Protecting Your Business: Key Takeaways from Larry Copenhaver’s Safety Presentation
At our ECAT Quarterly Meeting on January 18th in Waco, members had the privilege of attending a safety presentation by Larry Copenhaver, Regional Risk Control Manager at BITCO Insurance. With decades of experience in risk management and OSHA training, Larry brought valuable insights into workplace safety, accident prevention, and the realities of risk in our industry.
One of the biggest takeaways from his presentation? Accidents are going to happen. No matter how many safety measures you put in place, there’s no way to eliminate all risk entirely. However, what you can do is protect yourself and your business from false claims.
Why Video Recording Devices Matter
Larry emphasized that having video recording devices on job sites, equipment, and vehicles is one of the best ways to safeguard your company. When an accident occurs, a video recording provides clear, indisputable evidence of what actually happened. This can mean the difference between a costly false claim and a quick resolution.
Too often, contractors find themselves fighting exaggerated or outright false claims—whether from third parties, employees, or even passersby. Without evidence, it’s your word against theirs. A dash cam, site surveillance, or equipment-mounted camera can give you the proof needed to protect your company from unnecessary liability.
Real-World Protection for Contractors
For those in earthmoving and excavation, the risks are especially high. Heavy equipment, active worksites, and high-traffic areas all create potential hazards. When an accident happens, the ability to review footage can help determine the actual cause and prevent unnecessary legal battles.
A few key benefits of video recording devices include:
✅ Protection Against False Claims – Clear evidence prevents fraudulent accusations.
✅ Improved Safety Training – Review incidents and use them as learning opportunities.
✅ Faster Insurance Claims Processing – Reduce disputes and get quicker resolutions.
✅ Liability Reduction – Prove when your company is not at fault.
Take Action
Larry’s message was clear: you can’t stop every accident, but you can protect yourself when they happen. Investing in video recording technology is one of the smartest steps you can take to safeguard your business.
If you missed the presentation or want more information about risk management strategies, reach out to ECAT or BITCO Insurance for further guidance.
Stay safe, stay smart, and protect what you’ve built!
Thanks for the input Larry!