ACE USA, the U.S.-based retail operating division of the ACE Group of Companies, joined together with ESIS, Inc., its risk management services arm, to launch an audio podcast, or Internet-distributed program, on the risk management service solutions and applicable insurance coverages that are available to businesses and organizations seeking to proactively prepare for catastrophes and manage potential reputation threats. The podcast features a topical discussion by Lori Brassell-Cicchini, Assistant Vice President, ESIS Catastrophe Services, and Connie Germano, Senior Vice President, ACE Excess Casualty, on the ongoing risk management challenges faced by companies seeking to mitigate the detrimental effect of catastrophe, and the insurance solutions available that can help clients in managing threats to their organizations.

In the discussion, Ms. Brassell-Cicchini and Ms. Germano explore the unique challenges and considerations facing today's companies given the almost ongoing reports of incidents of catastrophes. Whether they stem from a natural disaster, such as floods, hurricanes, earthquakes and tornadoes, or other major events, including fires, explosions and airline crashes--the end result for a company impacted by such an event could be devastating. Selecting a TPA who can provide catastrophe management and crisis pre-planning services and a carrier who can address the inherent reputation risks these catastrophes bring to organizations--as well as offer coverage capabilities--is key to supporting the unique needs of organizations facing these threats.

"If you look at the detrimental effects of catastrophes, for example, in the form of environmental disasters, such an event seemingly beyond a company's control could occur on its premises or at a nearby facility. Environmental catastrophes that affect the earth, air and water can evoke devastating fear on the part of employee emergency responders and the surrounding community," said Ms. Brassell-Cicchini. "No matter what the form, when a company is affected by any one of these dangerous catastrophes--whether it is damage from an environmental incident, a product failing or caused by other factors--it is an up-close-and personal disaster the company needs to react to quickly. It's not surprising that such an environmental event can not only affect a company's bottom line, but can also wreak havoc on the firm's operations, public image, and the safety and well-being of employees and their families."

"ACE USA can address the risk management issues stemming from catastrophic events through coverage offered by ACE Umbrella Plus(sm), the ACE USA Lead Umbrella product that includes catastrophe management coverage, which helps clients by providing advance funding directly to third-parties for managing threats to an organization's reputation and other expenses related to a covered catastrophic event," said Ms. Germano. "This product is offered to owners of manufacturing facilities and is available for all types of risks. Additionally, this coverage can be complemented with catastrophe claim administration and crisis response management services available for purchase from ESIS, Inc."

The podcast, one of an occasional series of audio podcasts that ACE USA and ESIS, Inc. has launched on selected risk management topics, examines the benefits of using the ACE USA Catastrophe Management product and how clients can obtain the necessary public relations counsel they need to communicate to the media and assist in restoring public confidence, while they dedicate their time to managing the material effects of catastrophe.

"Senior management is no longer looking at the risk management team merely as the group that is there to control insurance costs. They have come to understand that the magnitude of planning for catastrophic events--mismanaging an event--can negatively impact your people, financial condition, and equity with stakeholders," said Ms. Brassell-Cicchini. "Having a carrier you can work with that will create a customized, adaptable and flexible program based on your particular needs is a key element in successfully rolling out a catastrophe management program."

To access the ACE USA/ESIS Inc. Catastrophe Management podcast audio program (approximately 14 minutes in length), please visit www.ace-ina.com/podcasts. The material presented in the podcast is not intended to provide legal or other expert advice. It is presented for general information only. Listeners of this podcast should consult knowledgeable legal counsel or other experts with any questions. The above is only a summary; please see actual policies for terms and conditions.