The Ultimate Guide to Commercial Snow and Ice Management: What Every Facility Manager Needs to Know

Introduction

Winter weather can create major challenges for commercial properties, posing risks to safety, accessibility, and business operations. Facility managers must have a strategic snow and ice management plan to ensure the safety of employees, customers, and assets. This guide will cover essential aspects of commercial snow removal, including best practices, specialized equipment, cost management, and legal compliance.

1. The Importance of Commercial Snow and Ice Management

Why It Matters

• Safety: Slippery surfaces increase the risk of accidents, leading to potential lawsuits and workers’ compensation claims.
• Business Continuity: Snow accumulation can block entrances, driveways, and parking lots, affecting business operations.
• Legal Compliance: Many municipalities require businesses to clear sidewalks and parking lots within a certain timeframe after a snowfall.
• Property Protection: Ice buildup can damage asphalt, concrete, and landscaping.

Who Needs Commercial Snow Removal?

• Retail centers and malls
• Office buildings and corporate parks
• Warehouses and distribution centers
• Healthcare facilities
• Government buildings
• Industrial sites

2. Essential Components of a Snow and Ice Management Plan

Pre-Season Preparation

• Conduct a property assessment to identify high-risk areas.
• Establish a contract with a professional snow removal service before winter.
• Stock up on ice melt, sand, and snow shovels.
• Install snow stakes to mark curbs, fire hydrants, and walkways.
• Set up weather monitoring systems to anticipate snow events.

Snow Removal Strategies

• Plowing: Essential for clearing driveways, roads, and large parking lots.
• Snow Blowing & Shoveling: For sidewalks, stairs, and areas inaccessible by plows.
• Hauling & Relocation: Necessary when large accumulations of snow impede operations.

De-icing & Anti-icing Techniques

• Rock Salt (Sodium Chloride): Effective but can damage pavement and vegetation.
• Calcium Magnesium Acetate (CMA): More eco-friendly and safer for concrete.
• Brine Solutions: Used as a preventative measure to reduce ice formation.
• Sand: Provides traction but does not melt ice.