This Illinois-based manufacturer of high-quality freezable novelties and powdered drinks produces brands consumers love, including Otter Pops, Fla-Vor-Ice and Wylers Light. In conjunction with PMA Companies and Assurance Agency, Jel Sert created a workers’ compensation program rooted in care, compassion and concern for employees that reduced strain injuries and lost-time claims, and enhanced return-to-work.

The Challenge

Jel Sert’s analytics-based approach to safety targeted a tough challenge for manufacturers, strain injuries. An ergonomics program included Jel Sert’s investment in material handling aids, resulting in declining strain frequency. A creative modified duty program accommodated standing, seated and walking work. Expert claims management rounded out the program, including comprehensive managed care services that produced strong savings.

Partnership Results

• 37% lost-time frequency rate decrease (2017 - 2020)
• 36% decrease in strain frequency rate (2017 - 2020)
• Over $2 million in medical savings since 2016
• Risk Management Excellence Award Winner

Partnership Perspective

“I am absolutely delighted to see Jel Sert shine in its risk management efforts. Taking a comprehensive approach to risk management is our bread and butter at Assurance, and being a part of Jel Sert’s innovative, people-centered Workers’ Comp program reaffirms exactly why we do what we do.”

— Tammy Incapreo
ARM, Vice President
Assurance, a Marsh & McLennan Agency LLC Company

“Safety is an extremely important part of our business, whether it’s product related or employee safety. Employee Safety can be a challenge at times and having the right partners makes all the difference in the world. I am extremely grateful for our long-term partnership with Assurance – MMA and PMA, especially their Claims Services and Risk Control teams.”

— Juan E. Chavez, PHR, SHRM-SCP
Vice President of Human Resources, Jel Sert
People First, Safety Always!

About Jel Sert
Since its incorporation in 1926, The Jel Sert Company has been at the forefront of innovation in the food and beverage industry with an evolving portfolio of brands ranging from drink mixes and dessert mixes to freezer pops. Beloved brands include Otter Pops, Fla-Vor-Ice, Pop-Ice, Kool Pops, All Sport, Wyler’s Light, Pure Kick, Flavor-Aid, Royal, and My-T-Fine, as well as a portfolio of leading licensed consumer packaged goods brands.

The Jel Sert Company is based in West Chicago, Illinois, where over 1,000 employees share the company’s passion for producing high quality, high value products that are staples in family households nationwide.

About PMA Companies
PMA Companies (PMA) is a trusted leader and recognized expert in commercial risk management insurance solutions and services. PMA specializes in workers’ compensation, commercial auto, general liability, and commercial package & umbrella coverages as well as offering claims administration and risk management services. PMA Companies is part of Old Republic International, a Fortune 500 company (NYSE: ORI). ORGIG.COM