smallbusiness.co.uk: Helping your business think big

If you own a small business, it’s time to order the snow shovels and prepare for the impact of Jack Frost this winter. Every year, companies are caught out by harsh weather conditions, so don’t fall victim to plummeting temperatures.

Here are 5 winter safety checks every company should follow:

1. Check the plumbing

Icy temperatures can cause water pipes to burst, so it’s wise to check the plumbing. Small dents can cause major leakages, which is why it’s good to call in a professional. It’s much better to have minor problems sorted quickly than for water to spring out and cause damage to property. Insulating all water pipes with lagging might stop them from freezing and should reduce the risk of a disaster.

2. Repair the heating

Before winter sets in be sure to test the heating to make sure it’s still working. Have all boilers checked by an engineer on the Gas Safe Register and ensure any problems get fixed. The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 states that all employers need to provide a safe working environment so don’t let your employees freeze.

3. Carry out a risk assessment

Winter can be a dangerous time of year, so make sure you carry out a thorough risk assessment of your premises. Identify any potential health and safety hazards and repair any problems before the nippy months. Wind, rain and snow can cause loose roof tiles and rickety fences to blow down, so always look round your property with winter in mind. Look out for uneven ground that might flood during the dark months and make all the relevant fixes. You might end up with a lawsuit on your hands if you don’t make sure your workplace is up to scratch.

4. Check the cupboards for winter essentials

The weather can change in a second, so make sure you’ve stocked up on winter essentials. A grit spreader is a must-have and a snow plough is essential. De-icing salt will also stop the car park from becoming an ice rink and safety signs will warn employees and visitors of potential risks. The law states that employees have a right to know about any hazards, so make sure your workers are safe.

5. Make sure all insurance policies are up to date

Whether you’ve business insurance, plumbing insurance or both, it’s essential to check that all policies are up-to-date. It can be hard to stay on top of bills and paperwork; however, you’ll definitely need insurance throughout the winter months – just in case. There’s nothing worse than finding you’re not covered should an incident occur.

As an employer you’re required to make your workplace safe no matter what the size of your business, so don’t wait until it’s too late.

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