Allianz on how brokers can help clients minimise risk

“Brokers can help their clients by stressing the importance of regular maintenance and inspection regimes to help minimise the risk of accidents.”

Those were the words of Allianz Engineering, Construction & Power chief engineer Glyn Amphlett when the Allianz unit released its latest inspection defects data. The information gathered in 2018 was based on inspections carried out by the engineering business every six to 12 months.

It was found that of the items inspected by Allianz Engineering, Construction & Power, most likely to have a potentially life-endangering defect are escalators and moving walkways (16%), passenger or goods lifts (15%), and fork lift trucks (7%) as well as telescopic handlers (7%).

Meanwhile the overall number of defects identified in plant and equipment that require immediate rectification was at below 2%. However, according to Allianz, the figure represented more than 50,000 items.

“Our inspections data demonstrates that there are certain everyday items, such as escalators and passenger lifts which are used daily by the public, where we still are seeing a high percentage of serious defects,” commented Amphlett.

“Just one of these defects could lead to a serious injury or even loss of life for those using the equipment. There is also the potential of major financial or reputational repercussions for the business involved.”

Allianz Engineering, Construction & Power stressed that the value of inspections must be raised with customers, with brokers playing an important role in the process.