Safety Briefings
In the News: MEL JCMI Bond Program
NEW Municipal Bond Buying Program Comes to Aid of NJ Municipalities during COVID-19 crisis and beyond The MEL created the Joint Cash Management and Investment Program (JCMI) to purchase short-term (1 year) Bond Anticipation Notes (BAN) at fair market prices to save towns money and enable the continuation of important local improvement projects such as […]
Crisis Communications Webinar – Sept. 15
Do you know how to respond to the media or to your community when a crisis hits? “Facing and Embracing Crisis Webinar” is the title of a free MEL-sponsored webinar that will be held on Tuesday, September 15, from 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. via Zoom. The webinar is hosted by a team of crisis […]
MEL Safety Institute Live Webinars
The MEL Safety Institute is offering live, instructor-led safety training via Zoom webinars. Click here to download the schedule, registration instructions, and direct links to register for classes. Click here to visit the LIVE Webinar page.
Cyber Education: Avoiding Phishing
Fishing is a great summer activity, but don’t get hooked by “Phishing” scams that can catch your data just by opening what may seem like a legitimate email, or by clicking on a link to a malware-ridden fake website. Learn the danger of these cyber-attacks and get tips to prevent them by reading this month’s […]
Liability & Waiver Form: Recreation Programs
The MEL has developed a model Liability & Waiver form that can be used for participants in summer sports camps and recreation programs. Click on the document below to download the memo and form. Public Health Issues Memo 3 (July 1, 2020): Liability & Waiver form for re-opening recreational programs.
NEW Cyber Education Series
The MEL Cyber Task Force is launching a Cyber Education Series in May to help keep towns cyber safe. “The Education Series is a do-it-yourself program that will provides 5 case studies that highlight cyber security issues in neighboring towns, how they were affected and what everyone should do to help prevent the risk from […]
Local Officials Seminar Available Online
MEL Annual Risk Management Seminar for Elected/Appointed Public OfficialsThis year’s elected officials training program will focus on Preventing Child Abuse and Protecting Public Entities from the liabilities imposed by new legislation concerning sexual molestation.Please click here to download the information flyer with directions for taking the class online through the MEL Safety Institute’s Learning Management […]
IMPORTANT: MEL JIF Message to Members
TO: MEMBER MUNICIPALITIES AND AUTHORITIES RE: Insurance Coverage and the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency The MEL and its 19 affiliated JIFs were established by their members to address serious emergencies that are beyond the scope of regular insurance companies. Over the last 35 years, we have built the organization and accumulated the financial resources for […]
COVID-19 Updates Page: Notices & Information
The MEL Safety Institute has set-up a special page to house all pertinent information, bulletins and resources related to the Coronavirus (COVID-19). This page will be updated as information becomes available and includes an RSS feed from the CDC. We also encourage everyone to download the NJ MEL App, which is free and avalable for all […]
Cancelled: MSI Instructor-Led Classes
UPDATED: May 6, 2020 All MEL Safety Institute (MSI) in-person classes have been cancelled until further notice. In addition, the MEL Leadership Skills classes for March, April and May have also been cancelled. We take this action out of an abundance of caution. We apologize for any inconvenience; however, our role as the MEL Safety […]
Cyber Risk Control: Social Engineering
Each year there are thousands of cases of “duping” or “impersonation” commonly known as Social Engineering or Business/Vendor Email Compromise. So, what can you do to protect your town? First, know how to identify these kinds of fraudulent “change” requests. Second, adopt protocols and procedures to help prevent Social Engineering theft.Read the latest Cyber Task Force Bulletin for tips and techniques to protect against […]
Feb. 1: NJ PEOSH Record Keeping Deadline
February 1, 2020 is the deadline to tabulate the Log of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses (NJOSH-300). The Summary Log (NJOSH-300A) must be posted in a visible area for each establishment, where notices to employees are posted, from February 1 to April 30 of each year. Click here for the latest Bulletin with information and important […]
Be Prepared for Winter Storms
Winter storms can be unpredictable, but there are best practices follow to increase effectiveness when faced with battling snow and ice in your community. Click here for the latest MSI Safety Bulletin “Best Practices for Snow Emergencies.”
