Successful business owners understand the importance of preparing for every eventuality. Failure to be prepared for the “what ifs” can result in loss of business, financial liability, and eventually the closure of a business. The following are four overlooked hazards a business property may face.
Elevator Accidents
Elevator accidents are a rare occurrence. But when they happen, they prove fatal. According to the National Association of Elevator Safety Authorities International, the majority of elevator accidents involve someone falling down the elevator shaft. The NAESAI requires regular elevator maintenance in order to prevent these accidents. Additionally, passengers can take the precaution of looking down before they enter the elevator, keeping their clothing and packages away from elevator doors, avoid closing the elevator door by hand, and avoiding entering overcrowded elevators.
Fire Hazards
Fires can result in the loss of life, the loss of inventory, and the loss of important data. Many overlook potential fire hazards in an office setting. Flammable materials such as cleaners, toners, and aerosol sprays are used in offices. Damaged electrical cabling, damaged computers and laptops, a collection of documents, soft furnishings such as sofas and chairs and overheating extension leads all present a threat of fire. Proper storage of flammable materials and regular removal of excess paper can prevent fire hazards. Additionally, easy access to fire hydrants will allow firefighting professionals the ability to quickly extinguish a fire. Fire hydrants can be kept in working order when property owners follow instructions in manuals like those provided by Terminal City Ironworks Ltd.
Electrocution Accidents
The National Electrical Safety Code provides standards that are designed to minimize the risk of electrocution while working on or visiting a business property. That being said, every year thousands of individuals sustain serious injuries as a result being electrocuted. According to the Office of Compliance Safety and Health, the majority of these electrocutions came as the result of uncovered electrical outlets, uncovered electrical switches, and displaced modular furniture components that left live wires exposed. This hazard can be minimized by having annual electrical safety inspections and making sure that all electrical work is done in harmony with the Code of Federal Regulations and the National Electrical Code.
Defective Sidewalks
Sidewalks are something that everyone takes for granted. It is also understood that sidewalks are not going to be smooth or lack deviations. However, business property owners are responsible for and could be held liable for hazards presented by major defects that present a reasonable risk of harm. Commercial business property owners can minimize their liability for these hazards by monitoring the condition of the sidewalk for which they have custody and repairing any potential danger spots.
Owning a commercial property can be a lucrative investment. It is also something that is chocked full of hidden hazards. Business owners must be aware of these hazards and take the necessary steps to minimize their liability.
