When the cold temperatures return, there are a number of new risks which present themselves. Protect your commercial property by developing your Business Continuity Plan (BCP) to cater for winter specific conditions.

Here are a few things to consider including in your BCP relating to cold temperatures:                                                                                                                            

Draught-proof your premises

Cut down on your company’s energy consumption by draught-proofing all windows, doors, floorboards, letterboxes and even keyholes. Not only is it one of the most effective ways to save energy but also helps reduce costs and therefore improve your bottom line. It will also make your employees more comfortable which means greater productivity and a happier workplace. 

Beware of slips and trips

Whenever the cold temperatures arrive, frost and snow don’t tend to follow too far behind. Ensure that your walkways and car parks are gritted or create diversions away to safer routes. Bear in mind that the risk doesn’t disappear when visitors enter your premises, hard wood floors at entrances can become very slippery too so make sure to have slip-related safety measures to hand. 

Keep a lookout for potholes

The cold winter months are the optimum time for potholes to form.[1] Make sure to stay vigilant for potholes forming on your premises to ensure the safety of any visitors to your business.  Limit the chance of potholes forming by ensuring there is sufficient drainage and tending to any cracks that you notice forming promptly. 

Check your stock

Review your stock and manufacturing processes to see if they are impacted by lower temperatures. Where possible, consider moving affected items/stock to better insulated areas to stop it from deteriorating or working inefficiently. 

Beware of frozen pipes

One of the main concerns when the temperatures plummet is ensuring your pipes don’t freeze. Hire a professional to check for any weaknesses in your plumbing that could be a risk. Insulate your pipes and water tanks to reduce the risk and ensure you keep the heating on frost protection as a minimum requirement.

Find out about Business Interruption Insurance from Towergate.

Sources:

[1] https://www.bituchem.com/do-potholes-form-in-winter-or-summer-season/