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As remote and hybrid work environments soar in popularity for some, and the return to the traditional office remains the bread and butter for others, underwriting agencies need to understand the challenges at-play to ensure their clients are adequately covered for all risks.

How the pandemic has impacted the risk landscape

The COVID-19 pandemic changed the way that many workplaces operate – from where staff work to the implications of snap or state-wide lockdowns and even the impact of illness due to an employee’s positive COVID result or exposure as a contact. Operational and personal resilience is now in the spotlight, and how underwriting agencies ensure workplaces are adequately covered is paramount to this recovery.

48 per cent of insurance executives admitted that their organisation was unprepared for the economic storms after the pandemic, with only 25 per cent agreeing that they had a clear action plan to remain financially resilient, according to Deloitte.

In some instances, the age-old “preparation” question was linked to how business interruption was underwritten in an organisation’s policy. While the viability of business interruption is still being contested within the courts (at time of writing), underwriting agencies will need to work with their clients to ensure their coverage is clear and meets all expectations.

The remote work revolution

As remote working cements its place, underwriting agencies need to consider the multitude of risks that come with a geographically split workforce. While employers and employees alike recognise the benefits of flexible working arrangements, remote work also introduces a new environment – the home – that typically has not been accounted for from an operations or risk assessment perspective.

Many workplaces are yet to experience the continued impact of remote or hybrid work and the potential implications of injuries or incidents sustained in the home. Underwriting agencies will need to consider the consequence of continued remote work, particularly around workers’ compensation issues and employers’ obligations to provide a safe workplace.

Capitalising on the increasing use of technology

Technology brings new ways to complete tasks faster, yet it also brings new risks to the forefront.

There are and has always been the typical risks of technology such as security breaches, room for error in automated tasks and human error – from sending incorrect emails or publishing content at the push of a button. However, as many workplaces adapt their work environment through the increasing use of technology, such as video conferencing and online project management tools, underwriting agencies will need to ensure their client’s coverage includes the entire picture of technology-related risks.

To learn how Gallagher Bassett can help you drive transformation and address the challenges of the workplaces of tomorrow, head to our Underwriting Agencies Hub or contact James Needs at james_needs@gbtpa.com.au.