Contributed by Angie Mierley, Corporate Risk Manager

 

Winter is right around the corner – the following are some tips to help you prepare and operate safely during the season

Preparation:

  1. Shut down all outside water hose feeds.
  2. Check all outside exposed or air feed mechanical room heating systems to ensure they work properly.
  3. Check heating in all stairwells.
  4. Properties in snow areas should buy ice melt now and store it on site – buy in bulk or pallet loads to save money.
  5. Clean all roofing and remove any debris – check roof drains.
  6. Check all heat trace taping systems for proper operation.
  7. Examine all weather equipment for proper operation – repair or replace damaged or broken equipment such as salt. spreaders, shovels, wear parts on snow throwers leading edges shear pins – gas with a fuel stabilizer additive.
  8. Also, do not forget to winterize all of your summer equipment.
  9. Have an emergency action plan for power outages or any other storm related emergency.

Maintenance:

  1. Keep the parking lots, entry ways, exits and sidewalks cleared of snow and ice.
  2. Shovel any measurable snow from sidewalks – do not just apply a deicer.
  3. Monitor the conditions constantly and clear and reapply deicer as needed.
  4. Maintain a maintenance log with date, times and actions taken.
  5. Monitor the lobby and hallways – immediately clean up any wet spots – post wet floor signs as needed.
  6. When utilizing any outside vendors for plowing or snow removal – need to have a current contract approved by the Shaner Legal Department with insurance provisions approved by Shaner Risk Management.

Winter Driving Tips – (Review with all hotel authorized drivers)

  1. Ensure all hotel vehicles are serviced- check tires, coolant levels, maintain tank at least half full during the season.
  2. Keep windshield washer reservoir full – wiper blades should be in good condition.
  3. Before driving – make sure the vehicle is cleared of snow and ice – including windows, mirrors, lights, hood, roof & trunk.
  4. Be cautious on bridges and overpasses as these are the first areas to become icy.
  5. Remember speed limits are meant for dry roads, not roads covered in snow and ice. You should reduce your speed and increase your following distance as road conditions become visibly worse.
  6. Do not use cruise control in snowy or icy conditions. In adverse conditions, you want as much control of your vehicle as possible.
  7. Use caution when braking on slippery surfaces.