Expert Tips for a Safe and Cozy Workplace | Written by the Alder Team | 12/3/2024
Winter weather is beautiful to look at—but it can create real headaches for your office. Slippery floors, chilly workspaces, and wet, soggy entrances can make things uncomfortable and unsafe for your team. The good news? A few simple steps and the right tools can keep your workplace warm, dry, and safe, no matter how much rain or snow comes your way.
Here’s how to prepare your office for the season and ensure everyone stays happy and productive all winter long.
5 Steps to Prepare Your Office for Winter Weather
1. Enhance Entryway Safety
Install high-quality floor mats at entrances to minimize water and snow tracking. Regularly check for wet floors and have a spill-response plan to reduce slip hazards. Additionally, consider placing umbrella stands or waterproof boot trays for employee use.
2. Inspect HVAC and Ventilation Systems
Winter weather can strain your heating and ventilation systems. Schedule regular maintenance checks and filter changes to ensure they are running efficiently, keeping the office warm and free of excess humidity that can lead to mold or mildew.
3. Optimize Outdoor Areas
Keep walkways and parking lots clear of snow and ice with de-icing solutions. Ensure proper drainage around the building to prevent pooling water during heavy rain. Adding clear signage for hazards like black ice enhances safety.
4. Communicate Clear Policies
Develop a weather-related work policy that outlines expectations for remote work, flexible hours, or early closures during severe conditions. Share these policies in advance to minimize confusion and disruptions.
5. Stock Up on Essentials
Maintain a supply of items such as raincoats, umbrellas, or ice melt. Having these readily available demonstrates care for employees and minimizes weather-related inconveniences.
Alder’s Must-Have Products for Winter Office Safety
We asked our trusted Vendors to share their go-to cold weather staples. Here’s what they recommended to keep workplaces safe, comfortable, and running smoothly during rain and snow. These essentials will help you stay ahead of winter’s challenges.
Industrial-Grade Floor Mats
These mats trap moisture and debris at the door, keeping your floors clean and slip-free.
"A quality mat stops dirt and slips at the door."
Ice Melt and Spreaders
Quickly de-ice walkways and parking areas with eco-friendly ice melt to ensure safe footing for employees and visitors.
"A little ice melt now avoids big problems later."
Wet Floor Signs
Place these bright, durable signs in areas where wet floors pose a hazard, making safety a visible priority. And avoiding lawsuits!
"A simple sign can prevent a costly fall."
Space Heaters with Safety Features
Provide focused heat to colder office areas while ensuring safety with features like auto shut-off and tip-over protection.
"A warm office makes for happy and comfortable employees."
High-Quality Dehumidifiers
Combat excess moisture from tracked-in snow and rain to maintain indoor air quality and prevent mold growth.
"Dry air isn’t just comfortable; it’s healthier for everyone."
Simplify Winter Preparation with Alder FM
As an Alder Client, you get access to the best local experts and hassle-free solutions. We can even order your essential winter products for you, making it easy to keep your workplace safe, comfortable, and ready for any cold-weather challenge.
Stay ahead of the season with Alder’s trusted expertise. Follow us on LinkedIn and read our blog posts for more safety tips and solutions!
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Preparing Your Office for Snow and Rain
Winter weather is beautiful, but it can create safety risks and discomfort in the workplace. Slippery floors, cold spaces, and wet entrances can impact employee well-being and productivity. Learn how