BLOG NUMBER 6.39

Accident Prevention for Commercial Properties

As the temperature drops outside and snow, freezing rain, and ice becomes commonplace, it is imperative that precautions are taken to ensure the safety of every person who comes and goes from a property. Any snow removal accident expert will tell a property owner or manager to hire a professional to clear away the aftermath of a snowstorm, but steps can be taken before the first flake falls to make the transition from fall to winter a smooth one.

Parking Lots and Driveways

Don’t wait until the parking lot is full of snow before action is taken. Perform maintenance throughout the year to level out the surface and prevent potholes and breaks on the asphalt from forming. Lighting should also be maintained properly to avoid any poorly lit corners that can harbor ice without anyone realizing it’s there until someone slips on it. Salt should be spread throughout the parking lot and along driveways before any serious drop in temperature.

Walkways and Sidewalks

Like parking lots, sidewalks should be properly maintained and kept free of cracks, breaks, and crumbling concrete. Salt should be sprinkled on walkways to prevent slippage, but don’t ignore handrails. Wobbly railing can pose an added risk and should be fixed. Iron and other metal railings tend to be more slippery with an accumulation of ice than other materials and should be regularly cleared of ice and snow.

Entrances

Entrances and exit doors should be cleared of snow and ice, a non-slip mat should be inside the door to give people a place to stand, and puddles and bits of snow and ice should be mopped up as quickly as possible to prevent falls. Want to get ahead of your problems, accident prevention for commercial properties include A WET FLOOR sign that should be clearly posted at all times.

Stairs

Steps should be kept completely cleared and salted to prevent ice and snow accumulation. Mats that help feet grip the surface of the stair may add an extra precaution.

Roofs

IF snow accumulations seem to be accumulating too high on a roof or overhand, have a snow removal expert safely remove the excess snow to prevent the snow from falling on a person walking beneath, or from causing possible damage to the roof itself.

Floors

Floors just inside the building where everyone walks in from the outside should be kept as dry as possible. Provide a specific space for snow boots, umbrellas, and coats to be stored that keeps wet items off the main floor.

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