Winter in Philadelphia can be harsh. It’s especially challenging for businesses responsible for keeping high-traffic areas clear of snow and ice. Effective commercial snow removal in high-traffic areas isn’t just about clearing walkways, but about ensuring the safety and accessibility of your property. Implementing best practices is critical for a business’s reputation, legal protection, and smooth operations. Failing to do so could result in anything from customer complaints and inconvenience to dangerous accidents and potential lawsuits.
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Beyond safety, best practices for snow and ice management often impact your bottom line. Think about it, a poorly cleared parking lot might mean fewer customers. But, more than that, neglecting prompt ice removal could even lead to hefty fines depending on local Philadelphia ordinances. This is why a proactive and strategic approach to snow removal is so important.
The Importance of a Solid Plan
A successful snow removal operation starts long before the first snowflake falls. You need to plan for many aspects of the process, such as budgeting for potential snow removal costs or making sure you have a reliable snow removal service lined up.
Understanding Your Needs and Local Regulations
First, you’ve got to know the lay of the land – literally. Take a walk around your property and note the size and layout. This includes parking lots, walkways, entrances, loading docks, and any other high-traffic areas.
You need to be realistic about how much snow your team can handle and when it makes more sense to bring in professional help. Philadelphia has specific regulations about snow plowing. Ignorance isn’t a valid defense, so make sure you’re up to date on city ordinances concerning snow and ice removal, including deadlines for clearing sidewalks and where you can and can’t put the plowed snow.
Choosing the Right Contractor
Selecting a reputable and experienced snow removal contractor can be a game-changer. Look for a company with a proven track record, the right equipment, proper insurance coverage, and a commitment to safety and environmental responsibility. Ask for references and don’t hesitate to request quotes from multiple contractors.
Don’t base your decision on price alone. Check for any hidden fees or additional charges in the removal contract, like for weekends or extra heavy snowfall.
Establishing Clear Communication
Communication is paramount, especially during a snow event. Make sure you have a direct line of contact with your snow removal contractor and agree on things like snow accumulation triggers for plowing and de-icing. Sharing updated weather forecasts and coordinating snow removal efforts based on predicted accumulation will help with response times.
Investing in the Right Tools
Even with a top-notch snow removal contractor, having some equipment on hand might be necessary to deal with smaller jobs or last-minute situations.
Snow Removal Equipment Essentials
- Shovels and Snow Pushers: Ideal for clearing sidewalks and walkways and handling light snowfall.
- Snowblowers: Great for clearing moderate amounts of snow from larger walkways or parking areas more efficiently than manual shoveling.
- Salt Spreaders: Helpful for distributing de-icing materials, making surfaces safer for pedestrians. Consider purchasing salt in bulk before the start of the winter season to get the best pricing and avoid any potential supply shortages.
Importance of Regular Maintenance
Having reliable snow removal equipment means making sure it’s well maintained. Check that your shovels are in good condition and schedule regular maintenance for snowblowers and other machinery. Have salt spreaders calibrated for proper deicer application.
Safety and Environmental Considerations
Effective commercial snow removal goes hand in hand with safety and environmental responsibility. Both of these tie in with the types of snow removal methods used, products chosen, and a commitment to minimizing risk while protecting your property and the surrounding environment.
Safe Snow Removal Practices
- Proper Footwear: Equip employees responsible for clearing snow with appropriate footwear. This should have good traction to help prevent slips and falls on icy surfaces.
- Lifting Techniques: When shoveling, bend your knees and lift with your legs to avoid back injuries. It’s a good idea to take frequent breaks to avoid overexertion.
- Visibility: Ensure workers are visible to pedestrians and vehicles, especially at night. Reflective vests or clothing with high visibility markings will improve worker safety during these operations.
- Signage: Place caution signs or cones around your property, especially near icy patches. Having a designated area where snow will be piled is helpful too. Clearly marking those areas with cones and signage can prevent accidents.
