Snow and ice removal is crucial for preventing slip-and-fall accidents on commercial properties. Winter brings increased risks with icy sidewalks and snowy parking lots, making it essential for property managers and maintenance teams to act swiftly. By prioritizing snow and ice removal, they play a vital role in ensuring everyone’s safety. A proactive risk mitigation strategy not only prevents injuries but also helps commercial property owners avoid costly claims and maintain a safe environment for all.
Why Risk Mitigation Matters
Snow and ice accumulation can make sidewalks and parking lots hazardous. Slip-and-fall incidents are common workplace injuries during winter, leading to increased workers’ compensation claims and liability risks if clients or visitors are injured. Early snow removal and ice treatment minimize these dangers.
Best Practices for Effective Snow and Ice Removal
- Create a Snow Removal Plan: Have a clear plan for snow and ice removal before the first snowfall. Identify high-risk areas like entrances, walkways, and parking spots near curbs.
- Monitor Weather Conditions: Use reliable weather tracking to anticipate storms and freezing temperatures. Deploy teams early to prevent ice buildup.
- Use Effective De-icing Materials: Salt, sand, and ice-melt products reduce ice formation and improve traction. Ensure these materials are readily available throughout the season.
- Conduct Regular Inspections: Perform frequent inspections during and after storms. Clearing snow is not a one-time task; it often requires multiple treatments.
Training and Documentation to Prevent Potential Liability Issues
- Training: Equip your team with comprehensive training on safe snow and ice removal techniques. This training should cover the proper use of equipment, effective methods for de-icing, and best practices for maintaining clear walkways and parking lots. Emphasize the importance of wearing appropriate safety gear, such as non-slip footwear and reflective clothing, to prevent accidents during removal activities.
- Documentation: Additionally, document all snow and ice removal efforts meticulously. Keep detailed records of when and where snow removal and de-icing were performed, the materials used, and any inspections conducted. This documentation can include logs, photographs, and reports. Accurate records are crucial if an injury occurs, as they can demonstrate that reasonable steps were taken to maintain safe conditions and can help mitigate liability in case of legal claims.
- Reporting: If an incident occurs, report it to your insurance agent as soon as possible. FBinsure clients can report a claim 24/7 by calling 508-824-8666 and following the prompts for CSR24.
By taking these preventive steps, property managers and their teams can reduce injury risks and liability during the winter months. FB Risk Advisors can help you ensure that your property is adequately covered and that you have the right policies in place to protect against winter-related incidents. Contact the FB Risk Advisors today to discuss your commercial insurance needs and how we can work together to keep your property safe and secure all winter long.
Questions on general liability or risk management solutions? Contact (508) 824-8666 and ask to speak with our FB Risk Advisors.
Learn more about the FB Risk Advisors here: Risk Reduction Approach – FBinsure
View this article on LinkedIn: Snow and Ice Risk Mitigation – LinkedIn Article
