Serving Colorado's Counties
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), insurance claims for animal-related collisions spike during the fall. Recent data indicates that deer-vehicle collisions in the U.S. are a significant issue. Approximately 2.1 million deer-related crashes occur annually, resulting in an estimated 440 human deaths, 59,000 injuries, and over $10 billion in costs, which include property damage, medical expenses, and lost productivity.
Over the past five years, CTSI has paid out claims for 173 wildlife-related accidents in the amount of $1,130,000. While most incidents involved deer, other animals such as turkeys, bears, coyotes, badgers, and cows have also been implicated. Motor vehicle accidents involving wildlife rank as the third leading cause of crashes, trailing only speeding and distracted driving.
In Colorado and across the country, November is the peak month for wildlife-related auto accidents. With shorter daylight hours and the shift due to Daylight Savings Time, many drivers commute during dawn and dusk—when big game animals, especially deer, are most active. Additionally, November marks the peak of deer mating season, when these animals become more mobile, easily distracted, and more likely to cross roadways.
Understanding these risks and taking precautions during this high-risk season can help save lives, reduce injuries, and prevent costly vehicle damage.
While it’s not always possible to avoid driving during peak wildlife activity, these tips can help reduce the risk of collisions:
Stay cautious and prepared—these small actions can make a big difference in preventing accidents and staying safe on the road.
Wildlife crossings can happen unexpectedly, especially when driving through forests, agricultural areas, and regions with high wildlife activity. Colorado Parks & Wildlife has identified the following highways as high-risk areas for wildlife-related auto accidents:
Drivers should remain vigilant, particularly when wildlife activity is heightened in the fall. Increased awareness can prevent accidents and save lives. For questions about claims or to learn more about driver safety, contact CTSI at (303) 861-0507.
As winter approaches and temperatures drop, it is ideal to assess county buildings for vulnerabilities to freezing temperatures, ice, and snow. Key areas to inspect include roofs, gutters, pipes, windows, and foundations. Proactive maintenance can help prevent costly damage and disruptions, ensuring county facilities remain safe and functional throughout winter.
Ice dams form when water from melting snow refreezes near roof edges, causing blockages that trap water on the roof. This can lead to water seeping into roofs, ceilings, and walls, resulting in structural damage and mold growth. Besides clearing gutters and downspouts, consider using heated cables in high-risk areas, especially on lower-sloped roofs or around eaves where ice is likely to accumulate. Proper attic space ventilation can also help by regulating roof temperature and reducing the conditions that lead to ice dams.
The weight of snow and ice can compromise a roof’s structural integrity, especially if snow is left to accumulate. Conduct a seasonal roof inspection to identify and repair loose shingles, weak spots, or potential leak areas. For flat or low-slope roofs, ensure drains are clear to prevent pooling. Keep snow load measurements in mind, and if necessary, establish a snow removal plan that uses safe techniques to prevent roof damage. Tools like roof rakes or snow guards can help maintain snow distribution and reduce stress on vulnerable areas.
Pipes exposed to freezing temperatures are vulnerable to bursting, which can cause severe water damage and expensive repairs. Besides adding insulation, consider using heat tape or pipe warmers for pipes that cannot be relocated to warmer areas. Regularly inspect the insulation for wear and replace any sections that have gaps or cracks. During severe cold, setting thermostats to a consistent temperature day and night can help reduce the chance of freezing pipes.
In unoccupied buildings or areas that will not be used frequently during winter, consider shutting off the water supply to prevent pipe damage and draining the pipes to eliminate standing water.
Winterizing windows and doors helps conserve heat, reduces the strain on heating systems, and can lower utility costs. Inspect all windows and doors for drafts or air leaks, as even small gaps can significantly reduce energy efficiency. Seal these gaps with weather stripping or caulk. Consider applying window insulation film for older windows, which can add a protective layer to prevent heat loss.
In addition to sealing leaks, ensure that all window locks and door latches are secure. Locking windows can help them fit more tightly against the frame, reducing drafts. Check the bottom seal or sweep for doors, as gaps here can let in cold air; replacing or adding a door sweep can help keep drafts out.
The building’s foundation also plays a crucial role in winter readiness. Inspect the foundation for any visible cracks or openings, especially near water pipes or electrical conduits. Cracks can allow cold air and moisture to enter, potentially damaging interior structures and systems. Use exterior-grade caulk or expandable foam to seal these cracks and prevent cold air from reaching interior spaces. Additionally, ensure that foundation vents are closed or covered during the winter months to minimize heat loss further and protect pipes.
