With Winter well underway, it is crucial that buildings are fully prepared for the problems that the dark nights and plummeting temperatures may bring.

It is imperative for Facilities and Building Managers to minimise the risk, Health & Safety issues and the new challenges that this time of year brings.

With safety and compliance being paramount to the business’, it is paramount that Landlords and Tenants have winter plans in place to reduce the risks of damage that wind, rain, snow and ice can bring to their property if not appropriately planned for.

Integrity Facilities Management have some helpful tips to help you plan for this time of the year:

• Flat Roof Leaks – With the inclement weather, roofs are much more susceptible to damage and perforations. It is important to regularly carry out inspections of the roofing felt, joints and membrane to spot and repair any potential defects which could lead to costly leaks. Read more on the importance of maintaining your roof.
• Pitched Roofs – Powerful storms and high winds often can cause issues with tiles becoming dislodged and weak which poses not only issues with leaks but also an extreme health and safety problems for any members of the public on the ground.
• External Lighting – With the dark nights upon us, it is important to ensure that you have adequate and functional external lighting for both security and health & safety reasons.
• Guttering – After heavy rain spells, it is important to check buildings guttering on a regular basis to ensure that they are fully flowing and clear of all debris as this is a common cause of leaks. When guttering backs up at the joints & hoppers, it can regularly and quickly build up the rainwater which spills over and can cause damage to properties.
• Boilers – Boilers are crucial asset to ensuring the functionality of your building. It allows you to control the temperature and tailor it to your requirements ensuring that both employees and visitors are comfortable. Read more to find out the importance of maintaining and servicing a boiler.
• Backup Generators / Power Supply – Having a UPS (Uninterrupted Power Supply) is important to the business’ core functionality. With power cuts common in the winter time due to the increased likelihood of extreme weather, ensuring that the backup power supply is in place and fully operational is key to avoiding any power outages which put a halt to the business functions.
• Plumbing – Ensuring that all pipework is insulated where necessary and all joints are secure will reduce the risk of an emergency plumber being required to attend to any defects which could leak to leaks and a loss of heating.
• Windows and Window Frames – Prolonged periods of rainfall can lead to leaks coming through cracks and perforations in windows and frames. These should be checked on a regular basis when carrying out site inspections and walk throughs and sealed / repaired accordingly to prevent any future damage.
• Grounds Maintenance / Gritting – With the icy conditions in winter, paths and car parks are a common place for injury in the workplace. In order to keep employees, visitors and members of the public safe, it is a necessity to ensure that paths are kept clear of moss, mud, debris and the like and ensure the areas are well gritted to minimise the risk of slips, trips and falls.

Integrity Facilities Management are on hand to assist you and your company through this tricky winter period. We offer a wide range of services across numerous sectors which can be tailored to your business needs.

For more information, please feel free to get in contact on 0121 289 3148 or alternatively, email us at fm@integrity-uk.com.