In general, there is often a misconception about the need for insurance coverage of goods in transit. For goods in transit in the country, most product owners assume that any claims can be covered through the shipping company’s insurance, and in that essence, they are not wrong. 

What is generally misunderstood is that relying on the aforementioned insurance, known as carrier’s liability, can pose uncertainty should a claim occur. While coverage exists, there is often ambiguity that can cloud the apprehension of what is actually covered and what situation can lead to uncovered claims.

Fundamentally, it is important to understand the objective of a carrier’s liability. Being legally responsible for transporting goods or property, the shipping company assumes a duty of care that goods are delivered safe and on time. Any damages, loss or delay during the transportation process will fall under the legal responsibility of the carrier and hence, insurance is mandatory to fulfill their business tasks as well as financially protecting themselves from such risks.

However, technicalities and minutiae in terms of wordings and exclusions makes it difficult to have coverages tailored to the product owner’s exact needs. While such limitations are outlined in the bill of lading, a legal document establishing an agreement between the carrier and the customer, these coverages are unlikely up to the optimum from the product owner’s perspective.

Similarly to the carrier's liability, inland transit policies provide coverages for risks and perils that may occur during transit, such as theft, damage, loss or accidents. However, the policy is bought by the product owner rather than the shipper. Moreover, the insurer may look at the cause of the claim (whether the carrier is responsible or not) in determining the validation and amount of compensation needed.

Thus, it is important to recognize the value that an inland transit policy can bring:

1. Expanded coverage: Having an inland transit policy allows broader protection, with policy tailored to the needs and risks of the specific goods being transported.

2. Adequate valuation: The true value of the goods transported may not be truly reflected in the carrier’s liability policy. Thus, with an inland transit policy, there is better protection against potential financial losses in the event of a claim

3. Control over insurance terms: Insurance terms and conditions are in the hands of the owner of the goods. For example, coverage limits, deductibles and specific coverage risks can be customized to match the specific requirements of the goods transported.

4. Seamless claims process: Having an inland policy can significantly simplify the claims process. With a carrier’s liability policy, multiple parties are required to agree and can provide a stumbling block in providing efficient resolution and reimbursement.

5. Additional peace of mind: Having insurance should give you a peace of mind. With inland insurance, the buffer is enlarged, alleviating any concerns about financial losses and allows the continuity of proceeding with core business activities.

Education

Part of the current issue might concern the lack of knowledge of optimal insurance solutions, but a crucial learning development is to always take a holistic approach in understanding the risk exposures that my financially impact you. And if there is still confusion, consulting those with industry knowledge is always recommended.

Temperatures in Thailand have been rising to alarming levels, as high as 41.5°C in certain areas in Thailand. In districts such as Bang Na in Bangkok, "feels like" temperature has soared up to 50°C, leading to health authorities issuing an official health alert warning. The meteorological department of Thailand has also forecasted an elongated summer, with scorching temperatures lasting until at least mid-May. Thus, the risks of heatstroke should not be taken lightly.

What is heatstroke?

Heatstroke is a serious medical condition that occurs when the body's temperature regulation mechanisms fail and the body temperature rises to dangerous levels.  The body normally cools itself by sweating, but in extreme heat, sweating may not be enough, and the body may start to absorb more heat than it can dissipate. This can lead to a rapid increase in body temperature, which can cause damage to the brain, heart, kidneys, and other organs; and can be fatal if not treated promptly. 

What are the symptoms of heatstroke?

The symptoms of heatstroke can vary from person to person, but some common signs include:

• High body temperature (above 103°F or 39.4°C)
• Hot, dry skin
• Rapid pulse
• Rapid breathing
• Headache
• Nausea and vomiting
• Dizziness or confusion
• Seizures
• Loss of consciousness

If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.

Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to prevent heatstroke, including:

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and other fluids to keep your body hydrated, especially during hot weather or physical activity.
• Wear appropriate clothing: Choose lightweight, breathable clothing that allows sweat to evaporate easily.
• Avoid strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day: Try to schedule physical activity during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or evening.
• Stay in air-conditioned environments: If possible, stay in air-conditioned buildings or rooms during hot weather.
• Take cool showers or baths: This can help lower your body temperature and prevent overheating.
• Never leave children or pets in a parked car: Even on a mild day, the temperature inside a parked car can quickly rise to dangerous levels.

Conclusion

Heat stroke is dangerous and can cause irreparable medical damage. Should any symptoms occur, it is vital for immediate treatment. With temperatures rising in Thailand, it is highly important to take the necessary actions in order to minimize the risk as much as possible.

Appendicitis is well known as a sickness that is common to people of varying ages, but treatable. What is less known is the signs and symptoms that you may have a problem.

Appendicitis occurs when the appendix, a small, tube-like structure that is attached to the large intestine becomes inflamed and infected. Nonetheless, while the reasons for this happening is not always clear-cut, it is thought that the blockage in the appendix, often by a stool or lymph nodes is the main cause.

Symptoms

The most common symptom of appendicitis is pain in the lower right side of the abdomen. The pain usually starts around the belly button before moving to the lower right abdomen. Other symptoms include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Low-grade fever
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Abdominal swelling
• Painful urination

The aforementioned symptoms are general symptoms, but there may be atypical symptoms such as pain in the upper abdomen, back, rectum or in some cases, no symptoms at all. 

