ensure individuals are able to meet their contractual requirements, while being adequately covered for public liability. So whether you’re contracted for your expertise in environmental engineering, quarrying, security, mechanics, drilling or excavation, Emjay can arrange tailored insurance cover that you can rely on in the event of a claim.
And in the high-risk, high cost sphere of mining insurance, that should be a high priority for every contractor or sub-contractor. Contact us today for guidance and advice on 02 9796 0400.
