(December 20, 2012) – As part of its commitment to safety and controlling costs, the Town of Westford was awarded a $9,500 loss control grant for a roof management study, a $2,719 grant to purchase stools for 10 schools and municipal offices, and a $1,450 grant for a trailer to transport the town’s trench box. Westford received the grants from the Massachusetts Interlocal Insurance Association (MIIA), which provides property and casualty insurance to the town.

Through the roof management study, Westford will be able to identify any needed repairs that should be performed to prevent leaks caused by ice dams, snow loads or other weather related issues – thereby preventing potentially costly interior damage, mold and indoor air quality issues. The new stools will help prevent unnecessary falls and ensure that teachers and employees stay safe while working in classrooms and municipal offices. Westford’s trench box, which is inserted into trenches during public works operations to prevent collapses and injuries, will be easily transportable to work sites in the town’s new trailer.

MIIA awards loss control grants to its member municipalities to fund equipment purchases and implement training programs that address safety and loss prevention issues. These proactive efforts help protect the town, its employees and citizens by avoiding accidents and potentially costly claims.

"These funds will enable Westford to conduct roof inspections of several of our municipal buildings, along with purchasing necessary safety equipment,” said Westford Town Manager Jodi Ross. “We are pleased that MIIA offers us the opportunity to apply for and receive these grants as they help us greatly, especially during these fiscally challenging times."

The Massachusetts Interlocal Insurance Association is the non-profit insurance arm of the Massachusetts Municipal Association. As a member-based organization, MIIA’s only focus is to provide excellent service and quality risk management solutions to Massachusetts municipalities and related public entities. MIIA insures nearly 400 cities, towns, and other public entities in Massachusetts. For more information please visit www.emiia.org and www.mma.org.