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R&R Insurance Blog

Preventing Cold Weather Hazards

Posted by the knowledge brokers

Cold-Weather-HazardsA cold weather plan for your facility should be an integral part of your overall maintenance plan for the building and equipment, as well as part of your emergency response/contingency plan that helps your business respond to and manage an emergency event. Hanover Insurance Group provides these helpful tips for preventing cold weather hazards.

 

Before the Onset of Winter

Inspect the Building to Ensure

  • Openings around exterior walls such as windows, doors, or other openings are sealed
  • Equipment penthouses are secured from cold air infiltration
  • Louvers are closed or sealed
  • Dampers on ducts leading to the outside are closed (if possible)
  • Attics and other areas are susceptible to the cold are properly insulated
  • Adequate air flow to maintain heat in all areas of the building to a minimum of 40 F
  • Roof is in good condition or make repairs as needed

 

Identify & Align Resources

  • Qualified contractor to remove snow and ice from the roof
  • Emergency generator
  • Fuel supplies for critical operations such as fire protection equipment, processes, or on-site generators
  • Snow removal services to ensure access to the property

 

When a Winter Storm and/or Deep Freeze is on the Way

  • Monitor weather reports for information to include power outages, potential damage, access to facilities and prepare for action
  • If needed, activate the emergency response team
  • Monitor temperatures in areas susceptible to freezing or significant temperature fluctuations
  • Monitor snow loads of roofs, especially in areas subject to drifts, and take action as needed
  • Clear snow from outside sprinkler control valves and hydrants to keep them accessible
  • Prepare for possible power outages
  • Remove ice dams

 

After the Storm

  • If needed, conduct a damage assessment and secure resources to complete repairs
  • Initiate salvage operations
  • If power was lost, make sure you have a plan to bring electrical loads back on line to prevent power surges that could damage equipment

 

For additional resources on cold weather hazards, contact a Knowledge Broker at R&R Insurance.

Topics: snow and ice, snow, winter hazards, ice damage, Business Insurance, winter