As business leaders, we’ve all faced those unsettling moments … when you realize you’ve been targeted by a phishing scam or when your inbox is flooded with suspicious emails. I know firsthand that I often need to remind our staff here at PHCC—National to be cautious of emails that appear to come from my own address. While cybersecurity threats like this are a common risk in today’s world, they’re just one piece of the larger puzzle when it comes to managing safety and risk within your business.

As leaders of plumbing and HVAC companies, you carry the significant responsibility of being the stewards of safety for your organizations. This means overseeing everything from cybersecurity to building security, employee well-being, and financial stability. It’s a lot to manage, but it’s critical to ensure the safety and success of your business.

Strong Leadership

At PHCC, we’re committed to helping our members navigate these challenges, and one key element in effective risk management is strong leadership. As you know, risk management isn’t just about addressing immediate threats; it’s about being proactive and taking steps to prevent issues before they arise. This encompasses everything from financial planning to ensuring your staff is properly trained and equipped to handle day-to-day challenges.

For example, a recent article on succession planning from Associations Now Daily News underscored the importance for CEOs to consider what financial roles they are solely responsible for … and what processes need to be in place if they temporarily or permanently step away from their position.

Additionally, the day-to-day operations of your company – such as leading meetings, writing staff communications, and delegating important tasks – are also vital aspects of leadership that directly impact your company’s safety culture. Effective communication and clear leadership are essential for creating an environment where risk management is everyone’s responsibility.

In the latest issue of PHCC Solutions, the PHCC Educational Foundation addresses the practice of managers cross-training two people in the company to do their jobs, preparing for a situation in which a key employee may advance to another position or leave the company. This is a “win-win” strategy on multiple levels (see page 28).

Helping Our Members Manage Risks

One of the strongest resources we have here at PHCC is our relationship with Corporate Partner Federated Insurance, which works closely with our members to help them manage risks and meet their insurance needs. In a recent Risk Management Corner resource, Federated recommended investing time and resources in:

• Developing sound policies and procedures.
• Setting clear expectations for all team members.
• Rewarding positive behaviors and risk-conscious actions.
• Maintaining open communication channels.
• Staying informed about current safety regulations and industry best practices

Federated also highlights the importance of encouraging a culture of ownership when it comes to safety. Take Josh Hollub, the PHCC/Federated Insurance Safety First! Contractor of the Year (featured on page 12 in this issue of Solutions), as an example. His commitment to training, education, and equipping employees to recognize potential issues has empowered his team at Modern Plumbing to take proactive steps in ensuring the safety of their workplace.

In addition, Federated reminds us of several proactive steps that can significantly reduce risk:

• Conducting regular risk assessments.
• Reviewing and updating safety policies on an annual basis.
• Providing necessary tools, equipment, and PPE.
• Encouraging regular breaks to promote overall well-being

Ultimately, Federated believes that “everyone is a risk manager.” From new hires to project managers, every single team member plays a role in keeping your business safe. By fostering a culture where risk management is seen as a shared responsibility, you can ensure that safety isn’t just a policy, it becomes part of the fabric of your business.

Cindy Sheridan, CAE, is Chief Executive Officer of PHCC—National Association. With decades of association management experience – most recently as the Chief Operating Officer of the PHCC Educational Foundation – Sheridan and her team work to ensure that PHCC contractors are the best choice for professionalism, reliable products, and knowledgeable service.