Prepare county buildings for winter weather by evaluating roofs, gutters, exposed pipes, windows, doors, and foundations for potential weaknesses. Proactively addressing these areas can help reduce the risk of damage, save on repair costs, and maintain a safe environment for county employees and the public. For more guidance on winterizing your facilities, contact CTSI at (303) 861-0507.
Workplace safety remains a top priority for any county, especially in roles involving physical labor and exposure to outdoor conditions. The number of incidents, particularly among maintenance, road, and bridge workers, highlights the need for counties to have a comprehensive footwear policy. Implementing a policy based on job hazard assessments and environmental factors can reduce injury rates, decrease workers' compensation claims, and improve overall safety and productivity.
Footwear is a critical component of personal protective equipment (PPE) for physically demanding roles. Work boots differ from “every day” boots in that they have a higher shaft to support the ankle, a slip-resistant sole, and a reinforced toe. For county workers, the right shoes can prevent common injuries like slips, trips, and falls that lead to sprains, fractures, and other musculoskeletal injuries.
Statistics consistently show that falls are among the leading causes of workplace injuries, especially in outdoor and maintenance roles. According to recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, incidents involving slipping or tripping accounted for over 30% of injury claims filed by maintenance and road workers in the past year. These incidents resulted in significant time off work and increased insurance costs.
A strong footwear policy for counties should prioritize job hazard assessments over just environmental conditions. For instance, while hazards like snow, rain, or ice are important, job-specific risks are equally critical. Maintenance workers lifting heavy equipment or navigating uneven terrain, and road and bridge workers frequently getting in and out of machinery, face high risks of slips and falls due to the demands of their roles.
To mitigate these risks, footwear should be chosen based on specific job tasks, such as:
Below are specific recommendations for shoe types based on the ground surface:
In Colorado, weather conditions vary significantly throughout the year, with snow and ice in winter and potential muddy or slippery conditions in other seasons. Selecting footwear that offers year-round protection is essential. All-season footwear should meet the following standards:
A comprehensive footwear policy that prioritizes job hazards and environmental conditions is an essential investment in worker safety. By mandating durable, supportive, and all-season-appropriate footwear as part of PPE standards, counties can help protect their workers, lower injury rates, and reduce workers’ compensation claims. For questions, contact CTSI at (303) 861-0507.
Needle stick injuries remain one of the most significant risks to healthcare and public health workers, particularly those in settings where routine vaccinations, medical procedures, and emergency services are performed. These injuries can expose workers to severe infections, including hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV. For county employees working in health departments, correctional facilities, and other public health-related environments, the risk is not only to their health but also to workplace safety. A recent incident in one of our counties highlights the importance of strict adherence to safe handling protocols and the role of constant awareness in preventing injuries.
Recently, a nurse in a public health department sustained a needle stick injury while administering vaccines. Following standard vaccination procedures, the nurse placed an uncapped, used syringe on the vaccine tray after administering a dose. When reaching back to dispose of the syringe, the nurse accidentally punctured her fingertip. Although all necessary post-exposure protocols were followed, the incident is a stark reminder of the potential consequences of even a momentary lapse in needle safety.
While the nurse fortunately avoided a serious infection, this incident emphasizes the importance of continuous adherence to safe needle handling and disposal procedures. The steps to reduce these risks must be integrated into daily practices and reinforced through training and support, as the health and safety of our public service workers depend on it.
To reduce the incidence of needle stick injuries, healthcare facilities and public health departments should ensure that all employees are trained in and follow best practices for needle safety:
Creating a culture of safety within county health departments and other public health facilities is essential to sustaining these best practices. Employees need regular training and should be encouraged to remind each other of safe practices. Supervisors should lead by example, demonstrating consistent adherence to needle safety protocols. Safety reminders in high-risk areas, like procedure rooms and vaccination clinics, can also help maintain awareness.
Each needle stick incident should be reviewed thoroughly to understand the cause and to prevent future occurrences. For example, in the recent case, examining whether a sharps container was immediately accessible or if specific workflow changes could reduce the handling of uncapped needles may reveal valuable insights. Additionally, employees who experience needle sticks should have access to emotional support and counseling if needed to help address any stress or anxiety associated with the incident.
Needle stick injuries are preventable only when every employee remains vigilant and adheres to established safety protocols. The county example serves as a reminder of the importance of these procedures in protecting our workforce from potentially serious health risks. By staying committed to safe needle-handling practices, counties can ensure a safer work environment for everyone, reduce health risks, and foster a proactive safety culture that ultimately benefits all employees and the community they serve. For questions, contact CTSI at (303) 861-0507.
