What is the law?
In the UK, the law regarding slips and falls at a business premises falls under the Occupiers’ Liability Act 1957 and the Occupiers’ Liability Act 1984. These laws require businesses to ensure that their premises are safe for visitors and customers.
If someone slips at your business, the key factors that are considered include whether the business knew about the hazard that caused the slip, if they took reasonable steps to prevent such accidents, and if the visitor could have reasonably expected the hazard to be there.
It is important for businesses to regularly maintain their premises, address any potential hazards promptly, and have proper insurance in place to protect both themselves and their visitors in case of accidents.
If someone does slip at your business, it is advisable to handle the situation with care, empathy, and responsibility, ensuring that the individual receives any necessary medical attention and that the incident is documented properly for any potential legal proceedings.
Prevention is always best
One effective way to prevent visitors from slipping on ice at your business is to prioritise regular snow and ice removal. Make sure to keep pavements, parking areas and entryways clear of any slippery ice patches by using salt or sand to improve traction. Additionally, consider placing warning signs in areas where ice may be present to alert visitors to proceed with caution. Investing in non-slip mats or rugs near entrances can also help provide extra grip for visitors.
How does a gritting company help you plan for ice and snow?
A gritting company can play a crucial role in helping you plan for ice and snow. These companies specialise in providing gritting and snow clearance services to help keep your premises safe and accessible during the winter months.
One of the primary benefits of working with a gritting company is their expertise in assessing the risk and developing a customised winter maintenance plan tailored to your specific needs and budget.
They can help you determine the most effective gritting and snow clearance schedule to ensure that your site is safe and accessible during times of inclement weather.
Moreover, a gritting company can provide access to state-of-the-art equipment and materials to ensure that your site is properly gritted and cleared of snow and ice.
They can also provide round-the-clock monitoring and support to ensure that your premises remain safe and accessible even during the worst winter weather conditions.
Overall, partnering with a gritting company can help you save time, money, and resources while ensuring the safety and accessibility of your premises during the winter months.
To conclude
By taking these precautions, you can create a safer environment for everyone who visits your business during icy conditions, prevention of accidents and ultimately the risk of being sued!
