Winter-Ready: Essential Risk Management Strategies for Business Continuity

Proactive preparation is key. Identifying risks to your property and implementing robust measures to protect against harsh weather will not only safeguard staff and customers but also help reduce liability claims.

Building resilience

Preparation is essential to making your business premises resilient during the colder months. But how do you determine what needs protection and how to best prepare?

Identify the risks

Wet weather increases the likelihood of slips, trips, and falls, particularly in high-risk areas such as car parks, steps, ramps, and walkways—risks that are further exacerbated by darker mornings and evenings. As winter sets in, freezing temperatures and icy conditions add to these challenges, creating both safety hazards and potential structural issues.

Prepare for the risks

Outdoor areas need careful planning to handle darker, frostier days. This includes everything from installing effective heating solutions to reinforcing structures against potential flooding and snow accumulation. Indoors, regular inspections of ventilation, temperature control, and emergency procedures contribute to a safe and comfortable environment.

Mitigating Risks and Ensuring Business Continuity

To prepare for winter, consider not only health hazards like the flu or COVID but also the structural and operational integrity of your premises. Here's a breakdown of key areas to focus on:

Outdoor Preparations:

• Lighting: Improve visibility during shorter days by ensuring all outdoor areas, including car parks and pathways, are well-lit, and promptly address any faulty lights.
• Heating Solutions: Strategically place outdoor heaters in seating areas to keep both visitors and employees comfortable.
• Roof and Gutters: Clear gutters to prevent blockages and inspect roofs for loose tiles and leaks to avoid slip hazards from snow and ice.
• Pipe Insulation: Insulate water pipes to prevent freezing, which could lead to flooding if pipes burst.
• Flood Defences: Prepare for heavy rain by having flood barriers or sandbags ready for quick deployment.
• Walkway Maintenance: Regularly clear walkways of leaves, ice, and snow to prevent slips and falls. Consider applying anti-slip treatments for extra traction.
• Fencing and Signage: Check and reinforce fencing as needed, and ensure clear signage for safe paths, emergency exits, and potential hazards.

Indoor Preparations:

• Safe Working Temperatures: Ensure indoor temperatures meet the HSE's recommended minimum of 16°C to maintain a comfortable work environment².
• Heating Systems: Regularly inspect heating systems like radiators and boilers to prevent breakdowns and ensure adequate insulation.
• Ventilation: Balance warmth with proper ventilation to maintain good indoor air quality.
• Power Outage Preparedness: Ensure emergency lighting systems are functional, and that exit signs are clearly visible in case of a power loss.
• Floor Safety: Place absorbent mats at entrances to reduce the risk of slips from wet floors.
• Fire Safety Measures: Regularly check fire extinguishers, alarms, and sprinkler systems, and conduct fire drills to keep staff prepared.
• Emergency Supplies: Stock up on essentials like blankets, bottled water, and non-perishable food to be prepared for weather-related disruptions.

Final thoughts

By adopting a proactive approach to workplace safety, businesses can protect their staff and customers, reduce the risk of claims, and ensure continuity throughout the colder months.

To speak to a member of the Gallagher Risk Management team about our range of solutions or any of the topics in this article, call 0800 138 7538 today.