Keep Parking Lots Safe for All
Employees, guests, visitors, vendors, yourself, and others – the parking lot is an appreciated convenience for all. While you may not pay much mind to this space, disasters can happen that leave you responsible. Slippery conditions, uneven surfaces, and poor lighting can make parking lots dangerous and hazardous. A well-maintained and well-lit parking area can help to keep your employees and visitors comfortable and safe.
Slips, trips, and falls can result in serious injuries to visitors. This seemingly minor risk has the potential for lawsuits. It’s important to know the particular risks of your area and take appropriate precautions to safeguard individuals. Take a look at these tips on how to keep employees and visitors safe in your parking lot.
- Ensure there are no tripping hazards. Make sure walkways and other paths are clear of holes, poles, rocks, and debris that someone could trip over. Curbs and sidewalk joints should be even, and level changes should be visually identified, such as marking with yellow safety paint.
- Install adequate lighting. During non-routine work hours such as early mornings or late evenings, your parking lot should be lit well so that people can clearly see vehicles and paths. Exterior lighting is important year-round, and should be adequate for nighttime use.
- Maintain handrails. Handrails or guardrails should be installed at level changes and for the stairs and ramps. Make sure they are stable and at the appropriate height.
- Establish clear signage. All entrances, exits, pedestrian crossings, and parking areas should be signposted clearly. Landscaping and signs should not block driver visibility.
- Maintain proper drainage. Standing water can be an issue for pedestrians as well as vehicles. If your business’s parking lot has standing water, there is a potential for ice during the winter, which can open you up to more risks. Make sure that drains are away from pedestrian areas and are well maintained.
- Establish a snow maintenance program. Make sure that you have a reliable contract with a local snow removal company to make sure the parking lots and sidewalks are free of snow and ice.
Make it easy for employees and visitors to report conditions in the parking lot, whether they feel unsafe or in danger. Management should receive these comments well and take action to correct an issue promptly. Doing so can help keep your business running smoothly.
A small investment parking lot safety for your business can help to avoid disasters. To find out if your business insurance is ready for the worst, call CAV Insurance Agency on 781-237-4107. We serve business owners in the Metro West areas such as Natick, Wellesley, Dover, Sherborn, and Weston.