Winter weather can bring cold weather hazards. When snow accumulates on your commercial property, safely removing it must be your priority. Clearing sidewalks, stairways, and parking lots are essential for the safety of your customers and employees. However, clearing it away when the snow piles up is also vital to the structural integrity of the structures on your commercial property.
At first, clearing newly fallen snow may be a quick and easy process, but as the season progresses and snow accumulates, adding ice makes for slippery surfaces and frozen snow piles. Suddenly, moving the snow piles off your property becomes more complicated and dangerous.
Tips For Removing Snow From Your Commercial Property Successfully
Attempting to remove large amounts of snow and ice from your property without the proper tools and planning can result in Before you grab your snow blowers and shovels, consider these tips for removing snow from your commercial property safely and successfully.
1) Know Your State And Local Snow Removal Ordinances
States and cities have ordinances governing snow accumulation and commercial property removal. Some rules may include snow mound height limits, how to move snow, and where snow mounds can be located on your commercial property.
2) Stay Aware Of Your Surroundings
Keep up with where objects are located on your property when snow falls. Some vehicles, dumpsters, parking blocks, and equipment may be buried under heavy snow, and you don't want to plow into them. When managing snow and ice on your commercial property, always be aware of your surroundings.
3) Designate A Safe Area For Mounding Snow
Locate a safe area to build snow mounds on your commercial property before a snowstorm arrives. Be sure this space is a safe distance away from structures and equipment and that it doesn't impede traffic. Be prepared to have backup areas designated to accommodate extra snow you may have to move. Consider where the water from melting snow and ice will flow on your property.
4) Protect Your Business With Insurance
Winter weather can wreak havoc on your commercial property. Wind, snow, and ice can damage structures, impede traffic, and create unsafe conditions for your employees and customers. Ensure that your commercial insurance policy protects your company if damage occurs from winter storms.
5) Prepare For Snow Storms And Snow Removal In Advance
While you may never know when the next big snowstorm will hit, you can be prepared for the event by having a plan in advance. Your winter storm plan can include having adequate supplies like backup shovels, ice-control products, and gas for snowblowers. Include your snowstorm plan in your commercial emergency response strategy to ensure your employees are trained and ready to help you manage snowfall and minimize hazards.
For many companies, it is a good idea to contact a professional commercial snow removal service for consultation on your property's best snow removal practices.