Property exposure due to fire can be a concern from equipment, machinery and wiring. If cooking is done on premises, this activity increases the potential for fire loss. Depending on the classes taught, there is potential for additional exposures, from cooking in home economics to wood and metal working in art classes. Chemistry classes and the resultant exposures to fire from chemicals are also a concern. Vandalism and malicious mischief, as well as theft of equipment are areas to evaluate.

Crime exposure is from Employee Dishonesty. Duties must be separated and books must be audited both internally and externally. The external audits should be conducted at least annually.

Inland marine exposure included Accounts Receivable, Computers and Valuable Papers (student records and library books). All must have duplicates made and those duplicates kept off premises. Fine arts are also very common on college campuses including painting, sculpture and antiques. Security should be appropriate for the value of the items. Contractors’ equipment coverage is needed for equipment used to maintain the buildings and campus area. Mobile equipment coverage is needed for items that are transported between classrooms and possibly off premises. Musical instrument coverage using a commercial articles floater may be needed if the college owns instruments that are used off premises in performances.

Occupier’s liability exposures are significant, especially if there are dormitories. Exits and egress must be controlled. Slip and falls must be controlled through housekeeping and attention to spills and potential problem areas. Athletics and special events need proper planning and control. If there are lodging and dormitory exposures, are there evacuation procedures? Are exits clearly marked and visible? Security is always a major concern. Colleges are charged with the responsibility of the safety of teachers, staff, students, and visitors.

Additional items that need to be considered and evaluated for potential loss exposures, if they exist, are liability hazards such as sports, overseas semesters, fraternities, owned pubs, medical facilities, research and development, and police staff. Liability also comes from libel and slander from TV, radio broadcasting, or professor publications, including “research stealing and disputes,” as well as potential copyright or patent infringement.

Professional liability needs careful evaluation. Are trained counsellors on staff? Are nurses and doctors available? Is there an infirmary – is it for outpatient use only or is there in-patient care? What are arrangements with local hospitals and doctors? Are there parent notification procedures?

Automobile liability is a major concern if the college regularly transports students. All drivers must have the appropriate licence for the type of transport specified. MVRs must be acceptable and checked regularly. Procedures must be in place regarding trips, length of travel, sleep time for drivers and backup plans in case the driver becomes ill. All vehicles must be well maintained and records kept at a central location.

Workplace safety exposure is a concern mainly from exposure to equipment. Moving equipment can result in strains and sprains in addition to the potential of items falling. Instructors also travel with students and often intervene to prevent them from getting injured. They are also subject to repetitive motion injuries and workstations should be ergonomically designed.