Winter can be a treacherous time for businesses. Not only do you have to worry about the cold weather and hazardous conditions, but you also have to worry about keeping your entranceways clear of snow and ice.
If you don’t take precautions, your business could be at risk for slips and falls. In this article, we will discuss some tips for dealing with winter weather hazards.
Commercial Snow Removal And Ice Management Services
One of the best ways to keep your business safe during winter is to hire a professional snow removal and ice management company. These companies are equipped with the necessary tools and experience to keep your entranceways clear and safe.
They will also provide you with regular updates on the condition of your property so that you can be proactive about keeping it safe. The folks at the Neave commercial snow removal company note that businesses should have a plan in place for dealing with the snow and ice before it becomes a problem.
This includes having the right equipment on hand and being familiar with your local ordinances. Additionally, you should have a clear understanding of your liability in the event that someone is injured on your property.
While commercial snow removal and ice management companies are great resources, they can be expensive. If you’re on a budget, there are some things you can do to keep your entranceways safe without breaking the bank.
Shovel Regularly
One of the most effective (and cheapest) ways to keep your entranceways clear is to shovel regularly. This means having a few people on hand to shovel after every snowfall.
You’ll also want to make sure that you’re using the right type of shovel for the job. A plastic shovel will do more harm than good if you’re dealing with heavy snowfalls. Instead, opt for a metal shovel with a wide blade.
This will make it easier to clear the snow without damaging your property. When you’re shoveling, be sure to clear a path that’s at least three feet wide. This will give people plenty of room to walk without having to worry about slipping.
Use Salt
Another way to keep your entranceways safe is to use salt. You can either spread it yourself or hire someone to do it for you. Just be sure to use the right type of salt for the job. Rock salt is the most common type of salt used for de-icing, but it can damage concrete and other surfaces.
Instead, opt for calcium chloride or magnesium chloride. These types of salts are less likely to damage your property and more effective at melting ice. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using salt on your property.
You don’t want to use too much or too little. You can either purchase salt from your local hardware store, or you can make your own by mixing one part baking soda with two parts table salt.
Once you’ve made your mixture, spread it liberally on your entranceways and sidewalks. Be sure to check the forecast before doing this so that you can be prepared for any rain or melting that might occur.
Keep Your Gutters Clean
Gutters that are clogged with leaves and debris can cause ice to form on your roof. When this happens, the ice can fall and injure people who are walking below. To avoid this, be sure to keep your gutters clean and clear of debris.
You’ll also want to make sure that they’re properly draining so that water doesn’t pool on your roof. Cleaning your gutters is a job that many property owners put off, but it’s a job that needs to be done regularly.
If your gutters are clogged, water will back up and pool on your roof. This can cause the roof to freeze and even collapse. To clean your gutters, you’ll need a ladder, a garden hose, and some gloves.
Begin by climbing up the ladder and inspecting your gutters for any clogs. If you see any clogs, use the hose to dislodge them. Be careful not to get too close to the edge of the roof. Once the gutters are clear, use the hose to rinse them out. Make sure to get all of the debris out of the gutters so that they can function properly.
Remove Ice Regularly
Another way to keep your entranceways safe is to remove ice regularly. This means chipping away at the ice and shoveling it off of your sidewalks and driveways. You’ll also want to be sure to use salt or sand on the ice so that people don’t slip and fall.
Be sure to check the forecast before doing this so that you can be prepared for any rain or melting that might occur. If there’s any chance that the ice will refreeze, be sure to use salt or sand so that people don’t slip and fall.
Keep Your Floors Dry
One of the best ways to prevent slips and falls is to keep your floors dry. This means wiping up any spills that occur and mopping your floors on a regular basis. You’ll also want to make sure that you have mats or rugs in all of the high-traffic areas of your business.
These will help to absorb any moisture that’s tracked in from outside. Be sure to check the mats or rugs regularly to make sure that they’re not becoming too wet. If they are, replace them with new ones. Try to keep your business as clean and dry as possible during the winter months.
By following these simple tips, you can keep your entranceways safe and free of hazards this winter. Just be sure to have a plan in place and be familiar with your local ordinances. With a little bit of preparation, you can avoid costly accidents and injuries.
Don’t let the snow and ice take you by surprise. Be prepared by following these simple tips. With a little bit of effort, you can keep your entranceways safe and free of hazards. So what are you waiting for? Get started today!
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