Sandblasting is an essential yet high-risk trade. While it’s highly effective in preparing surfaces and removing years of wear, it also presents a range of unique risks, especially to the health and safety of workers and bystanders. The airborne debris, toxic air contaminants, and environmental hazards that come with sandblasting make a general liability insurance policy a must for contractors in this field. Retail and wholesale brokers play a crucial role in helping sandblasters manage these risks through tailored insurance policies that address their specific needs.
What Risks Do Sandblasters Face?
Sandblasting operations bring a host of risks that can lead to significant general liability claims. While the worksite may be properly secured, airborne debris generated during sandblasting can drift into surrounding areas, creating the potential for third-party property damage or even bodily injury claims. For example, debris could damage nearby vehicles, buildings, or equipment. Similarly, if bystanders are in the vicinity, they may be exposed to harmful materials, resulting in personal injury claims.
Another major risk comes from improper containment or cleanup. Without careful attention, sandblasting materials can contaminate the environment. Whether it’s dust settling on adjacent properties or materials washing into storm drains, environmental contamination can result in expensive property damage claims.
These are the types of scenarios where general liability insurance may play a critical role in covering the costs of legal defense, settlements, or repairs, ensuring that the sandblasting contractor is financially protected from such third-party claims.
Mitigating Claims Through Proper Practices
While insurance provides a safety net, sandblasters must adopt rigorous safety practices to minimize the chance of liability claims. The potential for harmful air contaminants adds an additional layer of risk that requires careful management.
For example, implementing physical barriers and tarps can help contain airborne debris and minimize exposure to nearby properties and people. It also reduces the likelihood of contamination spreading beyond the worksite.
Sandblasters must also follow OSHA guidelines and adhere to environmental regulations to limit exposure to toxic air contaminants. Proper cleanup procedures, including the safe disposal of contaminated materials, can prevent environmental damage and costly property damage claims.
How General Liability Insurance Protects Sandblasters
Given the wide range of risks involved in sandblasting, general liability insurance is essential for protecting contractors from unexpected incidents.
- Property damage: When a sandblasting project damages a client’s property — whether through unintended overspray or flying debris — general liability insurance may cover the repair or replacement costs.
- Bodily injury: If an employee or bystander is injured due to exposure to airborne contaminants or physical debris, general liability insurance may help cover the associated medical expenses and any legal fees.
Tailoring general liability insurance policies to address these specific risks helps sandblasters protect their businesses from financial losses due to third-party claims, ensuring they can continue operating with peace of mind.
Ensuring Adequate Coverage for Sandblasters
With the unique risks posed by toxic air contaminants and the potential for serious liability claims, standard insurance coverage may not be enough. Brokers must work closely with sandblasting contractors to assess their specific needs and provide customized insurance solutions that address their high-risk operations.
From environmental risks to bodily injury, a comprehensive general liability insurance policy is crucial for sandblasters. By proactively managing these risks and securing the right coverage, brokers can help sandblasting businesses protect their operations and their workers.
Call us today to learn more about how Commodore Insurance can help your sandblasting clients stay protected from the unexpected.
About Commodore
Commodore Insurance Services, Inc. (Commodore) is a California corporation that operates as a Managing General Agency and Program Manager. Since incorporating in 1990, Commodore has developed an expertise in the production and underwriting of insurance products for businesses across the West Coast. Our focus is on providing top-level insurance products to our clients while striving to make it easy to do business for our brokers. Try us and find out why we have continued to be successful for more than 27 years and are recognized as the trusted leader in small business insurance.
