Following the UK’s tenth storm of the 2023-24 season, Compass Group facilities management business 14forty has created a checklist to help businesses keep people, property and grounds safe from the impact of snow, flooding or strong winds.
Winter storms in the United Kingdom have historically been named in alphabetical sequence. During the current season, Storm Agnes arrived in September 2023 and Storm Jocelyn (the most recent) represents only the second occasion since 2015 when the storm tally has reached the letter ‘J’.
Already, heading into February, the country has been hit by snow, floods and wind gusts of over 90 miles an hour, with the potential of more to come. So businesses might consider how to prevent any damage and keep employees safe.
Facilities managers have a lot on their plate in the winter months, but it is often simple measures – and good planning – that help protect buildings and those who use them.
Snow and storms are now an annual reality in the UK – and businesses need to be ready for them.
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Mauro Ortelli, 14forty managing director, says: “With climate change continuing to impact weather patterns, businesses and facilities managers need to have plans in place.
“It is not only homes which are impacted by snow but also offices, factories and warehouses.
“Prompt action is key to help keep people, buildings and grounds safe.
“Snow and storms are now an annual reality in the UK – and businesses need to be ready for them. Having plans in place for all eventualities is the key.”
A methodical approach to keeping people, buildings and grounds safe is required and 14forty suggests implementing the following measures:
Prepare the landscape
Keeping roads and pedestrian pathways clear and safe to use is a priority, so identify your key access areas in advance and have a ‘snow plan’ in place. It’s important to brief the team charged with clearing snow. When shovelling, for instance, store snow out of the way of pedestrians and vehicles to avoid anyone slipping on ice that forms. To protect the grass beneath, try to shovel snow off grassy areas as well, and into bays that can be picked up by a snowplough. Remember that leaves as well as ice are slip hazards. Grit key areas, such as pathways, access roads and car parks, in advance.
Use mats when stepping inside
Employees bringing snow into the building can also be a hazard. Keep indoor rooms clean and dry by adding rubberised mats to each outside doorway. Encourage visitors to wipe their feet before stepping inside so any mud and slush is removed and not spread around. This eliminates slipping hazards and keeps flooring clean for longer.
Check the insulation and plumbing
A well-insulated building will ensure employees can still come to work in wintry weather – while saving money on energy bills. Stop pipes from freezing by adding sleeves, heat tape, or heat cables, especially to those in low-insulated areas.
Prepare for outages
Perform regular maintenance checks on generators and ensure fuel stocks are sufficient. Check that all emergency lightbulbs are working. When a storm hits and a power outage is evident, the building can still be safe to use if the emergency lighting and generators work.
Keep equipment in order
Ensure all equipment on site is serviced and inspected regularly so that it works when the cold weather hits. A good FM provider can offer preventative maintenance, keeping machinery, boilers, and electrical items in good order. Outdoor lighting is also important during the winter months when darkness begins early, so ensure all lighting is functioning well and make regular checks.
Windows repairs
Windows that don’t shut properly can be a big problem when storms hit and wind gusts wreak havoc. Ensure all window locks are in order and that double glazing is in good condition.
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