As winter weather approaches, here are some key risk management strategies to consider for your pharmacy operations.
Winter Weather Preparedness
- Risk Assessment: Conduct a thorough assessment of your pharmacy’s property to identify areas vulnerable to ice and snow accumulation. Pay special attention to entryways, walkways, and parking lots.
- Property Review: Inspect the property for any potential leaks or damage that could worsen in the event of severe winter weather
- Weather Monitoring: Stay informed about local weather forecasts. Use alerts to prepare for impending winter storms and adjust operational plans accordingly.
Maintenance and Safety Measures
- Regular Snow and Ice Removal: Establish a routine for promptly clearing snow and ice from sidewalks, entryways, and parking areas. Use professional services if necessary to ensure thorough and safe removal and review your contract with them to ensure all parties understand their responsibility
- De-icing Products: Invest in high-quality de-icing materials where required. Apply these products strategically to prevent ice formation, especially in high-traffic areas. Ensure that these materials are safe for both the environment and surfaces.
- Floor Mats: Ensure these are placed in high traffic areas to reduce water/snow accumulation and check on them regularly throughout each day to ensure they are placed correctly.
Staff Training and Awareness
- Safety Training: Train staff on winter safety protocols, including proper footwear, cautionary measures when navigating slippery surfaces, and reporting hazards immediately.
- Incident Reporting: Implement a clear system for staff to report slip-and-fall incidents or near misses. This data can help identify patterns and improve safety measures.
Signage and Communication
- Warning Signs: Place clear, visible signage in areas prone to slipping hazards, particularly in entryways and around wet floor areas. Use bright colors to ensure they catch the attention of patients and visitors.
- Patient Communication: Inform patients about potential hazards upon entering the pharmacy. Consider using announcements or visible reminders about taking care on slippery surfaces.
Documentation Considerations
- Documentation: Keep detailed records of maintenance activities, weather conditions, and any incidents that occur. This documentation can be crucial in defending against liability claims.
Post-Incident Response
- Immediate Action: After a slip-and-fall incident, ensure that first aid is administered if necessary, and document the event thoroughly. Gather witness accounts and photographic evidence of the scene. Connect with your broker/insurance provider to report any instances as deemed necessary.
Conclusion
By adopting these best practices for risk management during winter weather, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of property damage and slip-and-fall incidents. A proactive approach not only protects the pharmacy’s assets but also enhances the safety and well-being of both staff and patients, fostering a safer community environment throughout the winter months.
Interested in hearing how the OPA retail pharmacy program can provide additional services to help manage your risk? Contact HUB International’s OPA team at 1-855-672-7672 or [email protected] to learn more.
