Preparing your business for winter
The roof
Snow removal doesn't just stop at your property. You also need to think about roofs and other structures. Ideally, let a recognized professional with the appropriate equipment perform the snow removal task in order to keep your roof and its waterproofing membrane in good condition. The dangers of heavy snow or ice accumulation are manifold. For example, a collapse or collapse could be looming over your building.
Some simple habits to put in place by you or your employees:
Watch for buildup on the roof, balconies and landings to respond quickly. Make sure that no large icicles form around the edge of the roof.
If, despite your best efforts, you notice a thick white carpet or ice on your structures, temporarily prohibit the parking of vehicles in the affected area and the passage of pedestrians. Place posters warning of the risk of snow or ice fall.
Consider having a permanent snow guard installed near the roof overhangs if the situation occurs annually.
The entrees
Maintain access to your building to eliminate the risk of your employees and customers falling. Snow removal from sidewalks and spreading sand or salt goes without saying. It is, however, good to remember this.
Two inexpensive ways to limit the danger in the accesses:
Install non-slip covers on the stairs.
Add rugs to entryways and busy walkways.
Piping
Did you know that the risk of broken pipes increases during the cold season? Special care should be taken, as a tiny crack in a pipe can cause water damage, and therefore damage to the building if you do not act quickly.
To prevent freezing:
Maintain sufficient heat at all times in all rooms, and regularly maintain heaters and appliances.
Close the water inlet during a prolonged absence and mandate a person to come to the workplace on a daily basis.
Gutters and downspouts
Draining sloped roofs is essential to keep water away from a building. However, when leaves, tree fruit, and other debris collect in gutters and downspouts, they decrease or even prevent the flow of water. With frost adding to the equation in winter, the risk of eaves infiltration increases due to the retained water.
Two precautions to take for optimal drainage at all times:
Inspect and clean these facilities in the fall and spring. Take the opportunity to check if the water is stagnant in certain places. This is a sign of insufficient slope caused by sagging gutters.
Consider fitting your gutters with a domed screen or other suitable device to reduce the build-up of debris.
Company vehicles
Winter conditions require some adaptation on the part of drivers. Ice makes roads slippery and unpredictable, while snow and wind reduce visibility.
Some tips for staying safe on the road:
Regularly check the tire pressure of your vehicles to ensure that it remains adequate. This will result in better braking and reduced fuel consumption.
Plan more time for your trips and notify your customer of any delays if they occur.
Consult the Québec 511 site or mobile application to find out about the condition of the road network. You will then be able to find a new route if necessary.
Always keep a snow brush, scraper, shovel, windshield washer, booster cables and non-slip plates in your vehicle. These accessories will allow you to deal with the unexpected.
All of these solutions will help you spend a safer winter and save you from many unpleasant surprises. Be aware, however, that other arrangements can be made, particularly in terms of winter driving. It's your turn!
Category Companies
Preparing your business for winter
August 31, 2021
Each year, snow, ice, cold, wind and large variations in temperature cause a great deal of damage and injury. There are a multitude of ways to prevent losses. Here is a little tour of the owner to properly prepare your business for winter risks.
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