We’re getting our first significant taste of snow and ice this winter this week, which means that many businesses are realizing that their plan of shoveling the parking lot on their own is not a feasible option. Even an inch of snow or a glazing of ice can disrupt your business operations and pose safety risks to employees and customers. For businesses, having a snow and ice management plan in place is not just a convenience—it’s a necessity. How can you make your snow and ice management plan?
Assess Your Property
The first step in creating a snow and ice management plan is to thoroughly evaluate your property. Identify areas that are most vulnerable to snow and ice accumulation or injuries, including:
- Entrances and Exits: Ensure safe access for employees and customers
- Parking Lots: Focus on keeping lots clear to prevent accidents and ensure that employees and customers can safely arrive at your doors
- Walkways and Sidewalks: Maintain compliance with local ordinances and mitigate the risk of slip and fall accidents
- Loading Docks: Ensure your loading dock remains functional for deliveries overnight or when you are not there
Additionally, it’s a good idea to take note of any slopes, drainage issues, or areas prone to excessive ice buildup. Letting our team know about these problems ahead of time will ensure that we properly address them.
Know Your Priorities
Every part of your property does not require the same level of attention. For example, you might need the parking lot and sidewalks clear but the outdoor patio is closed, so you don’t need to worry about salting and shoveling it. Identify priority areas that need immediate clearing after a snowstorm, such as:
- Emergency exits
- Main customer entryways
- Handicapped-accessible ramps
- High-traffic walkways
By determining these priorities, you can ensure the most critical areas are cleared first.
Choose the Right Snow Removal Partner
Professional snow removal services, like JFC Grounds Maintenance, can handle the heavy lifting and technical aspects of winter weather management. When selecting a partner, look for companies with:
- Proven Experience: Ensure they have a strong track record with businesses and properties like yours
- 24/7 Availability: Winter weather can be unpredictable, so round-the-clock service is essential
- Comprehensive Services: Look for a provider that offers snow plowing, salting, and post-storm cleanup
- Modern Equipment: Ensure they use heavy-duty, reliable machinery to handle snow and ice efficiently
Choosing the wrong partner can mean unreliable service or needing to get a head start yourself before they are able to arrive at your property.
Develop a Communication Plan and Train Your Staff
Effective communication is critical during snow and ice events. Establish a clear protocol for:
- Monitoring Weather: Assign someone to keep an eye on forecasts and alerts
- Notifying Employees: Share updates about property conditions and safe access
- Train Your Staff: Make sure that your employees understand your winter weather safety policies and understand how to report any hazardous conditions
Using a variety of tools like email, text alerts, or internal messaging apps can streamline communication and ensure everyone is on the same page. Additionally, consider adding winter weather policies into your employee handbook so that everyone can easily access them.
Hire the Professionals for Your Snow and Ice Management Needs
Ready to set up your winter snow removal services? Give JFC Grounds Maintenance a call at (410) 655-2887.