February 2021
News & Events
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Upcoming Events
Meetings:
Training Programs:
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Year-end 2020
Investment Update
IRMA’s investment portfolio made a dramatic comeback in the second half of the year, finishing with a 11.33% estimated return for 2020. After the low point in March, which reflected a 13% loss, investment income returns broke even at the end of July and moved positive in August with a large upswing in November. As 50% of IRMA’s investments are in equities (stocks), we benefit from a rising stock market.
The approximate investment return for 2020 is 11.33%, for the most recent 5 years is 10.32%, most recent 10 years is 8.61%, and since inception in 1979 is 7.41%.
An amazing statistic: since IRMA’s inception, $250 million in investment income has been recorded with $145 million of that earned in the last 10 years. As IRMA’s portfolio grows, income should grow as well. The ending 2020 total cash and investment balance was $207 million, while 10 years ago, the ending 2011 balance was $131 million.
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IRMA Assists in Police Reform Analysis |
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In light of the expansive police reform legislation passed by the Illinois legislature last month, IRMA is planning a webinar where experts will review various aspects of the legislation. The webinar will be scheduled in April and additional information is forthcoming. In addition, IRMA provided a position statement on one provision in the legislation, which would allow the Illinois Attorney General to seek penalties against individual officers for a pattern and practice of civil rights violations. (link to the statement). We are proud that the three Police Chiefs that led the fight for the Illinois Police Chiefs are all from IRMA Departments. Thanks to Crystal Lake Police Chief Jim Black, Oak Brook Police Chief Jim Kruger and Lemont Police Chief Marc Maton for their extraordinary efforts in representing the interests of police across the state.
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Slip, Trip and Fall Prevention in These Harsh Winter Months |
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Did you know that slips, trips, and falls are the second most leading cause of workplace injuries across all industries? Slip, trip, and fall exposures are present in all areas of the workplace and are consistent year-round, but this time of year exacerbates many of those exposures. It is important to remind your staff of these exposures and how to prevent them. |
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Stop the Use of Compressed Air
Employers should not allow employees to use compressed air for cleaning themselves or their clothing. The eyes and other body parts, even the respiratory system, may be damaged as the result of inadequate personal protective equipment, lack of chip guards, and/or uncontrolled release of compressed air.
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A Rise in Eye Injury Claims
As of January 15, 2021, IRMA members have submitted five claims related to eye injuries over the span of only 30 days. Considering that eye injuries on the job are mostly preventable, this data is staggering. Eye injuries can cause vision loss, severe eye damage, and can even result in loss of an eye.
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Respiratory Protection Medical Evaluation and Fit Testing
Members that maintain respiratory protection programs can find a comprehensive list of relevant services including fit testing through Hygieneering, Inc.
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UV Equipment
Now Available – 10% Discount to IRMA Members for Aerapy’s Mobile Unit Air & Surface UV Sanitizing Device DuoGuard. This vehicle unit helps guard against the spread of pathogens in two ways: the integrated fan creates powerful airflow for air disinfection during transport and, once occupied, the UV device sanitizes surfaces. For more information click here.
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Strategies to Avoid Being the Next Cybersecurity Breach
Earlier this month, a Florida water treatment facility computer system was hacked allowing the hacker to adjust the amount of sodium hydroxide in the water to a dangerous amount. Luckily, the system was being monitored by an employee that caught the level increase and stopped it before it affected the water supply.
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Cybersecurity Bulletins
IRMA's Cybersecurity Partner Prescient has created four cybersecurity bulletins with actionable steps that can be taken now to reduce susceptibility of an attack.
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