Domestic Violence Policy Act
The Domestic Violence Policy Act for Public Employers requires that all public employers implement a written policy and train employees on the provisions. Click here for the latest bulletin outlining the NJ Civil Service Commission’s directive on the uniform domestic violence policy. Click here for the new MEL Domestic Violence Model Policy and other Model […]
Protecting Children Resources
Protecting children is everyone’s responsibility and MEL has developed training and resources to help public officials, communities and volunteers better understand the issues surrounding child abuse. These materials include a new Protecting Children Model Policy, training programs, a video, and printed materials all designed to increase awareness about the causes and effects of child abuse, […]
MEL Annual Risk Management Seminar
“Protecting Children: Preventing Child Abuse” is the topic for the 2019 MEL Annual Risk Management Seminar for Elected/Appointed Public Officials. The program will be offered during the 2019 League of Municipalities Convention in Atlantic City, N.J.Two sessions are being offered: Tuesday, November 19, 20193:45 p.m., Bally Room, Bally’s Atlantic City Casino & HotelWednesday, November 203:45 p.m., Room […]
Cybersecurity Awareness Month
October marks the 16th Anniversary of National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, created and supported by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the National Cyber Security Alliance.Read the latest MEL Cyber Task Force Update Bulletin for tips and resources to help keep your organization cyber safe.Visit our Cyber News page to read about the latest issues and […]
Flash Flood Response Planning
The lack of rain this summer in New Jersey has left many towns at risk for flash flooding after heavy rainfall. Advanced planning and preparation can help you manage flash food situations. Click here for the latest Safety Bulleting.
Designated Person Indoor Air Quality Training
The New Jersey Indoor Air Quality Standard, N.J.A.C. 12:100-13 (2007), sets standards for indoor air quality in existing buildings occupied by public employees during their regular working hours. A requirement of the Standard is for public employers to identify a Designated Person who has the knowledge necessary to perform the duties defined in the Standard. […]
Illicit Drug Tool-Kit for First Responders
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has released a virtual tool kit for First Responders on how to protect themselves from exposure to illicit drugs.The tool kit includes short training videos and sharable infographics that cover protection when illicit drugs may be present and when they are present, what PPE to wear, and […]
Fire Prevention Week: October 6-12
October 6-12 is Fire Prevention Week. This year the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) theme is “Not Every Hero Wears a Cape. Plan and Practice Your Escape!” For tips and best practices on fire prevention for both home and the workplace see our latest bulletin. For additional information and creative tools for people of all […]
MEL APP Helps Users Achieve Goals
The results of the MEL Mobile APP Survey found that 99% of respondents feel the app is helping them to acheive their goals and they find the subject specific push notifcations useful. Click here to read more.
Crossing Guard Safety & Training
Schools will open in just a few short weeks. Now is the time to make sure your crossing guards and properly trained and prepared to help keep our children safe. Click here for the latest MSI Safety Bulletin and visit our special School Crossing Guards web page that contains many additional resources.
OSHA Safe+Sound Week Aug. 12-18
Hearing loss is the most preventable occupational injury.. August 12-18 is Safe + Sound Week, a nationwide event held each August that recognizes the successes of workplace safety and health programs and offers information and ideas on how to keep America’s workers safe. Successful safety and health programs can proactively identify and manage workplace […]
2020 MSI Course Catalog & Training Request Form
The MEL Safety Institute\’s 2020 Classroom Training information is now available. The Course Catalog for 2020 includes a variety of programs including a new class on “Dealing with difficult people.” To view and download the Class Request Announcement and Catalog, the Class Request Form and the 2020 Training Needs Assessment Guide please click here or navigate […]
Latest Government Cyber Events
The Cyber Task Force has released an update that outlines some of the most recent Government Cyber Events. Click here read the Bulletin.
