As it is expected that the UK will be covered in snow in February, an office product provider has given tips on how employers can help their staff get to work and avoid injuries.
Yesterday (28/1/20) saw temperatures drop to -6.6C overnight, with commuters waking up to slippery surfaces. Office Depot says there is a number of simple steps businesses can take to protect employee safety.
They are:
- Covering car parks with rock salt which offers both cars and pedestrians much-needed grip on slippery surfaces
- Outdoor signage to alert staff of hazardous conditions
- For employees who travel, car essential kits are useful
- Providing a shovel for employees who experience heavy snow
George Hand, head of cleaning, hygiene and catering at Office Depot said:
When cold weather hits and causes havoc, it is the responsibility of every employer to ensure that reasonable precautions are put in place to protect the safety of all employees. Therefore, every office should own the correct equipment designed to reduce the risk of injury when it’s icy, whether it’s snow shovels or high vis-clothing.
Businesses must ensure they have the processes in place to protect staff and avoid expensive supermarket alternatives. Working with a trusted supplier like Office Depot ensures businesses receive the most appropriate products for their needs at the best price.
Mr Hand’s expands on the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 which outlines that every employer has the duty to ensure “so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare at work of all employees.
As well as warning that the next few days could experience some very bad weather and urging managers to take a stock check to make sure their business can run as usual.
It was found that two-thirds (66 per cent) of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have lost revenue due to bad weather.
Darius is the editor of HRreview. He has previously worked as a finance reporter for the Daily Express. He studied his journalism masters at Press Association Training and graduated from the University of York with a degree in History.
