Air Comfort Wins Safety Award

Air Comfort Corporation, based in Broadview, Ill., has won the James T. Smerz Award from Specialty Trades Insurance Company (STIC) for having the best safety record among the 30 mechanical/contractor members during the 2000-2001 policy year.

STIC, an alternative or “captive” insurance company, gives the award each year to a member company who has the best “loss” record, typically contingent on a good safety record. To even qualify for membership, the contractors already must have demonstrated a commitment to safety, evidenced by a good safety record and an established safety program.

One of the original members in 1991, Air Comfort Corporation will be able to reclaim a portion of its premium for the year, said Tim Smerz, Air Comfort president. The award was named for his father, James, who as president of Air Comfort envisioned an alternative to the standard insurance market. He passed away in 1991 just as the captive insurance group was forming.

STIC provides its qualifying members with workers’ compensation, vehicle and general liability coverage. Each member makes a capital investment up front to become a shareholder and has a seat on the board of directors.

There is a strong emphasis on risk control and managing an effective safety program. The group conducts risk control seminars two times per year where member companies can exchange ideas with one another and hear from experts.