Implementing a safety plan can reduce your insurance cost and exposure to uninsurable
loss. Larger businesses should have a safety manual.
Records — document the processes of safety plan implementation. Utilize checklists to expedite processes, maintain accurate records, and keep information accessible.
Inspections — regular inspections will ensure timely maintenance and repairs
Accident Reports — each incident needs to be documented with a description of the accident, persons present, and conditions surrounding the accident. Update the records as necessary.
Liabilities on Your Premises
Even informal record keeping of inspections can be valuable in case we need to defend you in a lawsuit as the result of an accident that causes an injury. Small businesses need a safety plan. Larger operations need a safety manual.
• Ensure outside walkways are in good condition and free of debris
• Minimize the possibility of slip-and-falls due to icy conditions
• Keep driveways in good condition to avoid damage to vehicles
• Keep stairs clear and in good repair
• Ensure all carpets are fastened and rugs have non-slip under-padding
• Ensure stair railings are present and in good repair
• Provide non-slip mats or coating for bathroom and shower areas
• Ensure sinks and toilets are in good repair
• Provide grips or support bars in bath and shower areas
Fire
Always call your fire department to ensure a fire is extinguished; unseen embers can reignite hours later. If used within 30 to 90 seconds, fire extinguishers are your first line of defense against a fire; keep them well maintained and easily accessible. Train staff on fire safety, how to react quickly and to use extinguishers effectively. Fire alarms should sound locally and with your local fire department.
• Provide keys to any gates to your local fire department
• Ensure furnace and electrical rooms are clear
• Keep combustible materials like boxes, rags, and paper to a minimum for interior spaces
• Keep the building exterior clear of combustibles
• Keep paints and solvents in a metal cupboard
• Cutback dry vegetation
• Ensure chimneys are in clean and good condition
• Install propane and wood stoves according to code
Natural Hazards
Snow Removal
- Remove weak branches and trees
- Hire an expert for ice and snow removal on a roof; roof damage and injuries occur easily
- Keep driveways clear for emergency vehicles
Ice Dams
- For less melting and refreezing keep attics well ventilated
- Keep attic floors well insulated to minimize heat rising from interior spaces
- Install electric heating cables on the roof and in downspouts
- Install a water repellent membrane under your roof covering
Hurricanes
- Install storm shutters for the most effective protection
- Cover windows with a protective film that will prevent shattering
- Install doors with three or more hinges
- Use dead-bolts with a bolt at least 2.5-cm long
- Anchor door frames securely to the building
- Secure double doors with head and foot bolts
- Reinforce garage doors with wood, metal
stiffeners, or a retrofit kit, especially for doors over 8-feet wide
Water Pipes
- Insulate exposed pipes with sleeves or wrapping
- Outside pipes should be equipped with a hydrant-style faucet that extends from the interior of the house or an inside shutoff valve
- Caulk cracks and holes in outside walls and foundations near pipes
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