Hurricane & Severe Weather Safety
New Jersey has been plagued with severe weather and hurricane season has just begun. To ensure the safety of your employees and community, please review the bulletin on Hurricane Preparedness, the safety briefing on Lightening, and learn more about our Emergency Restoration Services.
FREE Cyber Resources Available
The MEL Cyber Task Force would like to let all MEL members know about FREE cybersecurity resources available to them. Click here for a new bulletin with important links and resources. Please work with your Risk Management Consultant on implementing any cybersecurity programs or policies, and feel free to reach out to your JIF Executive […]
Stop Falls: National Safety Stand-Down Week
May 6-10 is National Safety Stand-Down Week, an effort to raise awareness of fall hazards and stop fall fatalities and injuries. Data shows that fatalities caused by falls from elevation are a leading cause of death for construction employees, many of which could have been preventable if proper safety precautions were taken. A Safety Stand-Down […]
CDL & Non-CDL Model Policies
Are you ready for the changes coming in January 2020? Make sure your municipality is prepared. MEL has developed Model Policies for CDL and Non-CDL for you to use and adapt to help ensure that you are ready for the changes. Click here for details.
NJTV & NJ Spotlight Join Forces
Two award-winning news outlets, NJTV News and NJ Spotlight, have joined forces as WNET acquires NJ Spotlight from the Community Foundation of New Jersey to increase and amplify local journalism in the Garden State. NJ Spotlight will partner with NJTV News to create NJ-centric, multi-platform content and one of the largest and most comprehensive public affairs organizations in the state. NJTV […]
Playground/Park Safety Best Practices
When is the last time you inspected your playground equipment? Spring is here and that means more and more young people and sports groups will be on local fields and playground equipment. Now is the best time to get started to ensure the safety of those using your outdoor resources. The MEL Safety Institute recommends […]
New MEL Employment Practices Helpline
Have questions about employment practices? The MEL Safety Institute is pleased to announce the establishment of a New MEL Employment Practices Helpline (EPL), a dedicated resource to guide members on employment related issues. The MEL EPL Helpline is staffed by attorneys that specialize in New Jersey employment law and understand the MEL JIF system. The […]
BEWARE: Tax Season Scams
Tax season is in full swing, which means cyber criminals are on the move. Find out how to protect yourself against tax season scams. Click here for tips and resources to keep you cyber safe.
2019 MEL, MRHIF & NJCEL Educational Seminar
The MEL (Municipal Excess Liability Fund), MRHIF (Municipal Reinsurance Health Fund) and the NJCEL (Counties Excess Liability Fund) are sponsoring the 9th annual educational seminar which will be held on May 3, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., at the National Conference Center of the East Windsor Holiday Inn, East Windsor, N.J. 08520 (Turnpike Exit 8) […]
Jan. 28: Data Privacy Day
The MEL is once again participating in Data Privacy Day, an annual international effort to create awareness about the importance of respecting privacy, safeguarding data and enabling trust. Data Privacy Day (DPD) is led by the National Cyber Security Alliance in North America. This year, DPD will spotlight the value of information. Whether you’re an […]
Snow Emergencies
Planning now for Snow Emergencies can help reduce accidents, injuries and ensure smoother operations when the storm strikes. Click here for the latest bulletin. And for safety tips for workers during winter months click here for the latest Safety Briefings.
Cyber Threat – Ryuk
A new ransomware strain called “Ryuk” is affecting numerous municipalities across NJ with ransoms over $100k. Find out how to protect your entity today. Click here to read the bulletin about Ryuk and make sure to review the MEL’s Cyber Risk Management Program.
2019 MSI Class Calendar & Catalog
The 2019 MSI Course Catalog and Class Calendar are now available. Click here to visit our Safety Institute page for details.
