Buy Radio Station Insurance

Radio Station Insurance Policy Information

Radio Station Insurance. As a radio broadcaster, you provide an invaluable service to the public at large. Your listeners rely on you for news and entertainment, and look to you to help them stay informed and to pass the time.

Radio stations broadcast advertising, educational or financial information, music, news, religious services, sporting events, talk shows, and weather reports. Some have call-in shows where listeners can ask hosts for advice on assorted topics.

Broadcasting can be transmitted over airwaves, digitally, by satellite, or over the Internet. As most stations are on the air 24 hours each day, the programming can be tailored to a specific audience, such as children or college students.

Broadcasters are licensed and regulated by the Federal Communication Commission (FCC), which monitors each station for content appropriate for broadcasting. Stations need to maintain logs of all programming for FCC review.

Concerns have been raised about the impact of radiofrequency (RF) waves on humans as these produce radiation which generates heat that can increase body temperatures. A related concern is whether RF exposure triggers certain types of cancer. While studies are ongoing, to date results have been inconclusive.

Currently, the FCC requires radio stations to meet RF exposure guidelines to acquire a broadcasting license.

While owning and operating a radio station can be exceptionally rewarding, it can also be stressful. You're tasked with a great deal of responsibilities and you are liable for any issues that may arise.

In order to avoid the significant costs that can be linked to potential problems - property damage, work-related injuries, lost or stolen property, etc. - having the right type of commercial insurance is an absolute must.

Why is business insurance so important for radio broadcasters? Why types of radio station insurance coverage do broadcasters need? Read on to find the answers to these questions and more.

Radio station insurance protects your broadcasting business from lawsuits with rates as low as $47/mo. Get a fast quote and your certificate of insurance now.

Below are some answers to commonly asked radio broadcasting insurance questions:

• What Is Radio Station Insurance?
• How Much Does Radio Station Insurance Cost?
• Why Do Radio Stations Need Insurance?
• What Type Of Insurance Do Radio Stations Need?
• What Does Radio Station Insurance Cover & Pay For?

Why Do Radio Stations Need Insurance?

Just like business owners in any other industry, owning and operating a radio broadcasting company is not without risks.

The property that your broadcasting company is located in can be damaged in an act of nature, one of your employees could be injured on the job, someone could file a lawsuit against you, citing that you were responsible for damaging their property; and those are just a few of the issues that could arise.

Since you're the owner and operator of your radio broadcasting business, you're liable for the expenses that are associated with any issues that might arise. As you can imagine, those costs can be significant.

While you always do your best to make sure that everything operates smoothly and that nothing goes wrong, you never know when an issue can arise. If something does go wrong, if you aren't insured, you'll have to pay for those expenses out of your own pocket.

If you have the right type of radio station insurance coverage, however, instead of having to cover those expenses yourself, your insurer will cover them for you. In other words, business insurance can protect you from serious financial losses.

Radio Station's Risks & Exposures

Premises liability exposure at the station is limited as public access is generally restricted to designated waiting areas and offices. If members of the public are allowed into the station for community events and broadcasts, or if the station offers tours to schools and other organizations, slips and falls can be reduced through good housekeeping and maintenance.

Floor coverings must be in good condition, with steps and uneven floor surfaces prominently marked, and free from obstacles. Exits must be sufficient in number, be well marked, and have backup lighting in case of power failure. Parking areas and sidewalks should be in good repair and free of ice and snow.

Premises security is important, particularly if the station operates 24-hours-per-day.

Off-site exposures include reporters and equipment at the scene of newsworthy events, and salespersons calling on current and prospective customers. There should be procedures as to how they carry out their duties.

If the station owns transmission towers, proper maintenance is needed to prevent towers from collapsing during inclement weather, releasing chunks of ice and snow on adjacent properties, and to restrict unauthorized access by children or trespassers.

Functional lighting is required at all times to prevent aircraft from crashing into towers.

Professional liability exposure comes from broadcasting activities, including allegations of copyright infringement, libel or slander, defamation of character, invasion of privacy, failure to check the authenticity of the material, breach of confidentiality, or failure to broadcast commercials at the scheduled times.

