Every company executive is on the hot seat in this difficult economy, and risk managers are no exception. But those who can cut workers' compensation claim frequency and severity, as well as get injured employees back on the job faster while boosting both productivity and morale, will still be sitting pretty with their senior managements, according to the heads of three award-winning programs.

To spotlight examples of outstanding loss control and safety in the workplace, the third annual National Underwriter Award For Excellence In Workers' Compensation Risk Management–sponsored by the National Council on Compensation Insurance–was presented to a trio of innovative organizations: Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide (this year's award Champion), along with INTEGRIS Health and Snap-on (both of which received an Honorable Mention).

The risk managers from all three award winners shared the secrets of their success in company profiles appearing in NU's Aug. 17 edition (also available online at the bottom of NU's home page, www.property-casualty.com, under "NU Exclusives.")