JODI MATHY
Post Loss Specialist 

The cliche that "rules are meant to be broken" really doesn't apply to rules about workplace safety. Policies are in place to keep workers safe and your business running as efficiently as possible. What's more, rules about safety help control risk and costs for your firm!

At the National Tank Truck Carriers annual conference last month, Anne Ferro, administrator of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, touted the results of CSA and outlined her agenda for the coming months. Here's a look at the key points motor carriers should be ready for:

This guidance is considered temporary, but will apply until the DOL releases other regulations or guidance. 

For an employer-sponsored wellness program to hit a home run, two factors must be in place. First, the program must address wellness issues important to your unique employee population. Second, the incentives for participation must be just right.

At our May 7^th HNI University event, Sam Rizitelli from Travelers Insurance presented on Transportation Contract Traps: Red Flag Language and Conditions to Watch For.  The Carmack Amendment is the primary law governing cargo liability and was a major topic of discussion during the workshop. 

THERESA DEW
HR Manager 

In a recent blog on private health exchanges, we outlined the basics of this innovative benefits strategy and why many employers are using this to control health care costs. 

As of May 28, interstate truck drivers and bus drivers no longer will need to report out-of-state traffic convictions to their home-state licensing agency.  Drivers still must report a conviction to their employer within 30 days of the conviction, however. 

Chad J. Tisonik
Vice President

OSHA is changing its Hazard Communication Standard, and employers are required to train employees on the updated requirements by December 1.  The changes align OSHA's regulations with the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS), which is the international standard for labeling and clearly communicating chemical hazards to employees.  

Private exchanges are a hot topic in employee benefits, and they're continue to pick up steam. [Our May 16th HNI U event on the topic has shattered our previous record for webinar registrations, and more and more people are signing up to learn more every day!]

Starting May 7, all employers will be required to use a revised Form I-9, the employment eligibility verification document completed for every new hire. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced the change to the I-9 employment eligibility form in early March.