COVER STORY
THERE COULD BE
FREEZING CONDITIONS (AND TROUBLE) AHEAD
Vicky Lopez, Director at De-ice, discusses what you need to consider to keep your premises safe and secure against claims this winter.
November saw the temperatures tumble and if you have read some of the recent headlines, we could be set for some pretty cold weather ahead, this will undoubtedly spell trouble for some.
The UK hasn't seen a great deal of snow and ice over the last few winters, but no one can predict exactly how it will all pan out this year. From snow and ice to high winds and flooding, we all have to take responsibility and to be prepared for every eventuality.
We advise that businesses (and their FM partners) assess the risks posed by ice, frost and snow in the same way that they would all other workplace risks, and then implement appropriate systems and controls. The unpredictability of our climate creates constant doubt and uncertainty, which - in turn - makes it crucial to plan ahead; a message we reinforce time and again.
Can you afford a potential claim? If you or your company own, rent or manage a property,
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do you know what your obligations are in respect of dealing with extreme winter weather? Are you aware of what could happen if someone slipped and fell on your premises? What if loose debris fell and injured a worker or visitor during high winds and storms?
The Occupiers Liability Act 1957 states that occupiers have a legal duty to take reasonable care to see that visitors are safe whilst using their premises. This extends to ensuring paths, car parks and other areas are cleared of ice and snow.
The Health & Safety at Work Act 1974 requires employers to ensure the health and safety of all employees and anyone affected by their work, so far as is reasonably practicable. This includes taking steps to control slips and trip risks.
Claims can range from a few thousand to hundreds of thousands of pounds, depending on the severity of the injuries and the impact on the claimant’s work and daily living. According to Hospital Episode Statistics for England
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