Is Your Business Ready for Winter? Essential Steps to Protect People and Property
With winter approaching, it is important to prepare your business to handle severe weather and its effects on your property and your customers. Below are steps you can take to protect both in winter.
Inspect Your Property
A thorough inspection of your building and property can prevent weather damage and other issues. You should check roofs, building and parking lot/walkway drainage, windows, doors, walkway surfaces, and other exterior property features. Make necessary repairs and improvements to prevent further damage.
Protect Pipes from Freezing
A burst pipe can cause major water damage. Be sure to disconnect and store outdoor hoses, drain irrigation lines, insulate pipes, maintain 55 degrees indoors, and in some cases, install leak detection.
Maintain Your Heating System and Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Keep your heating system maintained and have it serviced before winter. Check or test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and other fire alert systems to ensure they are working properly in an emergency.
Remove Ice and Snow
Have a plan for removing ice and snow from your parking lots and walkways. Make sure if you hire a contractor that all accessible areas are maintained. Pay attention to slip and fall hazards. If you are in a heavy snow area and have a flat roof, make sure you have a plan to remove snow from the roof. Monitor roof loads and remove excess snow using professional services or approved tools that prevent membrane damage. Installing snow guards or stoppers helps control sliding snow and ice, reducing risks to pedestrians and property below. You should also remove debris from gutters to prevent ice dams.
Have Emergency Supplies on Hand
Weather that moves in quickly can leave employees and customers stranded. Be sure to have an emergency kit including food, water, blankets, and first aid supplies at your facility.
Have a Communication Plan
Employees, vendors, and guests should be contacted if weather impacts business operations. Set up a communication plan to notify people associated with your business, as well as emergency staff if your business is impacted by the weather.
Encourage Safe Winter Driving
Make sure that company vehicles are prepared for winter driving and encourage more cautious driving in bad weather. This also includes closing the business or providing opportunities for employees to work from home to avoid driving on bad roads.
Being prepared for winter is an investment in safety and peace of mind. It can prevent costly repairs and other expenses throughout winter and all year long.
Sources:
https://www.nhtsa.gov/winter-driving-tips
https://www.ready.gov/winter-weather
This information is provided as a general overview. Actual coverage and services may vary and is subject to policy language as issued. Coverage is underwritten by CopperPoint Insurance Company, or one of its wholly-owned insurance companies, and is limited to the states where licensed. California policies are underwritten by Pacific Compensation Insurance Company and Alaska National Insurance Company.
This resource is intended solely for general informational and risk management purposes. It is not intended to be, and should not be construed as, legal advice or a substitute for professional consultation. CopperPoint Insurance Companies do not provide legal advice. Coverage and risk management recommendations may vary based on individual circumstances. Employers should consult with their own legal counsel and insurance professionals regarding specific contracts, coverage, and compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