In workplaces across various industries, falls represent significant hazards that can result in injuries, productivity losses, and even fatalities. However, with proactive measures and a focus on prevention, employers can create safer environments for their county employees.
In the County Workers’ Compensation Pool, slip, trip, and fall accidents are the top cause of employee injury… almost double that of body mechanics and lifting combined, the next two most common injury types. Falls can occur on level ground, such as slipping on an icy walkway, or tripping over an object, or from a different level, like falling off of a ladder. Risk factors also include uneven surfaces, improper footwear, and lack of safety signage.
There are things you can do to lower the risk of slip, trip, and fall injuries. Most falls are caused by hazards, defined as any unsafe condition that can result in an accident. Keeping a worksite clear of hazards by using the precautions below can help prevent accidents:
Many of these injuries could be prevented by wearing high-traction footwear or by adding ice cleats to traditional footwear. Ice cleats are devices with small spikes or high traction materials that can be affixed to boots or shoes with rubber straps and can easily be removed.
There are several types of ice cleats designed to meet specific needs. Retail ice cleats, such as those found at outdoor suppliers, are best suited for occasional use during hiking and other winter outdoor activities. Several companies manufacture heavy-duty ice cleats specifically designed for long-term, industrial use, which are more durable and designed to fit over insulated or oversized work boots. They have a higher price point than retail models, but this is often balanced by their increased longevity and specialized features.
When choosing the best type of ice cleat, consider what job duties the employees will be performing while wearing the cleats. Will they need to drive? Will they need to transition from outside to inside frequently throughout the day? Several manufacturers make transitional ice cleats that use abrasive materials or low-profile cleats that allow wearers to drive or walk indoors without removing the cleats repeatedly. Depending on the circumstance, ice cleats can also be worn on one foot to allow for partial traction and operating the pedal of a vehicle.
The following steps can help you minimize the risk of slip, trip, and fall accidents due to icy surfaces:
Each winter, CTSI receives multiple incident reports about county employees being injured while working in icy conditions. Slips and falls are a serious risk to employees, and taking steps to address them should be part of a comprehensive prevention program that safeguards against accidents. For more information about implementing a prevention program or advice on choosing the right footwear for county employees, contact CTSI at (303) 861-0507.
Being prepared for winter weather driving is crucial for ensuring safety on the road. Winter conditions can be challenging and unpredictable, and they often present unique hazards that require drivers to take extra precautions. Here are some key reasons why being prepared for winter weather driving is important:
The Colorado Department of Transportation recommends people traveling in cold weather stock their vehicles with a winter weather survival kit that includes the following:
If you find yourself stranded in your vehicle during a snowstorm, immediately check that the tailpipe is clear of snow. A blocked tailpipe can lead to a deadly buildup of carbon monoxide in the passenger compartment. You should also stay in your car with your seatbelt on unless you see a building nearby. Turn the car off to conserve gas, and only turn it back on occasionally to stay warm. The more hydrated you are, the warmer you will stay so melt snow, if necessary.
Being prepared for winter weather driving involves a combination of proactive measures, such as proper vehicle maintenance, using the right equipment, and staying informed about weather and road conditions. Taking these precautions can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and ensure a safer driving experience during the winter months. Keep an emergency winter survival kit in your vehicle and know the steps to take if stranded. For more information, contact CTSI at (303) 861-0507.
As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes more prevalent in contract management, counties must recognize and address the risks accompanying its use. While AI can streamline processes, enhance efficiency, and reduce human error, it also introduces potential vulnerabilities that could affect legal and operational aspects. For counties that rely on technology to manage contracts, implementing AI with careful oversight is essential to avoid unintended consequences.
To mitigate risks, it's essential to understand AI's capabilities and limitations. While AI excels at processing data and automating tasks like contract generation and compliance monitoring, it struggles with nuanced decision-making and legal complexities. Risk management teams shouldn't rely solely on AI for critical contract decisions. Instead, AI should support human judgment, with clear guidelines on when to involve legal experts or contract managers to avoid missing key clauses or obligations.
AI’s effectiveness relies on the quality and accuracy of the data it processes. In contract management, errors or inconsistencies can result in significant risks, like incorrect terms or missed deadlines. Ensuring accurate, complete, and up-to-date data is crucial for minimizing mistakes. Counties using AI should regularly audit input data, implement verification protocols, and enforce strict data entry standards to maintain the integrity of AI-driven processes. Additionally, it’s essential to back up contract data regularly and ensure secure storage to prevent unauthorized access or loss.
