Minimising Your Loss/Damage

It is in the interest of your business to minimize loss or damage, therefore we have included a selection of tips that can assist in the management of liability, material damage and general issues.

Liability

• Effect a staff training program on an individual basis and review it with the staff member on an annual basis at minimum.
• Establish a health & safety committee.
• Record near misses, as well as incidents, review these monthly to ensure the risk of injury to staff, clients and members of the public is minimized.
• Review your hot water supply to ensure there is no risk of scalding. Consider thermostatic valves and/or mixer taps.
• Consider the use of hoists to avoid lifting related injuries to your staff. Avoid manual handling wherever possible.

Material Damage

• Electrical wiring, appliances and portable equipment should be checked regularly (at least every other year) by a qualified electrician.
• Portable heaters should be guarded and sited where they can neither be knocked over, nor cause any injury.
• Regularly check external doors and windows are closed and locked when not in use to prevent opportunist thefts.
• Make sure internal fire doors are kept closed.
• Consider the use of security lighting and alarms in any secluded areas around your buildings.
• Consult your local crime prevention and fire officers annually and follow their advice.

General

• Conduct regular risk assessments in all areas of your business.
• Ensure all external areas are kept clear of rubbish and debris.
• Ensure pathways to your office are level and well maintained without any broken, cracked or loose paving stones.
• Ensure all activities are adequately supervised to avoid any injury to your clients and staff.
• Consider drawing up a business continuity plan in case of major disruption to the business.
• If you would like any further advice or assistance on risk management, contact PrimeCare and we will arrange for one of our risk management surveyors to contact you.