These four volumes are guidelines that form the direction and basis for developing and implementing a comprehensive risk management program to reduce property, liability, and workers' compensation losses in each state agency.

These guidelines are presented pursuant to the requirements of the Texas Workers' Compensation Act, Texas Labor Code, Chapter 412, State Office of Risk Management. Each volume is designed to provide initial, general guidance that may assist an agency toward development of its own risk management program. These guidelines suggest programs, policies, and procedures that collectively may comprise an appropriate risk management program fora state agency. Therefore, detailed programs, policies, and procedures that more accurately address the agency's structure will need to be added to make the risk management program work for each agency. Agencies are encouraged to add and delete chapters as appropriate in order to arrive at a focused, comprehensive program. Each agency is requested to provide copies of any changes, additions, or deletions to these guidelines that support their documented risk management program to the State Office of Risk Management.

The Texas Workers' Compensation Act, Texas Labor Code, Section 412.011(b)(3) provides that the State Office of Risk Management shall assist a state agency that has not implemented an effective risk management program to develop and implement such a program that meets the Board's guidelines. Accordingly, the staff of the State Office of Risk Management is ready to serve state agencies as a resource for information and technical assistance. For more information or assistance, please contact:

This publication is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information in regard to the subject matter covered. It is provided with the understanding that the State Office of Risk Management is not engaged in providing legal, accounting, or other professional services. If legal advice or other expertise is required, the services of a competent professional person should be sought.

*From a Declaration of Principles adopted by the American Bar Association*