Office safety is essential in any season. During the winter, there are different threats to consider. Some common cold-weather concerns are unsafe driving conditions, slip and fall injuries, fire, power outages, and structural stress or damage. As a business owner and potentially a commercial building owner, it is an excellent practice to be aware of the threats and have plans to mitigate them.

Here are some specific steps and advice provided by OSHA to help business owners better plan for winter weather and safety. Business owners should clear snow and ice from all walking surfaces to prevent slips and falls and spread deicer. Associates should be trained to wear the proper footwear and to take shorter steps at a slower pace during the winter.

It is recommended to communicate winter weather plans clearly to employees. Make sure employees know commute options during bad weather and how to verify modifications to work hours or shifts.

Lastly, fire is always a concern during the colder months, and there are many tips for office fire safety. Some examples are listed here. Try to keep all greenery or decorations well-watered and away from heat sources. Don’t overload electrical outlets, and make sure all heat sources are in good working order. Always have a fire evacuation plan, and consider practicing that plan throughout the year.

You can check out more tips from OSHA here. 

If you have questions about more office safety items that could benefit your firm, please call us at 877-894-3399. Here at AdvoCap Insurance Agency, Inc., we want to provide the firm with the support you need for your potential liability needs.

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