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PHILADELPHIA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--ACE USA, the U.S.-based retail operating division of the ACE Group of Companies, today announced that it has launched an audio podcast, or Internet-distributed program, on the applicable insurance coverages and risk management solutions that are available to contractors seeking to provide a responsive, comprehensive approach when bidding on work in Iraq and other DBA-mandatory locales. The podcast features an insightful discussion by William House, Senior Vice President of ACE Foreign Casualty, part of ACE Global Underwriting Group, on the risk management considerations that contractors and risk managers face in connection with managing contractor risk in war zones and overseas hot spots and steps employers can take to mitigate these risks.

In the discussion, Mr. House explores the multiple challenges and considerations facing today's contractors and their employees before they even begin working on overseas contracts that are authorized, approved or financed by the U.S. government, or its agencies, and the need to secure DBA workers compensation insurance. Selecting a carrier who can address the inherent risks of operating in these overseas hot spots and advise on the steps employers can take to prepare their employees who are working overseas—as well as offer global risk management and coverage capabilities—is key to supporting the unique needs of prime and sub-contractors doing business outside of the U.S.

“When awarded a contract, contractors must act quickly to secure DBA coverage. ACE USA is committed to providing the centralized, responsive, risk management approach to help them manage risk and make informed decisions when weighing these business opportunities,” said Mr. House. “ACE USA has a highly experienced global network that combines underwriting, risk management and claims expertise in managing the risks associated with doing business in Iraq and elsewhere overseas. In addition, for claims reporting purposes, ACE USA uses a program, e-risk MANAGER^SM, offered by ESIS, Inc., (“ESIS®”) ACE USA’s risk management services division, that makes reporting a claim anywhere in the world much easier through the use of a web-based portal.”

The podcast, one of an occasional series of audio podcasts that ACE USA has launched on selected risk management topics, examines what is typically covered under the DBA Workers Compensation program, the services provided by ACE relating to this coverage, and how ACE addresses claims reporting and claims handling.

“For employers seeking to mitigate these overseas risks for their employees,” Mr. House refers to an “overseas management toolkit,” with the end goal of keeping employees as safe as possible in a high-risk environment, while also protecting the business investment. Doing so requires a company to do more than secure coverage from a DBA policy. “It’s important to address these risks on two fronts, by arming employees with the information they need to stay safe and provide the knowledgeable, in-country assistance he or she may need. Working with a carrier such as ACE USA who can offer a centralized claims unit staffed by an experienced team of claims professionals with specialized DBA knowledge can provide a streamlined, solutions-focused approach,” said Mr. House.

To access the ACE Global Underwriting Group – Foreign Casualty podcast audio program (approximately 15 minutes in length), please visit www.ace-ina.com/podcasts. The material presented in the podcast is not intended to provide legal or other expert advice. It is presented for general information only. Listeners of this podcast should consult knowledgeable legal counsel or other experts with any questions. The above is only a summary; please see actual policies for terms and conditions.

ACE Global Underwriting Group specializes in global programs and specialty coverages and provides comprehensive risk management programs and services for a diverse market of mid- to large-size U.S.-based companies, not-for-profit and government entities. For more information please visit: www.aceadvantage.com.

ACE USA is the U.S.-based retail operating division of the ACE Group of Companies, headed by ACE Limited (NYSE:ACE), and is rated A+ (Superior) by A.M. Best Company and A+ (Strong) by Standard & Poor’s. ACE USA, through its underwriting companies, provides insurance products and services throughout the U.S. Additional information on ACE USA and its products and services can be found at www.ace-ina.com. The ACE Group of Companies provides insurance and reinsurance for a diverse group of clients around the world.