Physical damages can come in many forms — fire, theft, vandalism, and more. All of them can cause you to lose money, halt business, or worse, close down your shop. But by taking a few simple precautions, you can help to protect your business from these types of disasters. Here are some common damages to avoid and some steps that you should follow to ensure the safety of your business and everyone involved.
1. Fire
One of the most devastating types of physical damage is a fire. Not only can it cause extensive property damage, but it can also lead to serious injuries or even death. To help protect your business from fire, make sure that you have a working fire alarm and sprinkler system, and that your employees are trained on how to use them. You should also have a clear evacuation plan in place so that everyone knows what to do in the event of a fire.
2. Theft
Another common type of damage is theft. This can include items being stolen from your business, or even worse, someone breaking in and stealing your entire inventory. Make sure that you have a good security system in place, and that your employees are aware of proper security procedures. Always have a backup plan in place in case of theft, such as insurance or a safe place to store your valuables.
3. Electricity
Another common type of damage is caused by electricity. This kind of damage comes in the form of power outages, equipment failures, or even faulty wiring. Make sure you have a backup generator and that your equipment is kept up to date by having it serviced at least once every 12 months. The building should be inspected by a licensed electrician for any risk of fire and electrocution. This should allow you to get an EICR for your commercial property.
4. Water
Many businesses are also at risk of water damage. This can come from storms, leaks, and floods. Water damages can be very costly to repair, so it’s important to take steps to prevent them. You should have flood insurance that covers your business in case of a natural disaster. You should also have a plan in place to deal with any leaks immediately. Get leaks fixed as soon as possible, check your drainage system regularly, and always keep a backup of your important files and documents.
5. Strong winds
Strong winds can also cause physical damage to your business. This is usually in the form of downed trees, power lines, or even flying debris. To help protect your business, make sure that all of your trees are trimmed and that any loose branches are removed. A comprehensive insurance policy can help to cover any damages that are caused by strong winds. Also, try to keep your parking lot and walkways free of any clutter, and always park your vehicles in a safe location.
6. Vandalism
Vandals can cause a lot of damage to your business, both inside and out. They can break windows, spray paint graffiti, or even steal items from your property. To protect your business from vandalism, make sure that you have a good security system in place. You should also keep your property well-lit and free of any debris that could be used to vandalize your business. Always report any vandalism to the police so that they can investigate and catch the perpetrators.
7. Snow and ice
Snow and ice can also cause physical damage to your business. During the cold seasons, it’s important to take steps to prevent snow and ice from building up on your property. This should include clearing sidewalks and parking lots, salting walkways, and using sand or grit on icy areas. The roof and eaves of your building should also be cleared of any snow or ice, as these can cause ice dams that can destroy the roofing, which can lead a roof to collapse. Snow and ice can be very dangerous, so it’s important to take steps to prevent them from accumulating.
8. Earthquakes
Earthquakes can also cause physical damage to your business. Although this is not a common occurrence, it’s still important to be prepared. Make sure that all of your shelves and cabinets are securely bolted to the walls, and that your equipment is properly secured. An earthquake disaster kit should also be kept on hand, as well as a plan for how to shut off gas and water lines. In the event of an earthquake, it’s important to stay calm and know what to do in order to protect your business.
There are a number of different things that could cause physical damage to your business, from storms and floods to strong winds. It’s important to take steps to protect your business from these dangers. This includes having a good security system, keeping your property well-lit and free of debris, and clearing snow and ice from your property. You should also have a comprehensive insurance policy that will help to cover any damages that are caused by these risks. By taking these precautions, you can help to protect your business from physical damage.