AI tools used in contract management must comply with legal and regulatory standards, especially when dealing with government contracts. Requirements should be met to avoid fines, disputes, or breaches. AI systems should be programmed with the latest legal and regulatory information to ensure compliance. Counties should work closely with legal teams to monitor changes in contract law and industry regulations, updating AI tools as needed. In addition, building a regular compliance review process with human oversight is essential to verify that AI-generated contracts are aligned with all legal obligations.
A significant risk with using AI is the potential for opaque decision-making processes, commonly called the “black box” problem, where users are unaware of how AI arrives at certain conclusions. This lack of transparency can be problematic, especially if there is a need to explain or justify contract decisions. Counties should choose AI systems that provide transparency in their decision-making algorithms to address this. Additionally, establishing accountability is vital. Assigning clear roles and responsibilities for AI oversight ensures that when issues arise, there is a clear point of contact who can address the problem and take corrective action.
Human oversight remains critical in AI-driven contract management processes. Employees must be trained to use AI tools, recognize the system's limitations, and know when to intervene. Training should emphasize how to interpret AI-generated results and the importance of critical thinking in decision-making. Establishing a framework for regular review and spot-checking AI-generated contracts can help catch potential errors or discrepancies early before they escalate into more significant issues. Human oversight ensures that AI is a support tool rather than an unchecked decision-maker.
AI offers substantial benefits in contract management, but it has risks. Counties can effectively mitigate these risks by understanding its capabilities and limitations, ensuring data integrity, staying compliant with legal standards, prioritizing cybersecurity, fostering transparency, and maintaining human oversight. For counties using AI, implementing these strategies is essential for safeguarding the integrity of their contract management processes while benefiting from the efficiencies AI can provide. For more information, contact CTSI at (303) 861-0507.
When a CTSI member county acquires or constructs a new building, it must be reported promptly to CTSI to ensure it's included in the county’s Colorado Counties Casualty and Property Pool (CAPP) insurance. The CAPP Building Add Form is available at www.ctsi.org. Timely reporting prevents gaps in coverage and protects the county from financial exposure. There’s no additional charge to add buildings valued under $5 million mid-term, though there’s no credit for mid-term removals. Keeping the property list updated ensures adequate insurance coverage for all assets.
Builder’s risk insurance is a specific form of property insurance that provides coverage for structures while they are under construction. It covers physical damage to the building or structure and associated components such as foundations, fixtures, and equipment. Builder’s risk insurance can also cover construction materials and supplies used in the project.
Under CAPP, member counties are automatically provided $5 million in builder’s risk coverage for renovations or repairs at any insured location or for new construction with a total contract cost of under $5 million. This coverage protects the county during construction from various risks, including fire, theft, vandalism, and certain natural disasters.
For projects exceeding $5 million, CTSI’s broker can help secure additional coverage to ensure the project remains fully protected. Counties should contact CTSI early in the planning stages of larger projects to arrange for this supplemental insurance.
In many construction contracts, the contractor provides builder’s risk insurance. However, counties must review the agreement to confirm whether the contractor has secured adequate coverage. If the contractor does not offer builder’s risk insurance, the county must arrange this coverage before construction begins.
Even if the contractor provides the builder with risk insurance, counties must notify CTSI of the project. This allows CTSI to maintain accurate records and confirm that the necessary insurance is in place. The CAPP Builder’s Risk Form, which must be submitted for any new construction project, can be accessed online at www.ctsi.org.
When a new building is acquired, or a construction project begins, county officials should take the following steps to ensure adequate insurance coverage:
By reporting new buildings and securing builder’s risk insurance, counties can protect their valuable assets and minimize potential financial exposure. Ensuring that all county properties and construction projects are adequately insured is a crucial aspect of effective risk management. For more information about adding buildings to CAPP coverage or securing builder’s risk insurance for your county, contact CTSI at (303) 861-0507. The CTSI team can guide you through the process and ensure your county’s properties are fully covered.
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has recently announced an important update regarding the affordability percentage used under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) for 2025. This percentage, a crucial factor for determining whether employer-sponsored health coverage is affordable, will increase to 9.02% in 2025, up from 8.39% in 2024. This change is particularly relevant for Applicable Large Employers (ALEs), who must offer affordable healthcare to their full-time employees to avoid penalties under the ACA.
Under the ACA's employer mandate, ALEs—defined as employers with 50 or more full-time employees—must offer health coverage that meets minimum value standards and is deemed affordable. If an ALE fails to meet these requirements, it faces potential penalties. The affordability percentage is adjusted annually and determines the maximum contribution an employee can make for self-only coverage without exceeding the affordability threshold.
