How To Winter Proof The Work Place And Stay Safe

After most of the UK received snow last week, I thought it would be important for employers to know how to winter-proof the office. This is important in order to limit any slips and falls and to ensure that all staff are as comfortable as possible.

Here are six ways that you can winter-proof the workplace:

1. Use Wet Floor Signs

If wet floor signs are used throughout the office, then slips and falls will less likely take place as staff will take more caution when they’re walking.

A sign will increase awareness of the condition of the floor, making people extra careful on how to tread along the office floor.

It is important that the wet spots are cleared straight away to avoid any nasty accidents and to avoid a surprise ‘Accident at Work Claim’.

Injuries in the workplace can put a strain on the relationship between employees and the management and might create an image of the company that is uncaring and does not put the welfare of its employees a priority.  It could also be a considerable cost for the company that has to pay for damages.  But, more than the money, what’s important is the company’s relationship with its employees.

2. Make It Known Which Entrance To Use

If your office, or workspace, has more than one entrance, then it is important to clear one entrance completely of leaves and ice, and ensure that it is the only entrance that gets used.

Make this obvious by putting up arrows and signs across other doors. This will prevent people from using entrances that haven’t been cleared, therefore reducing the risk of a fall. Having a designated entrance and exit will also increase the security in the workplace aside from its safety. Assigning a specific entrance and exit will lessen the chances of people bumping into each other and converging in one place for chitchat.

3. Set The Temperature

While there are no employee rights to the temperature of an office, the Approved Code of Practice states that the minimum temperature should be 16 degrees Celsius.

However, it is important that the employer checks to make sure that everyone is at a comfortable temperature to improve productivity throughout the day.

This temperature is generally ideal for most people, but advising them to bring an extra jacket would be best for those who are quite sensitive to the cold.

4. Provide Workers With Correct Equipment

If staff are working outside, then it is important that the correct equipment and uniform is provided to make each member of staff feel as comfortable as they possibly can in the cold weather.

If you don’t have a uniform suited towards the cold weather and snow, perhaps suggest to staff that they are able to wear their own clothes/jumpers to the office, within reason. This will save you splashing the cash on a whole new winter uniform.

5. Make Sure The Roof Is In Good Condition

If the office roof is not well maintained, the heat can easily escape through the roof. Ask a trustworthy roofing company if they could assess the office roof and make sure there are no missing roof tiles. It will be a good idea to ask the roofing company if there is roof insulation too. If the roofing company tells you the roof needs a roof repair it might be a good idea to get quotes from a few different companies before you make your decision.

6. Put Mats Around The Office

The ice from outdoors will probably get dragged through the office from the bottom of an employee’s shoe, which can cause puddles.

Placing mats around entrances can soak up the water that is about to get dragged through and encourages staff to wipe their feet before entering. Be sure to get quality mats that could provide the best solution for your office. Mats made from high-grade rubber have an excellent anti-slip property. If you wish to get quality mats for your workplace, check out Mats Direct. They have a range of entrance mats intended for high-traffic areas like the entrances of buildings and offices.  Their entrance mats are highly durable, easy to clean and will be serviced by efficient personnel. Additionally, these mats will also protect the surface of your granite or marble floors.