Snow-Proofing Tips for the Home and Workplace
It is important to make sure employees, family and friends are safe from the hazards of winter weather. To do this it is imperative to winter-proof a home or office and it is a good idea to plan ahead for any anticipated hazards so that when bad weather hits, there will be fewer problems.
Below are some ideas on how to make sure the home and workplace are safe for when winter weather arrives.
Winter-Proofing the Home
- Disconnect Hoses
Before any winter weather hits, be sure and disconnect any hoses or exterior faucets. Most have built in protection against freezing weather, but need to be disconnected in order for the protection to work.
- Insulate Pipes
If there are any bare water pipes in the crawl space, basement, or attic of the home, before winter is an optimal time to insulate the pipes. This will help prevent freezing that could cause the pipes to burst. Insulation also keeps water warmer in the hot water lines.
- Plug Drafts
If cold air can be felt rushing through the house around spaces that should be sealed permanently, caulk them closed for the winter with a product that is easy to remove once the weather gets nicer.
- Exterior Structure
Ideally, it is important that water not be able to get behind siding or stucco, meaning, the exterior structure needs to be able to repel water. If a bit of water does get in, be sure that water vapor is able to escape.
In order to ensure that this happens clear any snow away from doors and windows that could melt and come in the house. Also, remove any ice dams that form on the roof. This can be accomplished by removing them with a push broom or roof rake. Also, keep snow away from air vents that brings air into the hot water tank or furnace of the home.
- Your Vehicle
No, this isn’t your home, but it is just as important. Many people don’t think about this until they are stuck in a ditch. Studdable tires are the first thing that you should make sure you have. They’re designed to handle winter weather conditions. The next thing to check is your wiper fluid. You want de-icing windshield fluid. The final thing you need to add to your vehicle is an emergency kit. Your kit should include a blanket, gloves, a hat, snacks, and enough water to last a few days.
Winterizing a Business
- Protect the Building
Take steps before the weather sets in to protect the business facility by identifying areas that may be vulnerable to damage. Make sure the roof is being maintained and that all debris is cleared from the downspouts and gutters. Inspect for any water leaks, ponding water, cracked concrete, and be sure to prepare the HVAC unit for winter by getting it regularly maintained. It is also important to make sure that all pipes and shut off valves are clearly marked so that they can be easily located if a pipe were to burst.
- Keep Sidewalks and Parking Lots Clear
Make sure all pathways to the building and around the building, as well as the parking lot, are cleared of snow, so as to not create ice where employees could fall and get injured. Employing a company to clear off snow when it hits is the best bet for this. Be sure to take out a commercial snow removal contract with a reputable company to have this system in place before winter hits.
- Provide Extra Traction
Identify any locations that may be prone to becoming slippery or even difficult to navigate and apply tread tape to the area, for an extra layer of traction protection. This type of tape is perfect for areas that easily get covered with ice and the tape can also be applied to doorways, ramps, stairs, and handrails. As was also stated previously, contracting with a commercial snow removal company will help to keep icy areas at bay.
- Emphasize Low Lit Areas
Always highlight items, areas, and machinery that become difficult to navigate in low light conditions. Employers should outline door entries, egress pathways, low clearance ceilings, and other areas of importance by using reflective tape and glow in the dark tape.
- Signage
It is important to invest in visible signage for a business. This will alert any employees and personnel that hazards may be present. Purchasing durable premade labels and signs for icy conditions can help prevent trips, slips and falls, especially in areas that freeze over easily. Applying signs to doors, parking lots, and floors help to alleviate any unnecessary injuries.
