U.S. defense base contractors overseas just got another level of protection
A new line of workers compensation defense is available for contractors who support United States Armed Forces at bases overseas.
A new Defense Base Act (DBA) insurance program has been launched by K2 OCONUS, a division of K2 Insurance Services, with Nationwide’s excess & surplus/specialty business serving as the underwriter for this new partnership. The program will provide Workers’ Compensation coverage for U.S. government contractors working overseas, especially in high-risk areas.
The program is now live and open to U.S. government contractors working abroad in any industry, including construction, engineering, logistics, security, and humanitarian aid.
“New players continue to emerge and present opportunities for Nationwide to expand our Workers’ Compensation offerings. We are pleased to launch this new partnership with K2 OCONUS–the expertise and knowledge they bring towards DBA will help us tap a new market,” said Dale Hoppe, Nationwide’s Vice President who leads the company’s E&S/Specialty WC programs.
Founded by Defense Base Act insurance industry veteran Chris Leo, K2 OCONUS’ team is made up of former military and Defense Base Act professionals with extensive experience and expertise in field. The K2 OCONUS staff also brings in-depth knowledge of aviation, security operations, and risk assessment, and can tailor the coverage to the specific needs of each client.
“Our entrance into the Defense Base Act insurance market signals a revolutionary approach to a market in need of a contemporary perspective on how our industry can better serve the mission of the customers. Equally, I am honored to be partnered with Nationwide, a leading specialty insurance company that shares our commitment to excellence and client-centric values,” said Chris Leo, CEO and Founder.
The Defense Base Act (DBA) is an extension of the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act (LHWCA). This Act provides disability compensation and medical benefits to employees and death benefits to eligible survivors of employees of U.S. government contractors who perform work overseas. The act provides a means of recovery for insurance carriers that pay claims due to an act of war on offshore workers compensation coverage1.
Learn more about K2 OCONUS
1 https://www.dol.gov/agencies/owcp/dlhwc/FAQ/DBAFaqs