Autumn Risk Management
What key risks could you and your business face during the autumn? And how can you prepare for the potential challenges of the season? From dangerous driving conditions caused by the weather to modifying outdoor areas to make them as safe as possible, here are some ways to protect your business from the elements this season.
Autumn weather: As the weather starts to turn, higher winds and a greater risk of rain damage could impact a business’s property, contents, production processes, and ability to trade. Assessing the risks to your property may help you prepare for any bad weather, including storms or floods.
Building enclosures, balconies, terraces, and outside heating: Cooler nights and the need to protect people from wet weather lead businesses to modify their outdoor areas. Managing this change is important. Consider changing layouts, adding enclosures, decorative elements, heaters, lighting, or making other arrangements to reduce seasonal risks.
Engineering inspection: Ensuring your equipment is safe and ready is essential. Don’t rely on your statutory inspection regime. Competent, independent people should carry out your inspections.
Escapeof water: When the weather starts to cool down, many of us use our heating systems more often, which could uncover potential issues. Any building with plumbing, waste systems, heating systems, cooling systems, or fixed water installations is at risk of damage from water escaping. Be sure to inspect your systems and address any potential issues.
Road traffic collisions: Autumn brings fallen leaves, colder weather, rain, lower sun, frosts, and more extended periods of darkness – all of which can impact driver performance and contribute to an increase in road traffic collisions. Be alert and ensure all motor vehicles are ready for the changing conditions.
Slips, trips, and falls: Wet weather and damp autumn leaves increase the risks of slips, trips, and falls inside and outside your premises. The injuries caused by slips, trips, and falls affect the individuals involved and could also mean losses for your business through customer claims, employee absence, and bad publicity. Ensure your facility’s pathways are clear and well-maintained.