Business Safety

When it comes to your business, safety needs to be one of your number one priorities. Do your research and take the proper steps to protect your business from the hazards that are unique to your industry. There are some general steps that we all should understand. Review the following list and make sure your business is safe.

Protecting Your Business Equipment

First step, purchase the proper insurance protection - Having the proper insurance coverage will repair or replace your damaged machinery or equipment after a covered loss.

Have an inventory of your business equipment and keep it current - If your leased property is covered, you need to include it on your inventory with owned property.

Be serious about your security plan - Don't keep a concentration of valuables in one area. This is tempting to a would-be thief. Record serial numbers for your equipment and valuables and store them in a safe place. Install security alarms and display the alarm company shield.

Use surge protectors on your electronic equipment - You may use individual surge protection devices, it is advisable to use properly installed electrical service meter surge protection. Such protection needs to be professionally installed.

A lighting protection system can be helpful - These types of devices require profession installation. Consult a local contractor for advice.

Fire Safety and Prevention

Sprinkler Systems - These systems should provide 24-hour protection for your business. It is important to have your system professionally and routinely maintained.

Fire Extinguishers - Have the correct number and size of extinguishers in your building. Call your local fire authority to know the proper standards. Have extinguishers easily accessible.

Smoke detection systems - Your smoke detection system will provide an early warning should a fire begin, and allow for an escape of the building. Make sure your smoke detection system meets the laboratory or state standards. You system should be regularly tested and batteries replaced.

Flammable liquid and chemical storage - Store flammable liquids in their original UL-listing can or bottle. Allow for plenty of ventilation when using or storing chemicals. Chemical vapor can build up in an unventilated area, during storage or use, and ignite from a spark, or create a breathing hazard.

Water Damage and Your Business

Appliances - Your appliances are a common source of water damage. Normally, this is due to older equipment. If a house bursts from an appliance, 100's of gallons can flood your workspace.

Pipe and drains - Plumbing systems can clog or congest, overflowing appliances, sinks and toilets. Only a small crack in a pipe can release over 200 gallons of water per day.

Roofing - Poorly maintained roofing with missing or damaged tiles or materials can allow water into your building, damaging ceilings, walls and floors. You need to make sure your insulation it adequate to reduce the decay of your roofing.

A Bit More Regarding Sprinkler Systems

Commercial sprinkler systems are about 95% effective if properly installed and maintained. Proper care requires inspection by you, the property owner, and a qualified sprinkler maintenance contractor. You want to reduce the chance that the system will malfunction, so proper maintenance is mandatory. For more information, please contact a local contractor, or your local fire authority.