A 10-Point Guide for Facilities Managers & Business Owners in Staffordshire & Cheshire
Winter weather in the Midlands and North West can be unpredictable. From the high ground of the Staffordshire Moorlands to the busy industrial estates of Crewe and Stoke, being unprepared for ice and snow can lead to accidents, legal claims, and lost revenue.
Use this checklist to ensure your site is safe, compliant, and open for business.
Phase 1: Site Physical Inspection
- 1. Identify “Ice Hotspots”: Walk your site at dawn. Note areas that stay in the shade (north-facing), as these will freeze first and thaw last.
- 2. Inspect External Lighting: Dark mornings and icy patches are a lethal combination. Ensure all car park and walkway lighting is fully operational.
- 3. Clear Drainage & Gutters: Standing water on walkways will turn into black ice. Ensure drains are clear of autumn leaves to prevent pooling.
Phase 2: Equipment & Supplies
- 4. Audit Your Salt Bins: Are your grit bins full? Is the salt still free-flowing or has it become a solid block? (Salt should be stored in a dry, UV-resistant bin).
- 5. Check Manual Tools: Inspect your snow shovels and hand-spreaders. Plastic shovels often crack over the summer—replace them now before the rush.
- 6. PPE Review: Ensure staff tasked with clearing paths have high-visibility vests, insulated waterproof gloves, and footwear with adequate grip.
Phase 3: Health, Safety & Logistics
- 7. Update Your Risk Assessment: Does your Health & Safety policy specifically cover winter weather? Ensure it defines “reasonable action” to prevent slips and falls.
- 8. Staff Communication Plan: Establish a protocol for “Snow Days.” How will you notify staff if the site is dangerous or if you are operating on reduced hours?
- 9. Check Your Liability Insurance: Confirm that your public and employers’ liability insurance is up to date and covers incidents occurring on your external premises.
Phase 4: Professional Support
- 10. Secure a Gritting Contract: Don’t wait for the first “Yellow Warning.” Professional firms prioritize contract holders. Ensure you have a “trigger temperature” agreement in place with a local specialist.
“By the time you see the frost, it’s already too late to prevent the ice. Proactive maintenance is the only way to guarantee site safety.”
Need a Professional Site Assessment?
As a family-run business based in Stoke-on-Trent, we understand the local geography of Staffordshire and Cheshire better than anyone. We don’t just “drop salt”—we manage your winter risk.
- Map out your high-traffic zones.
- Identify dangerous drainage issues.
- Provide a no-obligation quote for automated, sensor-triggered gritting.