Contractual agreements should be written and include verification of originality and authenticity of any broadcasted material such as commercials. All advertising, including changes, must be documented in writing. The exposure will be heavier for stations that cover local news events, do investigative reporting, or host talk shows or call-in listeners.

The defense for civil suits and FCC fines due to the broadcasting of obscene material is generally excluded from professional liability policies.

Workers compensation exposures are high both on and off premises due to the potential for slips and falls, electric shock from ungrounded equipment, falling items, injury from the lifting of cable or other equipment, hearing impairment from noise, and contact with clients or the public.

Repetitive motion injuries due to computer work can be prevented with ergonomically-designed workstations. Employees maintaining towers can fall, be struck by lightning, or receive high-voltage electric shocks from improperly grounded electrical wiring. Safety equipment is critical to prevent injuries.

Additional exposures arise from the use of independent contractors and whether employees go on overseas assignments, do undercover investigative reporting, visit dangerous or exotic locales, or participate in contests and dangerous or hazardous activities while on the job.

Property exposure is high. Ignition sources include electronic equipment used throughout the operation, heating, and air conditioning systems. All wiring should be up to date, well maintained, and meet codes for the occupancy. There are usually booths set up for the DJ and other booths for recording radio tracks. As newer equipment is added, wiring should be upgraded as needed.

Electronic equipment is susceptible to damage by fire, smoke, and water. Fire extinguishers and automatic fire extinguishing or suppressant systems should be of a dry chemical nature and not water based. Broadcasting equipment and music libraries are valuable and may be targeted by thieves.

Security should be appropriate for the value of the property and the area where located.

Business income and extra expense exposure is high as broadcasting must be done even after a loss. A disaster recovery plan, including the use of alternate facilities, should be in place due to the time needed to repair or replace broadcasting equipment.

Equipment breakdown exposures are high due to the reliance of the station on electronic broadcasting systems. A lengthy breakdown could result in a severe loss, both direct and under time element.

Crime exposures are from employee dishonesty and theft. Background checks, including criminal history, should be performed on all employees handling money. All billing, ordering, and disbursements should be handled as separate duties. Regular reconciliation and audits are vital. Stations will have expensive broadcasting equipment on premises. Some will have extensive music inventories susceptible to theft. These should be inventoried at regular intervals.

Inland marine exposures include accounts receivable if the station bills customers, audio, and broadcasting equipment, computers, towers, and valuable papers and records for client's and regulatory information. Towers, guy wires and portable audio equipment used on remote sites should be included in a broadcasting equipment floater.

Towers can be struck by lightning, be blown over in heavy winds, or collapse due to the weight of ice and snow. Proper grounding, the use of appropriate guy wires, and de-icing equipment in northern areas will prevent or reduce these losses. Satellite dishes may be considered property or inland marine, depending on the insurer, but inland marine forms generally offer broader coverage.

Since most radio stations use distance feeds, the satellite coverage is important. Valuable papers and records include the license to operate and broadcasting logs required by the FCC. Duplicates should be made of all records and sound recordings and kept in an off-site backup facility for easy reproduction following a loss.

Business auto exposures may be limited to hired and non-owned only for employees running errands. If the company supplies vehicles to reporters and salespersons, there should be a written policy on personal and permissive use of the vehicles. All drivers must have appropriate licenses and acceptable MVRs.

All vehicles must be maintained, and records kept at a central location. Mobile studios may have permanently attached equipment used for broadcasting at the scene of a newsworthy event. Drivers should have training in driving these vehicles, including special training for driving in adverse conditions.

What Does Radio Station Insurance Cover & Pay For?

Radio stations can be sued for a variety of reasons, including:

Copyright infringement: Radio stations that play copyrighted music without obtaining the proper licenses can be sued for copyright infringement. Radio stations can purchase music licensing insurance, which can cover the costs of legal fees and damages resulting from a copyright infringement lawsuit.

Defamation: If a radio station airs content that is defamatory or libelous, they can be sued for damages by the subject of the content. Radio stations can purchase media liability insurance, which can provide coverage for damages resulting from a defamation lawsuit.

