Winter weather brings safety and financial risks. A structured snow removal plan keeps your business accessible, safe, and legally protected. Your plan should:
- Assign clear responsibility for snow and ice removal.
- Outline communication with employees and contractors.
- List required tools, materials, and equipment.
- Maintain a snow and ice removal log for liability protection.
Effective Snow and Ice Management Strategies
A proactive approach minimizes risk, keeps operations running, and prevents costly claims. Outlined below are a few suggestions for how to manage snow and ice removal effectively.
Stay Ahead of Weather Conditions
- Monitor forecasts and prepare before storms hit.
- Communicate early with employees and contractors.
- Stock de-icing materials in advance.
Prioritize High-Risk Areas
- Keep entrances, walkways, and loading zones clear.
- Ensure handicap-accessible areas stay safe.
- Redirect runoff to prevent ice buildup.
Follow a Consistent Snow and Ice Removal Routine
- Remove snow promptly, especially in high-traffic areas.
- Shovel and plow parking lots and sidewalks as needed.
- Apply de-icing agents strategically.
- If using a contractor:
- Confirm they have General Liability insurance.
- Get a certificate of insurance naming you as an additional insured.
- Ensure they provide a waiver of subrogation.
Use Clear Signage and Safety Measures
- Post warning signs where ice is likely to form.
- Use heavy-duty mats at entrances to reduce tracking.
- Encourage employees and customers to report hazards.
Keep a Snow and Ice Removal Log
- Document each removal immediately.
- Logs provide legal protection in liability claims.
- Standardize logs across multiple locations.
Protect Roofs and Structures
- Monitor for heavy snow buildup to prevent damage.
- Remove icicles that could fall on pedestrians.
- Maintain heating systems to prevent frozen pipes.
Handle Incidents Properly
- If an incident occurs:
- Complete a report immediately.
- Take photos from multiple angles.
- Notify your insurance provider.
Why It Matters
A solid winter safety plan isn’t just about avoiding lawsuits, it also helps to keep your business running and customers comfortable. For food & beverage, cannabis, and other retail spaces, maintaining clear and safe walkways show you care about the customer experience. Prioritizing winter safety helps build trust and keeps people coming back, no matter the weather.
