Winter weather can be unpredictable, and business property owners must be prepared for the snow and ice that accompany it. Without proper planning, snowstorms can create safety hazards and business disruptions that impact employees, customers, and daily activities. To avoid these pitfalls, it’s essential to take a proactive approach to snow management. By staying ahead of snow and ice, business owners can handle winter storms with confidence and keep their operations running smoothly.
In this article, we’ll discuss 5 key steps that business property owners can take to minimize safety hazards and ensure that their property remains accessible during even the roughest winter weather:
5 Commercial Property Essentials for Winter Weather
Pre-Storm Planning
Business owners need to have a solid pre-storm plan in place long before snow is forecast. The first step is to prioritize snow removal from high-traffic areas, including walkways, parking lots, and entryways, as well as areas that require extra attention, such as ramps, stairways, and areas where ice tends to form. It’s important to work with your commercial snow removal contractor ahead of time to develop an effective winter management plan that emphasizes speed and efficiency in order to keep the property safe.
Equipment and Materials
Business property owners should always stock essential snow removal equipment and materials to ensure the premises remain safe. Commercial-grade snow shovels are important to clear the vital areas of the property at the very least and ensure that business isn’t disrupted. Ice melt or salt should also always be on hand to manage icy surfaces. Liquid deicers are another option to keep in stock and are incredibly effective when used to pre-treat surfaces.
Safety Measures
The number one priority for businesses during winter is ensuring the safety of anyone who sets foot on the property. Taking extra precautionary measures can go a long way toward improving safety during winter. Clearly marking all walkways and parking areas using cones, flags, or temporary signs can direct people along the safest routes or warn of hazardous areas prone to ice buildup. Proper lighting is also crucial during snowstorms, so take steps to ensure that all exterior lights are functioning properly and provide enough light for pedestrians and drivers to navigate safely.
Commercial Snow Removal Services
Professional snow removal services are vital for keeping large business properties clear of snow and ice during winter storms. Business owners should review their contracts with snow removal providers well before winter to ensure they have reliable services in place. All of the details of the contract should be clearly laid out, including the scope of services, how much snow accumulation will trigger removal services, and what types of vehicles and equipment are needed.
Ongoing Maintenance
Even after the initial snow removal has been completed, there may still be work needed to keep the property safe. Business owners should routinely inspect the property for ice buildup, particularly near downspouts, shaded areas, and low spots in the property. Icy hazards can linger for weeks if not addressed properly, creating a much bigger chance of accidents. Likewise, cleared snow that is piled up on the property can also create hazards if not placed in a safe area. If there’s not a suitable area on the property to leave all of the cleared snow, it may be best to schedule snow hauling in order to avoid unnecessary risks.
Ensure That Your Denver Business or Commercial Property Is Prepared for Winter Hazards with Snow Management Services
For almost 30 years, SMS has been a trusted commercial snow removal contractor for businesses and commercial properties throughout the Denver metro area. We work with our customers to develop a winter service plan tailored to their specific needs and the unique challenges that each property brings. We offer the full list of commercial snow removal services, including snow plowing, sidewalk management, de-icing, and snow hauling services. Our team is committed to 24/7 support and rapid response times during even the roughest winter weather in order to keep your property clear and safe.
To see how SMS can help your Denver-area business or commercial property, give us a call today at (303) 750-8867 or get in touch with us online to get started.