Best Releases Underwriting Guide 3rd Flow

A.M. Best Co. announced the release of the “third flow” of its 2004 Underwriting Guide, a series designed to provide underwriters and risk managers with a “better understanding of industrial and commercial risks.”

Best noted it’s been publishing the Guide since 1974. It “offers underwriters and risk managers descriptions of more than 575 risk classifications that describe each risk and quantify the degree of exposure in relevant lines of liability,” said the announcement. ” This guide allows users to quickly become familiar with every aspect of a risk. Best’s Underwriting Guide is now being released to new subscribers in CD-ROM or online formats. With these options, purchasers can use powerful search features and convenient online help.”

New and revised classifications are released quarterly. Extensively revised classifications released in the third edition of 2004 include the following:
— Collection Agencies
— Data Processing/Payroll Services
— Manufactured Home Retailers
— Police Departments
— Poultry – Raising
— Textile Mills – Yarn Spinning and Weaving
— Water Well Drilling Contractors
— Woodworking Shops

Best also noted that “several classifications have been updated to reflect new information;” these include:
— Art Galleries/Dealers
— Automobile and Truck Rental Agencies
— Beauty Salons and Barber Shops
— Bicycle Shops – Sales and Service
— Boiler Maintenance Contractors
— Coin Dealers
— Dental Supply Dealers
— Fence Erection Contractors and Dealers
— Furniture Refinishing and Repair Shops
— Manufactured Home Producers
— Weather Forecasting Services (Private)

A new article on Public Bus Companies has also been added.

Classifications provide risk descriptions, relevant hazards and safety measures, materials and equipment used, lines of liability to consider, special exposures, SIC and ISO codes and more. For more information, visit http://www.ambest.com/sales/BUGCDROM (CD-ROM), http://www.ambest.com/sales/buglosscenter (online) or call (908) 439-2200, ext. 5742.