Every business owner knows that there are many important aspects with operating a profitable business. An absolutely essential part is securing proper insurance coverage. The multiple liability exposures unique to the tanning industry create a need for specific coverages, one of which is Professional Liability.
Professional Liability should be the basis of any tanning salon owner’s business policy. This vital coverage protects the salon against accidents or negligent acts that arise out of the services of its professionals.
As an example, Professional Liability protects salons against complaints filed by customers claiming damage due to UV overexposure. Even when a salon requires all staff to be certified, tanners to be skin-typed, and new tanners have shorter session times, situations occur and a salon can find itself in need of good coverage, which Professional Liability offers.[gap height=”20″]
To reduce claims, make sure you and your staff are taking all the precautions necessary to be a safely operated business.
[gap height=”20″]Another thing to consider is the irresponsible tanner who can pose a threat to your salon. These individuals tan at other facilities in addition to yours; their overexposure can come from a week on the beach in Hawaii or from frequenting a competing salon. Premature skin aging, cataracts, and other skin diseases may be the result of time spent tanning in a variety of locations, but your salon may be their target for compensation.
Unfortunately, operator error occasionally occurs. A new staff member may overestimate a tanner’s exposure time, or may allow additional tanning time at the guest’s request. This is a dangerous practice, one that could cause injuries and the salon could be held liable; so it is extremely important that all of your staff are properly trained and also industry certified. Professional Liability coverage will protect the salon from this type of claim.
Professional Liability claims may not be as common as “slip and fall” claims, which come under the General Liability; but when they occur, they have a severe price tag. To that end, make sure your policy includes Professional Liability for UV exposure and watch out for cancer exclusions. Since the tanning industry is ever-changing, it is important that your Professional Liability policy changes with it and includes all the services your salon provides.
If you are diversifying your salon’s service menu to include services such as those done by beauticians, estheticians, nail and spray-tan technicians and more, make sure that they are added to your Professional Liability policy in addition to your UV exposure. Talk to your specialized insurance agent to make sure your current policy provides the necessary protection you require.
To reduce claims, make sure you and your staff are taking all the precautions necessary to be a safely operated business. Remember that the best way to protect your investment is to purchase appropriate insurance coverage. Work with an agent familiar with the industry, who is able to tailor coverages to your specific needs.
Feel free to contact our office for recommendations on how to better protect your business. In addition to receiving a greater knowledge of the industry, you could potentially save money on your insurance (this alone shows the importance of a well trained staff).
