Winterizing Restaurants and Bars: A Guide to Protecting Your Business from the Chill

Winterizing Restaurants and Bars: A Guide to Protecting Your Business from the Chill

As winter sets in, the hospitality industry faces unique challenges in safeguarding establishments from harsh weather conditions. From slippery sidewalks to the risk of burst pipes, restaurants and bars need to take proactive measures to help protect their businesses and ensure a safe and welcoming environment for patrons. The following strategies are helpful to weatherize establishments.

Salting Winter Sidewalks

• Invest in High-Quality Ice Melt: Selecting the right ice melt product is crucial to help combat slippery sidewalks. Look for high-quality, environmentally friendly ice melt that won't damage pavement or harm nearby plants. Place a container of ice melt at the door to spot treat door entrances and sidewalks.
• Timely Application: Regularly monitor weather forecasts and be proactive in applying ice melt before snow or freezing rain hits. This preventive approach helps to minimize the formation of ice and reduces the risk of accidents. Also, conduct periodic inspections of the property to look for hazardous areas, such as entrances and sidewalks.
• Establish a Clearing Schedule: Designate specific times for snow and ice removal. A consistent schedule helps ensure that sidewalks remain safe throughout the winter, providing a positive and secure experience for customers.
• Train Staff on Safe Handling: Educate staff on the proper use of ice melt and ensure they follow safety guidelines when applying it. This includes wearing appropriate protective gear and using the right amount to achieve effective results.

Help Prevent Pipes from Bursting

• Insulate Exposed Pipes: Insulating exposed pipes is a cost-effective way to reduce the risk of freezing. Use pipe insulation sleeves or wrap pipes with heat tape to protect against extreme cold temperatures.
• Maintain Adequate Heating: Ensure that your establishment is adequately heated, especially in areas where pipes are vulnerable to freezing. This may include basements, attics and crawl spaces. Consistent heating helps maintain a suitable temperature to prevent pipes from freezing.
• Drip Faucets in Cold Areas: In extremely cold conditions, allowing faucets to drip slightly can prevent pipes from freezing. Moving water is less likely to freeze, reducing the risk of pipe bursts.
• Regularly Inspect for Leaks: Perform routine inspections of the plumbing system for any signs of leaks or weak points. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent larger problems down the line.

Winter weather presents unique challenges for restaurants and bars, but with proactive measures, businesses can minimize risks and ensure a safe and welcoming environment for patrons. Embrace these winterization tips to keep your doors open and your business thriving throughout the winter season.

Society Insurance is recognized throughout the industry as a leader in providing superior restaurant and bar insurance, custom-tailored to fit each operation's unique needs. To learn more, visit societyinsurance.com/georgia.

This information is provided as a convenience for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. It is provided to assist you in recognizing potential unsafe work problems or conditions and not to establish compliance with any law, rule or regulation.