Snow and ice removal is an essential aspect of property maintenance for commercial property owners. It prevents liability claims by keeping business premises safe. Snow-covered and slippery surfaces present dangers for workers, customers and other third parties. As noted by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, walking on ice is extremely dangerous and is the cause of many cold-weather injuries. Snow and ice can cause serious injuries, including broken bones, traumatic brain injuries and even death.

Therefore, businesses bear the responsibility of ensuring their premises are safe; if a third party suffers an injury due to an unsafe condition on the business’s property, the business may be liable for paying for their damages. This concept, known as premises liability, is in place to help ensure the public can safely access a business’s location.

Snow and Ice Liabilities

Each business is unique and faces different winter weather challenges; however, maintaining safe premises for workers, clients and other third parties is essential for all organizations. While snow and ice dangers vary from year to year, there are several reasons why businesses need to remove snow and ice from their property, including:

Safety for Customers and Employees: Icy walkways, parking lots, and entrances pose serious slip-and-fall hazards, which could lead to injuries for customers and staff alike. Regular clearing reduces the risk of accidents.

Liability Reduction: If someone gets injured on icy or snowy premises, businesses may face liability claims. Many areas have legal requirements for snow and ice removal, so staying compliant reduces the risk of costly lawsuits.

Maintaining Accessibility: Ensuring that entrances, ramps, and sidewalks are clear of snow and ice makes the business accessible to everyone, including people with mobility challenges.

Positive Business Image: A well-maintained property shows customers that the business values their safety and comfort, contributing to a positive impression and customer loyalty.

Avoiding Property Damage: Snow and ice can lead to structural damage by putting extra weight on roofs or causing water buildup. Snow removal reduces the potential for costly repairs.

Minimizing Business Interruptions: Regular snow removal helps maintain a clear path for deliveries and keeps employees and customers able to come and go as needed, reducing disruptions.

One of the ways that businesses can ensure snow and ice are being removed effectively and efficiently is to create a snow and ice removal plan. Such a comprehensive strategy can help businesses stay consistent with how snow and ice removal is undertaken and provide documented instructions that can be communicated to workers and other involved parties.

Snow and Ice Plan

Several considerations must be taken into account when selecting snow and ice removal strategies. Having a plan in place is essential to mitigate risks and liability exposures. Thus, businesses should establish a snow and ice removal program to enhance their risk management policies and procedures. Aspects of this program should achieve the following:

Define Responsibilities and Assign Roles: Outline who is responsible for snow and ice removal (e.g., employees, external contractors). Specify responsibilities for monitoring conditions, applying de-icers, clearing snow, and conducting regular safety checks.

Establish Regular Monitoring Procedures: Set up a schedule to monitor weather forecasts, ground conditions, and areas prone to ice formation. Implement a protocol for increased monitoring during winter storms or severe weather.

Set Clear Standards for Snow and Ice Removal: Specify acceptable levels of snow accumulation and response times for clearing snow and applying de-icers. Ensure pathways, parking lots, entrances, and emergency exits are prioritized for rapid clearing.

Use Proper Equipment and Materials: Identify and maintain necessary equipment like shovels, salt spreaders, snow blowers, or plows. Stockpile sufficient supplies of de-icing agents and sand to avoid shortages during peak times.

Implement a Documentation Process: Record all snow and ice removal activities, including the date, time, and areas cleared, as well as any hazards identified or addressed. Documentation is key in case of future liability claims or audits.

Establish Emergency and Contingency Plans: Plan for severe weather events by establishing backup measures, such as calling in additional resources or redirecting foot traffic to safer entrances. Make sure staff is trained in emergency procedures.

Provide Employee Training and Safety Protocols: Train staff to recognize and respond to winter hazards. Offer guidance on safely operating snow removal equipment and using de-icers effectively.

Coordinate with an External Contractor (if needed): If outsourcing snow removal, establish a contract that specifies the contractor’s duties, response times, and liability coverage. Have regular check-ins to ensure standards are met.

Communicate with Employees and Customers: Make customers and employees aware of winter hazards and the procedures in place to mitigate them. Signage, regular email reminders, and verbal instructions are effective ways to keep everyone informed.

Review and Update the Program Annually: Conduct an annual review of the snow and ice removal program. Assess the effectiveness, update procedures as needed, and adapt the program to reflect any changes in property layout, staffing, or risk factors.

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