For 2025, the IRS has increased the affordability percentage to 9.02%, which means that the cost of self-only health coverage for employees cannot exceed 9.02% of their household income. Since employers typically do not have access to an employee’s total household income, there are three safe harbor options to calculate affordability:
This increase in the affordability percentage gives employers more flexibility when determining employee contributions for healthcare coverage. In previous years, lower affordability percentages meant employers had to cover more healthcare costs to remain compliant. However, with the 9.02% threshold, employers can require employees to contribute slightly more toward their health insurance premiums while still meeting affordability requirements.
Many ALEs use the Federal Poverty Line Safe Harbor to determine affordability based on the federal poverty guidelines for a single individual. For 2025, the required contribution for the lowest-cost self-only coverage cannot exceed $113.20 per month, compared to $101.94 in 2024. This modest increase ensures that healthcare coverage remains affordable for lower-income employees, but it also provides employers with a small margin to adjust contributions.
Employers should begin preparing for this change by reviewing their healthcare contribution structures for the 2025 plan year. While the increase in the affordability percentage allows more flexibility, employers must ensure employee contributions remain within legal limits. Failure to comply with ACA requirements can result in penalties. Critical considerations for ALEs include:
The increase in the IRS affordability percentage to 9.02% for 2025 provides ALEs greater flexibility in managing healthcare costs while remaining compliant with the ACA’s employer mandate. Counties should take this opportunity to review their healthcare contribution strategies and ensure they meet affordability thresholds without facing penalties. Employers can better balance healthcare costs with their operational needs by leveraging available safe harbors and adjusting contribution models. For questions, contact CTSI at (303) 861-0507.
Incidents of lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery fires are rising due to increased demand for devices like laptops, phones, e-scooters, and e-bikes. Global demand for Li-ion batteries is expected to surge sevenfold by 2030, raising significant risks for insurers and businesses.
Li-ion battery fires are most common in urban areas with high usage of e-bikes and e-scooters. Risks increase due to battery damage, manufacturing defects, and improper disposal. When a battery’s casing fails, thermal runaway can occur, leading to fires that are hard to extinguish. These fires release toxic gases, are self-sustaining, and are reactive to water, making them extremely dangerous.
Electric vehicles (EVs) contribute significantly to Li-ion battery fires. Though less frequent than hybrid or petrol vehicle fires, EV fires can reach up to 4,900°F.
Urban areas, including high-rises, EV charging stations, and student accommodations, face heightened risks. Firefighters are challenged by the unpredictable nature of these fires, which also pose environmental contamination risks from water and soil damage during firefighting.
New fire codes like UL 9540 and UL 9540A aim to enhance safety for energy storage systems and prevent thermal runaway. Industries using Li-ion batteries invest in early detection systems and safety measures to reduce risks.
The risks associated with Li-ion batteries extend beyond fires and have severe implications for counties, especially in densely populated areas or public infrastructure. The unpredictability of thermal runaway, the chain reaction causing fires, poses significant dangers in public buildings such as courthouses, hospitals, and schools. Li-ion battery fires spread quickly, releasing toxic gases and producing intense heat that is difficult to extinguish, increasing the likelihood of property damage and injury. These fires can also re-ignite and are highly susceptible to electrical shock from stored energy and damaged batteries. If there are Li-ion batteries in the workplace, consider purchasing fire extinguishers designed to extinguish these types of fires.
Counties managing public transportation, including e-bikes, electric buses, and EV charging stations, face elevated risks. Improper charging or malfunctioning batteries can lead to severe fires, jeopardizing public safety and causing business interruptions. Facilities like waste and recycling centers are particularly vulnerable due to improper battery disposal, a leading cause of fires at these sites.
For counties, implementing comprehensive risk management strategies is essential. This includes establishing guidelines for storing and charging Li-ion batteries, ensuring proper disposal processes, and conducting regular safety inspections. Employees and community members should also be educated on the hazards of non-certified batteries. Investing in early detection systems and adhering to updated fire codes can further help mitigate the growing risk of lithium-ion battery-related incidents.
Li-ion batteries play a crucial role in the transition to renewable energy, but as their use increases, so do the risks, particularly for counties managing public facilities and services. While safety improvements continue, the potential for fires and related hazards remains. Counties must proactively mitigate these risks by investing in safety controls, enforcing quality assurance measures, and increasing employee awareness about preventing Li-ion battery fires. By taking these steps, counties can better protect their infrastructure, reduce liabilities, and ensure the safety of their communities. For more information, contact CTSI at (303) 861-0507.