Diagnosing Appendicitis

If you have suspicion of appendicitis, there is no harm in seeking medical attention. Generally, imaging tests such as CT scan or ultrasound is the plan of action, but blood tests may also be ordered to look for signs of infection and inflammation.

Treatment of Appendicitis

Appendectomy is the most common treatment for appendicitis. The procedure essentially surgically removes the appendix, and is done as soon as possible to prevent rupturing the appendix. An appendix rupture can cause serious damage and complications such as peritonitis, a potentially life threatening infection of the abdominal cavity.

Although there are cases that no surgery was performed and rather antibiotics was used, it is only recommended in special cases, such as when surgery is not possible or should the patient not be deemed as a good candidate for surgery. 

Preventing Appendicitis

Despite the fact that there is no foolproof way for prevention,  there are certain steps that can be made in order to reduce your risk. A rich diet fiber, drinking plenty of water and maintaining a healthy weight may go a long way to prevent blockages in the appendix. 

Health Insurance 

Appendicitis can be covered by health insurance. It can be brutally expensive as generally it requires a few nights at the hospital for recovery. At CHAZ, we can provide options that allow the alleviation of such costs. 

CHAZ take

Appendicitis is a common medical condition that can be serious if left untreated. Seeking medical attention immediately is highly recommended, but also taking out a health insurance policy can mitigate not only the financial burden but emotional stress as well.

In times of crisis such as the one we are all enduring, with inflated prices stemming from a number of factors including the war in Ukraine, supply chain disruption, food shortages, energy inflation and post-pandemic recovery, businesses, especially small businesses are having to scramble to not make a profit, but merely keep things afloat. 

Research suggests 40% of small businesses are likely to experience some sort of property or liability claims in the next 10 years. Dealing with claims can cause stress in enormity as needless lost time, huge expense and endless frustration. You don’t want to be in those situations do you? Here are a few information and tips that may help reduce the chances of having to go through such experiences.

According to studies, the top 5 common property claims are as follows:

1. Burglary or Theft 20%
2. Damage from wind or hail 15%
3. Damage from water or freezing 10%
4. Fire Damage 10%
5. Customer Slip and Fall 10%

As can be seen below, the cost can add up and add up quickly. The top 5 most common claims in order of frequency are as follows:

1. Reputational Harm 
2. Vehicle Accident 
3. Fire Damage 
4. Product Liability 
5. Customer Injury or Damage 

Risk prevention is highly advocated and smart decisions could save businesses substantial amounts of money, time and headaches. 

Burglary and Theft

One very common risk is the loss of property and money due to theft and robbery. We highly recommend all small businesses carrying out background checks instantly. This will allow the screening of potential candidates so that any prospects with red flags can be isolated efficiently.  Given the access to modern technology, proceeding with this task should not be too difficult.

One very common risk is the loss of property and money due to theft and robbery. It is highly recommended that background checks for potential candidates are carried out as soon as possible. Any candidates with red flags can quickly be identified and isolated. Given how modern technology is relatively accessible, proceeding with this task should not be too difficult.

Installing reasonable devices in your property can also add a layer of protection for your organization. Not only does it allow the protection of your properties, but it also monitors any movements and suspicious activity. Investing up a notch on the security system can go a long way to protecting your company’s assets, aids in catching criminals and acts as a repulsive force for thieves. 

Protect your reputation

Without question, the most expensive claim is regarding reputational harm. With such advancement in technology, companies should be extra careful and give its utmost importance in ensuring that their reputation remains intact.

1. Refrain from negative comments

It is highly recommended to avoid creating negative or defamatory comments, whether that is in print or digital. Reputational harm incidents generally lead to emotional distress and thus lawsuits often ensue.

2. Avoid untruthful statements

Whatever is said can be used against you, so it is vital that any advertisements or social media does not contain any untruthful statements. Falsely claiming something over your competitor or failing to publicly distinguish between truth and falsehood can lead to defamation lawsuits.

3. Educate employees about libel and slander

The perception of your business is often based on word of mouth, and nothing spreads faster than social media. Thus, employees who are involved in social media work must know what should and shouldn’t be said as they could run the risk of libel (written defamation) and slander (oral defamation).

It is integral that those involved in this area understand that expressing something that is not completely factual can have severe repercussions. One error from a single employee can affect the whole business, including other employees not involved in the case.

4. Monitor and moderate what other people write on your website

While engaging through comments and discussions can increase visibility and conversion rates, negativity cannot be controlled. Hence, monitoring these areas are crucial for a safe and respectful online community. A policy such as spam filters is highly advisable.

5. Be quick to fix any errors or negligence in your work

No one is perfect and people make mistakes. What matters most is how you respond to it. While it can affect the client and damage their reputation, it could result in a pricey litigation. Especially relevant to professional services, it is critical to quickly investigate the root of the issue and correct it. A public announcement can further soften the blow to demonstrate that every effort in fixing the problem has been made.

Zooming Out

As Warren Buffet once said, ‘It takes 20 years to build a reputation and five minutes to ruin it.” All your actions should portray this mindset if you are to minimize risks. After all, part of running a business is protecting from harm and liability. While reputational and theft may be considered the most common and expensive, to ensure that you are safe rather than sorry, other risks should also be taken into consideration such as product liability and property damage and liability.