examination of pipes, insulation and stop taps across the premises, with careful attention to temperature and water flow, will help avoid cracks.
"All organisations must be able to demonstrate that they have done everything
reasonably possible to meet their duty of care and that
they have met all health and safety legislation."
KEEP ON TOP OF ROOFS A thorough check of all roofing should be made for a build-up of water, ice, or snow that could compromise the roof’s structural integrity. Gutters and downspouts should divert roof drainage away from the building’s foundation, as when these are clogged or incorrectly positioned they have little or no effect. If gutters and downspouts are not well-maintained, blockages will
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occur, and the accumulation of water will eventually cause damage.
LIGHTEN UP When the hours of darkness are increased, businesses must ensure that exterior lighting is programmed for the change so that the building, its visitors and occupants are kept safe.
SAFE ENTRY Ensure access routes and car parks are safe from the risks of ice and snow for staff, visitors and contractors working onsite. Implement a gritting and snow service for entrances, walkways and car park areas. Ideally gritting should be done prior to ice formation or it will need to work harder on an already frozen surface, leaving a degree of risk present while the salt is taking effect.
In winter, as employees and customers bring in ice and snow on their footwear, it is important to have absorbent mats in place and regularly clean entrances during the day so slip hazards from wet floors are avoided.
OUTDOORS Trees and branches should be trimmed back to avoid any impact
on roof integrity as dead trees and branches can become falling hazards during winter. Fallen leaves that become wet or have started to decay can create slip risks, hiding any hazard that may be on a path or by creating a slip risk themselves. Regular leaf removal procedures should be put in place as part of the winter maintenance plan. Clear leaves from pipes, gutters and drainage gullies as part of the leaf-clearing regime.
OUTSOURCING Creating a completely risk-free workplace is almost impossible. However, a ‘belt and braces’ approach to proactively managing the winter maintenance plan will minimise any risk to business. Identifying and tracking winter maintenance issues can be complex, especially for businesses that host vulnerable people, the elderly and those with disabilities.
Consider whether such a specialist service can be delivered in-house or if it can actually be done better by an expert third party, so any risk is mitigated as far as possible.
www.eco-ips.co.uk WINTER MAINTENANCE | 35
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