Winter Precautions - Advice from Towergate

		If your business is shutting down over the Christmas and New Year period then you should be aware of the possible damaging effects of freezing weather.   With forecasts as low as -2°C at the beginning of January many businesses could face a catastrophic start to the New Year, so frost damage precautions are recommended across the holiday period to prevent burst pipes and water damage.

General advice: 

• Remember to check that water tanks and pipes are lagged.  Water tanks need at least 25mm of lagging on top and around the sides.
    
• Be sure to check that the roof and drains are clear from leaves and debris to prevent blockages and overflow.
   
• Check that roofs are water tight.
  
• Ensure down-pipes, gutters and supporting brackets are secure.
  
• Avoid freezing of wet pipe sprinkler systems by keeping the temperature above 4°C.
  
• To prevent outside taps from freezing be sure to turn off the water supply.

Business advice:

• Keep stock off the floor or away from pipes to prevent damage in the event of escape of water.
  
• Install automatic water control valves to detect bursts and cut off water supplies.
  
• If the premises is going to be shut down for a long period of time then visit the premises periodically to make sure all precautions are effective.
  

• If pipes do freeze then isolate the affected pipe by closing the stop cock or feed from the mains or tank.  Do not apply heat as this may cause the pipe to burst.

As an employer there are other factors that need to be considered such as the safety of staff and visitors attending the premises. It would be wise to consider the following:

• Have sufficient salting and gritting procedures in place.
• Assess risk of slips on access platforms and, if necessary, suspend any work at height.
• Driving at work - Introduce emergency procedures and guidance on safety in extreme conditions.
• Provide suitable thermal clothing for employees working in cold conditions.

It might also be a good idea to produce a winter weather emergency checklist to be used in conjunction with shutting down to ensure all preventative measures have been adhered to.

Further advice on Business Continuity Planning

Visit the Flood Check website for water control valve information   Consult your local water authority website or a contract plumbing association for further advice.