Marsh offers firms winter survival strategies

by Gill Montia

Story link: Marsh offers firms winter survival strategies

Marsh has come up with a check list for organisations struggling with the UK’s freezing winter conditions.

The broker and risk adviser has outlined a number of actions aimed at protecting staff, the public and assets, while at the same time maintaining services.

Some key areas covered by the firm are as follows:

It is worth running a check on all heating units and building insulation, including on outside pipes.

Power and telephone cables should also be inspected for ice, as should fire hydrants and sprinkler valves.

If portable heaters are required, they must be adequately maintained, staff trained to use them and fire risk assessments updated.

Business vehicles need regular inspection and drivers should be equipped with a shovel, de-icer, blankets, food and a flask of hot drink and a fully-charged mobile phone.

To reduce the impact of days of snow, Marsh recommends companies review their continuity plans.

Where problems occur, customers and suppliers should be informed as soon as possible and key staff should be encouraged to plan their continued availability for work in the event that their method of travel is disrupted.

HR policies for dealing with temporary staff absences should be in place and well understood.

Businesses should identify outdoor areas most likely to be affected by ice and treat to prevent and icy surface forming and/or keep employees and pedestrians off slippery surfaces.

Finally, all traffic and travel routes on site should kept clear of snow and ice and a stock of salt or grit made available for keeping paths and traffic routes ice free.