XL Insurance (Bermuda) Ltd Announces Enhancement and Launching of New Employment Practices Liability Policy

HAMILTON, Bermuda, April 28, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- XL Insurance (Bermuda) Ltd ("XLIB") today announced that it has enhanced its Employment Practices Liability Policy to address the latest EPL risks by launching the XL Bermuda Longtail EPL Form.

XLIB Professional Lines Chief Underwriting Officer James Loder said: "In the current economic environment of workforce reduction, challenging working conditions, and increasing litigation and regulation, companies are facing greater EPL risks than ever before. Many US regulatory bodies, including the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and US Department of Labor, are stepping up their monitoring and investigation of employment practices.  For example, the EEOC had its budget increased by $23 million in 2010. It is expected to receive an additional $18 million and hire 100 new investigators this year. Just as these organizations are focused on building their resources to strengthen their efforts, companies must be vigilant in understanding their risks, the value of EPL coverage and ensuring that they are adequately protected."

The 2011 XL Bermuda Longtail EPL Form covers a variety of current and growing EPL risks such as genetic discrimination, immigration issues, military service protections, harassment and all manner of retaliation including those exposures that may arise from recent Wall Street reform regulations regarding whistle blowing.

Highlights of the 2011 XL Bermuda Longtail EPL Form* also include:

• Full punitive damages coverage: (no need for an offshore wrap)
• No panel counsel requirement
• Coverage for claims by independent contractors who allege employment status
• Workplace bullying
• Harassment via electronic communication including internet social networking
• Claims reported policy
• Indemnification policy with no duty to defend
• Bordereau claims reporting
• Optional third party coverage
• Similar capabilities are available on an excess follow form basis

Patrick Tannock, XLIB President, said: "The enhancement of our EPL policy once again demonstrates XL's ability to find solutions to meet our clients' ever changing needs. We were the first Bermuda insurer to offer primary EPL coverage back in 1996 and we have continued to provide superior underwriting and claims handling expertise. As we celebrate our 25th year in business, we are proud to be able to offer the enhanced XL Bermuda Longtail EPL Form."

Recognized historically for offering clients broad and tailored catastrophe coverage solutions, XLIB has financial strength ratings of A from both A.M. Best and Standard & Poor's and offers EPL clients, which are US domiciled companies with worldwide exposures, up to US $25 million in limits excess of a US $1.5 million minimum attachment point.   All of XLIB's EPL policies are backed by many years of XLIB's specialized experience in handling complex and high profile claims.

* Policy highlights are summaries only. Please contact your Bermuda-based broker for a copy of the 2011 XL Bermuda EPL Longtail Form.

About XL Insurance

XL Insurance is the global brand used by XL Group plc's insurance companies and underwriting divisions offering property, casualty, professional and specialty insurance products throughout the world. More information about XL Insurance is available at www.xlinsurance.com.

About XL

XL was formed in 1986 in response to the unmet risk management needs of 68 of the world's largest companies. This year, as XL celebrates its 25th anniversary, it remains the company clients look to for innovative insurance and reinsurance solutions for their most complex risks.  XL Group plc, through its subsidiaries, is a global insurance and reinsurance company providing property, casualty, and specialty products to industrial, commercial, and professional firms, insurance companies and other enterprises on a worldwide basis. Its principal offices are located at No. 1 Hatch Street Upper, 4th Floor, Dublin 2, Ireland. More information about XL Group plc is available at www.xlgroup.com.

Contact:
Carol Parker Trott
Media Relations
(441) 294-7290

SOURCE XL Insurance