Environmentally Friendly Products
When choosing de-icing materials, consider those that have a low environmental impact. While rock salt is widely used, overuse can be harmful to landscaping, concrete surfaces, and local waterways. Opt for environmentally-friendly alternatives like calcium chloride, potassium chloride, or even sand in certain situations.
The Cost of Snow Removal
Budgeting for snow removal is essential, and the final cost often depends on a variety of factors, including the type of contract chosen, the size of your property, and the severity of the winter weather.
Types of Snow Removal Contracts
- Seasonal Contracts: With a seasonal contract you pay a flat rate for the entire winter season regardless of the actual amount of snowfall. This simplifies budgeting and ensures you have service lined up for any weather events. However, you might feel like you overpaid during a milder winter.
- Per-Push Contracts: You’re billed every time the snow removal contractor clears your property with this type of contract. It’s best for businesses that don’t experience regular snowfall and only need removal services occasionally. But be aware that costs can quickly increase during heavier snowfall periods.
- Full-Service Seasonal Contracts: This offers the most comprehensive coverage and is often used for properties where even a little snow poses a risk like a hospital or medical facility. It’s a higher upfront cost, but offers greater peace of mind because you’re covered regardless of snowfall. Services can include pre-treatment, continuous clearing, and detailed post-storm inspections.
Factor in Additional Costs
Don’t forget to budget for potential additional costs, including:
- **Emergency Services:** Emergency calls during weekends, holidays, or after a major snowfall could cost more. You might pay $50 for 1-3 inches, $100 for 3-6 inches, and an additional hourly rate for anything over 6 inches.
- **Ice Control:** Some companies might have separate pricing for de-icing or ice control in addition to regular plowing services. Clarify what is and is not included in quotes to make a more accurate comparison.
- **Snow Hauling:** If your property lacks space for onsite snow piles, factor in extra charges for hauling snow offsite to a designated dumping area. These services often require specialized equipment and larger vehicles which will increase costs.
FAQs about Best Practices for Snow Removal in High-Traffic Commercial Areas
What should I look for in a commercial snow removal service?
You’ll want to consider factors like their experience level, references, insurance, range of services offered, types of equipment, environmental responsibility, and pricing structure. Additionally, assess their communication practices, as clear and timely updates are crucial, especially during a snow event. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, request detailed quotes, and compare multiple contractors to find the right fit.
How much snow accumulation should I have before I start plowing?
The specific answer depends on the intended purpose and regulations; however, in Philadelphia starting to plow when the snow reaches two inches deep is generally accepted. The objective is to prevent snow from accumulating to the point where it becomes difficult to move and impedes pedestrian and vehicle traffic. If the forecast predicts heavy snow it is often beneficial to start plowing sooner rather than later, even before the two-inch mark. Keep an eye on the weather forecasts, and coordinate snow removal teams based on predicted snow accumulation to avoid last-minute scrambling.
What happens to the snow after it’s removed?
The most common approach is to create a designated snow storage area on-site, where it can melt gradually. But, if you have a smaller property in an urban environment like Philadelphia, off-site snow removal and hauling to a designated snow disposal area might be necessary. Remember to be aware of local Philadelphia ordinances on where snow can be dumped, which often have restrictions due to drainage, proximity to waterways, and other environmental concerns.
Are there alternatives to using salt for de-icing?
Yes, there are alternatives to traditional rock salt. Some choices are calcium chloride or potassium chloride. While effective, these deicers need to be used judiciously to minimize potential damage to vegetation or water systems. Another option for enhancing traction, particularly on walkways, is sand. Sand doesn’t melt the ice but does increase traction, which can be helpful in reducing slip and fall accidents. No matter what de-icing method you choose, understanding its advantages, potential downsides, and proper application methods are all part of best practices for high-traffic commercial areas.
Conclusion
Implementing best practices for snow removal in high-traffic commercial areas in a bustling city like Philadelphia isn’t optional; it’s essential. Having a good strategy, investing in the right equipment, and partnering with reliable snow removal contractors contribute to a safer and more efficient winter season.
