Proper snow removal protects your commercial property. If your employees are in charge of snow removal, make sure they use safe snow removal techniques to avoid injuries this winter.
Assess Your Needs
Every property has different snow removal needs, so perform an assessment before winter weather strikes. Make a list of areas that may be prone to snow buildup like trees or roofs, and plan how and when you’ll remove snow from your property.
Use the assessment results to purchase the right snow removal equipment for your crew, too. If you operate a retail business with winter products or equipment, consider Snow Ski Dealer Insurance to understand storefront risks related to winter operations.
Mark Obstacles
Curbs, sidewalks and speed bumps present tripping hazards to your snow removal crew. Place brightly colored stakes around these and other obstacles so your employees clearly see the areas they must avoid.
Use the Right Equipment
Whether your employees are removing snow buildup from the roof or sidewalks, they need to use the right equipment. Provide snow blowers or plows to remove large piles of snow.
Roof brushes should have extendable handles, and shovels should match the employee’s height and be easy to manage.
Maintain Tools
When your employees use snow removal tools that function properly, you reduce accidents. Schedule an equipment inspection now and make sure your snow blowers and plows are in good working order.
Inspect the shovels, picks and brushes your crew uses, and replace dull blades, thin brushes or worn handle grips.
Improve Equipment Shed Accessibility
When a storm strikes, you need to access your snow removal equipment quickly. Keep the shed entrance clear of clutter so equipment is easy to reach.
Place the shovels, blowers and plows inside the shed in a neat and orderly manner so crews can go to work immediately.
Avoid Hazardous Chemicals
Certain chemicals protect your property from ice accumulation and remove ice and snow quickly, but they can give off hazardous fumes or cause contact burns on skin. Use eco-friendly and safe products to protect your employees and property.
Follow manufacturer instructions for application and storage, and provide personal protective equipment when handling de-icing materials.
Provide Training
Every employee on the snow removal team must undergo training. Instruct them on proper equipment usage and lifting techniques to help prevent injuries as they work.
Include training on recognizing cold-stress symptoms and safe work-rest cycles during long shifts in cold conditions.
Stay Warm and Hydrated
Ensure your employees wear heavy clothing and layers that keep them warm and dry as they remove snow. Encourage regular breaks indoors to warm up and check for signs of frostbite or hypothermia.
Provide water, coffee or tea to promote adequate hydration, since workers can become dehydrated even in cold weather.
Update your Workers’ Compensation Coverage
The right safety tips reduce employee injuries during snow removal season. Also, review your insurance options and update your Workers' Compensation policy to include adequate coverage.
You may also want to review Snow insurance options for property and weather-related risks, and talk to your insurance agent to confirm coverage and reporting procedures.
Snow removal plays an important role in your commercial property maintenance plan. Follow these tips to keep your employees safe and reduce potential injuries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who should perform snow removal at a commercial property?
Designate trained employees or hire experienced contractors and make sure responsibilities are clearly documented.
How often should equipment be inspected?
Inspect tools and machinery before the season and perform quick checks during the season after heavy use or storms.
What personal protective equipment is recommended?
Provide insulated gloves, waterproof boots with good traction, layered clothing, and eye protection as needed for chemical handling.
How can I prevent slips and falls on sidewalks and entryways?
Clear snow promptly, use appropriate de-icing products safely, mark hazards, and place warning signage during operations.