How to Weatherproof your Business
The severe weather we have all come to expect during the winter period causes several issues for businesses who are trying to get on with business as usual.
Being prepared for the harsh weather can prevent you being stressed and ensures your company, be it a hairdressers, an accountancy firm or a building contractor, can continue to run efficiently. The following are fail-safe tips to make sure your business gets through the winter period with as few problems as possible.
1.Have a severe weather policy for staff
All small business should have a bad weather policy for their employees. This should discuss all potential problems, such as absence and disruptions to orders. A good severe weather policy will provide you with a solid foundation for tackling bad weather disruptions.
2. Be flexible
If your employees are not able to attend try to take a flexible outlook on working hours and location. With some businesses, such as accountancy, it may be possible for staff to work from home and still get the job done.
3.Don't forget your customers and suppliers
When making a contingency plan ensure you recognise it may be difficult for suppliers and customers to act as they would during normal weather conditions. Make sure those that need to contact you can do so, even if your business is closed. One possible solution is redirecting your office calls to your mobile or house phone.
4.Be aware of health and safety hazards
Bad weather can make your work place a dangerous place to be. Take the necessary precautions to ensure the safety of your customers, your employees and yourself. Builders need to be especially careful as winter weather can lead to slippery scaffolding and hazardous working conditions.
5.Make use of technology
The weather may make it difficult for you to get into your workplace or office but many tasks can now be completed from home with modern technology. Use video conferencing to get in contact with your associates, you can also email and call your staff to find out how they are dealing with the harsh weather.
6.Check your insurance policies
Check your insurance to make sure you are covered for all the risks that winter brings your way, such as burst pipes, icy surfaces and snow damage. You should ensure you have the right policy to cover you and your business during the winter period. If your business is not insured get a quote with ConstructaQuote.com today for competitive business insurance.
7.Don't let the conditions hold you back
Small businesses may consider back up plans to be time-consuming and too much effort. However, if the worst case scenario does happen it ensures your business is able to deal with it and continue business as usual.