Protect your customers and your business with these safety tips!

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, “slips, trips and falls make up a majority of general industry accidents,” accounting for approximately 12,000 accidental deaths every year. Winter is underway, but it’s not too late for preventative measures!

Invest in non-slip floor mats and wet floor signs.

These small purchases can be the best investment a business owner can make for the winter season. Floor mats will absorb most of the snow and water tracked into your building by customers, and the wet floor signs will alert everyone to watch their step.

Make winter tools accessible.

Keep shovels and a small bucket of salt next to each entrance. This will enable any employee to address the conditions of your sidewalks as the weather changes throughout the day. Having a mop and bucket accessible on the inside can also ensure that your floors will stay clean and dry.

Don’t forget to look up.

Everyone knows about the liability risks associated with icy steps, but many overlook the dangers that could be forming on their roofs. Falling icicles can prove extremely dangerous to your property and customers, and ice dams can be devastating to your building’s infrastructure.  As part of your winter maintenance routine, be sure to remove snow off your roof after every storm.

Identify areas prone to winter hazards.

The best way to prevent liability situations is to take precautionary measures. As the person who knows your business best, anticipate those areas that become hazardous in the winter season. Identify and address places where ice quickly forms or where snow accumulation can make elevation changes (steps and ramps) hard to see.

Despite the dangers associated with colder weather, your customers trust in you to keep your buildings safe and operational if your doors are open for business. Live Assured with Preferred Mutual Insurance Company and call your independent agent today to discuss your policy!