Top 5 Ways to Ensure a Safe Winter Workplace
The Consumer Product Safety Commission says that more than 1 million people seek medical attention each year for slip and fall accidents. According to the National Floor Safety Institute, compensation and medical costs associated with employee slip and falls is approximately $70 billion annually. So what measures can a facility manager take to steer clear of being a part of these statistics?Read below to learn about which proactive (and not reactive) steps you can take to protect your facility in any winter weather conditions.
Buy snow removal equipment and make sure it works
While equipment can eat into the operational budget, sometimes there’s no way around it. You’ll have to make valuable purchases and possibly make considerations such as financing options. Such equipment can include: snow plows, v-plows, straight plows, snow pushers, shovels, salt and sand, and melting mats.Snow melting mats are exactly as they sound; they melt snow and ice on the spot and reduce the need for shoveling. Look for mats that use facility power to generate heat, creating a clear path for people to walk. Mats can be laid down on both walkways and stair treads.Conduct inspections on snow plows, tractors, and any other motorized equipment. A checklist is a good idea so you don’t miss anything. Many equipment manufacturers and dealers provide inspection services, while offering cost-saving deals in the pre-season. Make sure there are no broken parts, components are properly lubricated, and all machinery is fueled up. A break-down when you really need to move snow can mean a lost work day or a costly accident claim.
Employ snow removal personnel
Hire specialized personnel during the season or specify who on your staff will enact your snow and ice management plan. Business continuity and liability during a storm depends on the presence and capacity of these individuals.Such services employ a trained and experienced staff. They also use the proper equipment and can safely manage the removal of snow/ice on the ground as well as that which accumulates on the roof. First, safety is a top priority. Second, your staff can focus on other tasks. Research the service’s procedures and reputation before hiring.
Make a snow and ice removal plan
A detailed plan will ensure everyone is ready should a snow event threaten the area. To establish such a plan:
Identify snow removal personnel. It should be clear who is available during an emergency. A call-out list will get essential personnel on-site when the plan is activated.
Prioritize key areas so crews know where to start. Liability cases often occur after accidents on sidewalks, parking lots, entrances, and open areas where snow and ice build up.
Designate a supervisor and others in the chain of command.
Train all employees on equipment usage, procedures, and slip and fall safety. Your training programs should include guidelines on reporting and response to hazardous conditions and incidents.
Slip and fall insurance coverage
Slip and fall injury lawsuits are expensive and time consuming. Injuries to employees can also limit your company’s productivity. Purchase business liability insurance coverage that covers employees, customers, and non-employees. Also, workers compensation coverage will protect your employees’ well-being.
Regular maintenance
Safety during a storm can be maximized if all floors and walkways are regularly maintained. Repair uneven floors and apply only cleaning products recommended by manufacturers and industry standards. Adequate lighting should be installed and replaced as neededFrom snow removal equipment to training to state-of-the-art snow melting mats, you can ready your facility for the winter and prevent slip and fall injury lawsuits during snowy or icy conditions.
About the author:
Hillel Glazer is an expert in the field of radiant snow melting and serves as the President and CEO of HeatTrak. He has helped hundreds of safety and maintenance professionals design portable snow melting systems for their facilities. He has been featured in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal and on Fox, NBC and The Weather Channel. Connect with Hillel on LinkedIn.