Keeping your business safe is vital, whether you’re working in an office, a warehouse, or otherwise. However, that commitment to safety shouldn’t end as soon as your employees are outside that front door. If you also own, lease, or are otherwise responsible for the property surrounding the building, especially the exterior, then you should be just as mindful of health and safety there. Here are a few ways you can make those areas a little safer.
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Be mindful of trees
Trees might sound a little too stationary to be doing too much harm, but if you don’t take care of them, then you should prepare for an accident or two along the way. Typically, this is the result of branches that are getting too big and too heavy, making them more likely to snap off in windy weather, which can cause serious issues. The leaves and other debris can become a slipping hazard, especially in the rain, too. An arborist can help you take care of your greenery better.
Mind your walkways
Slips, trips, and falls are still some of the most common sources of injury, and they can happen outside the building, too. This is especially true if there’s any buildup of grime or dirt, whether it’s due to trees and greenery, or due to materials used on the job. Either way, a block paving cleaner machine can be a major help. Beyond cleaning walkways, you should check them for any damage, unevenness, or other problems that you can fix, too.
Good lighting is vital
Visibility is one of the most important safety factors of any space in or outside the workplace. Not only can it help to reduce the risk of slips, trips, and falls by helping people see where they’re going, but it is a security factor as well. People are safer where it’s brightly lit, and where any potential criminal can be seen. Invest in good lighting for the exterior of your property.
Promoting vehicle safety
If your workplace’s exterior includes any car parks or driveways, then you should make sure that they’re doing their part to help people navigate those spaces more easily. This can include, for instance, setting up bollards or barriers to stop cars from getting into pedestrian areas. You should make sure that any roads and parking spaces are clearly marked, and that those marks aren’t allowed to fade away.
Enhancing Commercial Vehicle Safety
In managing the safety of your outdoor workspace, ensuring the security and operational efficiency of commercial vehicles is paramount. Introducing strict protocols for vehicle maintenance and driver training can significantly reduce risks. For instance, regularly scheduled checks and adherence to safety guidelines are essential. In the event of an incident, having a relationship with an expert trucking consultant can be crucial. They can offer defence strategies and insights as Expert Witnesses, providing invaluable support in litigation concerning truck crashes or other vehicle-related accidents. This approach not only mitigates risk but also prepares your business for potential legal challenges.
Be extra mindful in the winter
With the change of the seasons come new dangers. Fall can be dangerous with its high winds and falling leaves, but winter is the real danger. Check for the prospect of ice each and every day, and consider investing in some grit that you can use to salt the walkways and any car parks or roads on your property to greatly reduce the chances of accidents.
Wherever your employees go while on the clock, you should make sure you consider what you can do to make it safer. This goes for the exterior just as much as any other part.
This is a contributed post.