By Justin Chen, risk engineering consultant, Zurich Services Corp.
Winter is right around the corner, and with it comes freezing rain, snow and icy conditions, and at Zurich, we’re constantly communicating to agents and brokers the importance of preparing customers for the season’s weather-related risks. These conditions present businesses with increased exposure from slip, trip and fall accidents for employees as well as third parties. Slip, trip and fall accidents are one of the leading causes for missed workdays and workers' compensation cases, according to research from the U.S. Dept. of Labor Statistics. To minimize slip, trip and falls in snow and icy conditions, businesses should have procedures for proper removal in place. Additionally, having anti-slip materials (such as mats, anti-slip surfaces, etc.) near entranceways can help minimize water build-up on floors.
Winter weather also contributes to an increase in vehicle accidents. Driving slowly and more carefully can minimize some risks while driving on slippery roads. Plan to drive on main roads as opposed to back roads and side streets, since most cities and towns clear, salt, and maintain main roads better and more frequently.
Another winter hazard that can cause property damage and even business interruption would be roof collapses from snow loads. If snow builds up on a roof and a rainstorm follows, this can cause saturation of the snow and a weight increased on the roof. A sagging roof is one warning sign of a potential roof collapse. To prevent roof collapse, businesses should have an inspection of the roof after heavy snowstorms. Zurich recommends reaching out to roof contractors before, not after, the season's first snow fall; the riskiest roof season is also the busiest for contractors.
Justin Chen has served as an engineering representative at Zurich since 2007. He is a 2004 graduate of the University of Nebraska. Justin previously wrote on summer risks and answered a Q&A with AA&B on what it means to be a Gen Y in this industry.