This Practice Note covers the essentials of employers’ liability insurance (EL). The Employers’ Liability (Compulsory Insurance) Act 1969 makes employers’ liability insurance compulsory for every employer in the UK for bodily injury and disease sustained by employees. Subcontractors do not need to be covered by an insured’s employers’ liability policy. The Employers’ Liability (Compulsory Insurance) Regulations 1998 are discussed, as are common conditions and exemptions to cover. EL policies are often written on a ‘claims occurring’ basis, but this may differ when dealing with industrial claims, such as disease due to asbestos exposure. This Practice Note discusses the application of the Third Parties (Rights Against Insurers) Act 2010, and provides tips on risk management and a checklist for employers to consider.