County officials discuss expanding risk management to public works and health departments

The Utah County Commission meeting on September 28, 2022, focused on enhancing risk management practices within county departments, particularly the sheriff's department and potentially expanding to public works and the health department. The discussion emphasized the importance of implementing a chargeback program for preventable losses, which could lead to a significant reduction in claims and associated costs.

Commissioners were urged to adopt a chargeback system where departments would be responsible for covering the costs of their preventable losses. This approach has been successfully implemented in other counties, such as Logan, where it has fostered a culture of accountability and reduced losses significantly. The proposal suggests that by charging back either the full deductible or a percentage of the loss, the county could see a 20% reduction in losses almost immediately.

The meeting also highlighted the need for a dedicated risk management department within Utah County, which could consist of two to four staff members. This department would handle risk assessments, safety training, and coordinate safety initiatives across various departments. The discussion pointed out that many counties, including Salt Lake County, have multiple risk managers who actively engage with their departments to manage claims and improve safety practices.

Overall, the commissioners recognized the potential benefits of these initiatives, which aim to create a more integrated approach to risk management across county departments. The estimated cost for establishing a risk manager position, including salary and benefits, is approximately $200,000 per year. The commission plans to further evaluate these proposals to enhance safety and reduce costs associated with workers' compensation claims.