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Spring into safety

Check all walking surfaces and storage areas.

After an unusually rough winter consisting of bitter cold and heavy, repeated snowfalls, many of us are finally starting to open those windows and breath in the spring air. With that fresh air, many of us are inspired to do some spring cleaning—to shake off any remnants of that nasty winter and get ready for warmer weather. This holds true for our homes and businesses, as well. For many businesses, including building material dealers, spring is an ideal time to tidy up and tackle items on the to-do list that may have been put on hold during winter’s harshest months.

While spring cleaning is important for comfort, it’s also critical to safety. For a building material dealer, spring cleaning can prevent accidents for employees and guests like slips and falls, as well as fires.

One of the best places to start a spring cleaning effort for a building material dealer, is to survey the property inside and out. Inspect the yard, painting, roofs and windows. Make sure Old Man Winter didn’t leave a mark that could endanger customers, employees or the property itself. Make sure to check all walking surfaces, stairs, storage lofts and ladders and lighting to confirm they withstood the harshness of the elements these last few months.

Specifically, consider the following checklist when spring cleaning a yard or retail operation:

Repair any yard surfaces that were damaged by winter weather, including potholes and uneven surfaces.

·      Repair any yard surfaces that were damaged by winter weather, including potholes and uneven surfaces. Neaten up inventory into safe displays and be sure to throw out any scrap, debris or loose banding.

·      Check stairs for damage and loose railings. Repair any damage and remove debris to prevent slips and falls.

·      Inspect raised storage areas to be sure they do not exceed posted loads and the required 42” guard rails with midrails and toeboards are in place. Make sure low clearance signs are visible where necessary.

·      Check ladders to be sure they are in good shape for use for the next season and train employees on how to use them properly.

Check ladders to be sure they are in good shape for use for the next season

·      Inspect all facility lighting to make sure areas are properly lit for safety.

·      In parking areas and loading zones, touchup paint lines where necessary.

·      Check roofs and skylights for damage and repair to prevent leaks or other damage.

·      Schedule inspections for the HVAC system to ensure it is in good working order.

Again, spring is the perfect time to inspect your facility and keeping a facility in good shape is an investment in the future of your business. Just remember, controlling a business’ risk is not a one-person job. It requires engagement from employees at all levels of the organization, so set the example and train and remind employees to keep risk management top of mind.

For more information on these practices, contact Pennsylvania Lumbermens Mutual Insurance Company at 800-752-1895. With 100 years of experience serving the wood niche, we know your business and how to keep it running smoothly for years to come.

 

 

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