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Department stores are large operations usually located in multi-level buildings or malls that sell a wide variety of products. Items are stocked according to the section or department they belong to. Typical departments in a department store are women's clothing, men's clothing, young women's clothing, young men's clothing, infant's and children's clothing, shoes, undergarments, cosmetics, household furnishings and appliances, bed and bath supplies, sporting goods and jewelry. Each department has its own sales associates and checkout counters. Delivery, alterations and repair services are usually offered at department stores. Cafeterias, cafes, coffee kiosks and salons are sometimes located within these businesses. Department stores hire at least 50 employees at a time and often have their own charge accounts.

General Liability Insurance for Department Stores – Elevators and escalators inside department stores must be in working order, labeled with visible warning signs, and inspected on a regular basis. Stairs should be constructed to code and have skid resistant surfaces and sturdy handrails. The store must have ample walking space with floors in good condition and exit signs that are clearly visible. Public restrooms located inside department stores should be constructed to code to ensure safety and ADA compliance. Restrooms should be kept sanitary and any wet spots should be immediately cleaned with appropriate “Wet Floor” signage to help prevent slips and falls. Outdoor walk areas and parking lots should also be in good condition and free of debris to help prevent a slip and fall hazard. If the department store imports products from a foreign country, then products liability may be increased.

Workers’ Compensation Insurance for Department Stores – If food and drinks are served inside department stores, employees could suffer from burns, cuts, or slips and falls. If repair work is offered, employees could be injured while using tools and/or machinery. The use of stools and stepladders will also increase workers’ compensation risks. When not in use, stools and stepladders should be stored in a safe place. Training in their usage should be provided and employees should be warned about the dangers of loss of balance caused by reaching. Employees may also be injured when lifting heavy objects or while using knives and razors to open boxes of merchandise. Safety training should be taught that is specific to the employees’ job duties.

Business Automobile Insurance for Department Stores – If the department store offers delivery services of any kind, the risk for automobile accidents is high. The company vehicles must be in working order and well maintained with documentation on file. If employees use their own vehicles for business related travel, they should be required to carry Personal Auto Liability insurance with a minimum of $300,000 combined single limits. Drivers must have a valid drivers license, a good driving record, and MVRs must be checked regularly.

Property Insurance for Department Stores – Theft is a risk at department stores. The risk is even higher if the store sells expensive items and/or electronics. Security cameras and alarms may help prevent theft. Fire is another risk at department stores. The fire load may include cardboard shipping cartons, clothing items, and paper and plastic packaging materials. Depending on the type of store and the products and services offered, fire is likely to occur if chemicals are used during repair work. If cafeterias or cafes are present, then cooking could cause a fire hazard as well. Fire risks are also directly impacted by the proximity and occupancy of neighboring business.

Crime Insurance for Department Stores – Department stores must have procedures in place to help prevent employee theft and dishonesty. Employees may steal money or merchandise from the store. By monitoring cash flow, separating the duties of those responsible for handling money, and performing routine inventory counts, the risk of employee theft will be reduced. Outsiders to purchase merchandise may use invalid or fraudulent credit cards or checks. As a result, department stores should be equipped with the latest technology for identifying fraudulent checks and credit cards. Department stores should also have security systems in place to reduce the likelihood of burglary or robbery.