Holiday Cyber Safety
Cyber Safety Warning: When shopping online this holiday season, be extra mindful of clicking any unfamiliar or suspicious web links or pictures. Click here to review our “Email Do’s & Don’ts” infographic.
Leaf Collection Time: An Important Reminder
Municipalities and public agencies collect leaves by a number of different means (leaf vacuums, front end loaders, bagged leaves, etc.) in an effort to improve safety and efficiency of the process. Any leaf collection operation exposes workers to hazards. Please consider the following tips to protect workers: Department Leaders Perform a job hazard assessment on […]
Land Use Liability Update
Handling land use issues can be tricky. MEL has new training materials available for 2018 including a PowerPoint and training guide. Click herefor more information.
Atlantic Hurricane Season
Atlantic Hurricane season runs from June to November — are you prepared? Prepare Now for Hurricane Season
National Safety Stand-Down Week: May 7-11
In an effort to stop fatalities and injuries that result from falls, particularly from high elevations, the U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration is once again sponsoring National Safety Stand-Down to Prevent Falls Week to raise fall hazard awareness across the country. Click here for more information and links to resources.
Employment Practices Program Update Due: Oct. 1, 2018
The MEL asks members to update their Employment Practices Compliance Programs every two years. Updated model programs for 2019/2020 are now available on the MEL website. Click here to link to the page.
Autism and Mental Health Awareness Training for First Responders
Autism and Mental Health Awareness Training is now available for first responders to manage the service risks that involve individuals with mental health issues. More Information J.A. Montgomery Risk Control: Autism and Mental Health Awareness Training
MEL/MRHIF Educational Seminar April 20, 2018
The MEL (Municipal Excess Liability Fund) and MRHIF (Municipal Reinsurance Health Fund) are sponsoring the 8th annual educational seminar on Friday, April 20, 2018, for commissioners, municipal personnel, risk managers and vendor personnel. The seminar will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the National Conference Center at the East Windsor Holiday Inn, 399 […]
MEL Accredits 77 Risk Managers
New Jersey Municipal Excess Join Liability Insurance Fund (MEL) has accredited 77 Risk Managers to advise members.
Kidde Recalls 40 Million Fire Extinguishers
The recall covers 134 models of push-button and plastic-handle extinguishers in the U.S. and Canada made from 1973 through August 15 of this year. Owners of Kidde fire extinguishers are advised to check the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s website for information on specific model numbers involved with this recall. The government says the extinguishers […]
New Shift Briefing on Syringes in Parks
The opioid abuse epidemic has also given rise to an increased hazard of parks and recreation workers coming upon syringes in the town’s parks and playgrounds. When workers find a syringe, they have two options: picking it up and discarding it themselves, or notifying another agency to respond, pick up the syringe, and dispose of […]
Watch those Crush Zones when readying snow plows
As Public Works Departments begin in earnest to remove their snow plows from their summer storage locations, mechanics should stay alert to the many crush zones present in this operation. These include: Attaching hoists and rigging to the plow as it rests in the storage rack or on the ground the moving lift vehicle that moves […]
Portable Space Heater Home Safety
The U.S. Fire Administration just released its study of residential fires involving portable space heaters. Some of the findings include: Each year portable heater fires in residential buildings account for an estimated average of 1,650 fires in the U.S. These fires resulted in an average of 90 deaths, 175 injuries, and $84 million in property […]
How you drive can affect the reputation of your agency!
In today’s world the police are under extreme scrutiny and how you drive your marked police car can directly affect their attitudes and beliefs about the policing community. Abrupt lane changes, dirty looks and improper use of your cell phone will create animosity. Remember they are potential jurors and voters who can have a direct […]
Fire Prevention Week Open Houses
Fire Prevention Week is observed annually during the week in which October 9, the date of the Great Chicago Fire, falls. Many fire departments around the state will hold open houses and other events where families will be invited into their firehouses. The MEL wishes to remind fire department leaders to closely inspect their stations, […]