Invasion of privacy: If a radio station invades the privacy of an individual by airing personal information without consent, they can be sued for invasion of privacy. Radio stations can purchase media liability insurance, which can provide coverage for damages resulting from an invasion of privacy lawsuit.

FCC violations: Radio stations that violate Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulations can be sued by the government or individuals. Radio stations can purchase regulatory liability insurance, which can cover the costs of legal fees and fines resulting from FCC violations.

Employment-related claims: Radio stations can be sued for employment-related claims such as discrimination, harassment, or wrongful termination. Radio stations can purchase employment practices liability insurance, which can cover the costs of legal fees and damages resulting from employment-related claims.

In general, insurance can help protect radio stations from the financial burden of lawsuits and enable them to continue operating their business without being disrupted by a lawsuit. However, it's important to note that insurance policies can vary widely, and it's essential for radio stations to work with an experienced insurance broker to ensure they have adequate coverage for their specific needs.

Commercial Insurance And Business Industry Classification

• SIC CODE: 4832 Radio Broadcasting Stations
• NAICS CODE: 515112 Radio Stations, 515111 Radio Networks
• Suggested Workers Compensation Code(s): 7610 Television or Radio Broadcasting Station - All Employees & Clerical, Drivers

Description for 4832: Radio Broadcasting Stations

Division E: Transportation, Communications, Electric, Gas, And Sanitary Services | Major Group 48: Communications | Industry Group 482: Telegraph And Other Message Communications

4832 Radio Broadcasting Stations: Establishments primarily engaged in broadcasting aural programs by radio to the public. Included in this industry are commercial, religious, educational, and other radio stations. Also included here are establishments primarily engaged in radio broadcasting and which produce radio program materials. Separate establishments primarily engaged in producing radio program materials are classified in Services, Industry 7922.

• Radio broadcasting stations

Radio Station Insurance - The Bottom Line

To discover the exact types of radio station insurance policies you'll need, and how much coverage you should carry - and the associated premiums, consult with a reputable broker that is experienced in media liability insurance.

Additional Resources For Advertising, Marketing & Media Insurance

Learn about small business media liability insurance - a specialized form of professional liability insurance that provides protection for legal claims brought by third parties.

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The advertising and marketing industry is a fast-paced and constantly evolving field that involves creating and promoting products or services to consumers. This industry is constantly trying to stay ahead of trends and attract new customers, and as a result, it is prone to risks and uncertainties.

One of the biggest risks that the advertising and marketing industry faces is the potential for legal disputes. For example, a company may be sued for false advertising, copyright infringement, or for using someone else's intellectual property without permission. These types of legal disputes can be costly and time-consuming, and they can damage a company's reputation.

Business insurance is an important tool for protecting businesses in the advertising and marketing industry from these types of risks. Insurance can provide financial protection in the event of a legal dispute, which can help a business to avoid financial ruin. Additionally, insurance can help to protect a business's reputation by helping to manage the cost and impact of any negative publicity.

In addition to legal risks, the advertising and marketing industry is also at risk of financial losses due to errors and omissions. For example, a marketing campaign may not be successful, or a company may make a mistake in the production or distribution of a product. These types of errors and omissions can be costly, and insurance can help to protect a business from these types of losses.

Overall, insurance is an important tool for protecting businesses in the advertising and marketing industry from the various risks that they face. It can provide financial protection in the event of legal disputes or financial losses, and it can help to protect a company's reputation and financial stability.

Minimum recommended small business insurance coverage: Building, Business Personal Property, Business Income with Extra Expense, Employee Dishonesty, Money and Securities, Accounts Receivable, Bailees' Customers, Computers, Valuable Papers and Records, General Liability, Employee Benefits Liability, Professional and Advertising Liability, Umbrella Liability, Hired and Non-owned Auto Liability & Workers Compensation.

Other commercial insurance policies to consider: Earthquake, Equipment Breakdown, Flood, Computer Fraud, Forgery, Special Floater, Cyber Liability, Employment-related Practices Liability, Business Automobile Liability and Physical Damage, Foreign Automobile Liability and Physical Damage, Foreign Workers Compensation, Repatriation Expense and Stop Gap Liability.