Have you ever wondered if your building or small business “is up to code”? What does this mean?
Standards and codes are used by many U.S. communities, as well as many global markets, for safety and to help reduce property losses. These include International Code Council (ICC), National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), local, county, state, insurance underwriting guidelines, and/or other codes that may be applicable in different jurisdictions.
The ICC has designated the month of May as “Building Safety Month.” This 64,000-member association is dedicated to building safety and fire prevention through the development of building codes used in construction of commercial buildings, residential homes and schools. Staying within compliance of the ICC codes, along with the codes developed by the other entities listed above and following best risk management practices can help reduce unnecessary costs and accidents.
The primary reason for managing risk is safety. The disastrous structure fire in Oakland, CA last year is a tragic example of non-compliance. Building maintenance standards may have helped prevent the fire, while ensuring that fire alarms, fire extinguishers and sprinkler systems were in good working order as per code standards may have helped limit the damage caused by the fire. Adherence to recommendations can help prevent disastrous life and property losses.
While the above is an extreme example, it does emphasize the importance of inspection and prevention. For example, maintaining your building’s premises (ensuring even pavement or installing guardrails/handrails in the appropriate places) can help prevent a trip and fall incident that could lead to a costly workers’ compensation or liability claim. Read more about business risk management tips and commercial property maintenance and safety.
Proper risk management can help prevent accidents, injuries and penalties. Fines for infractions can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Violation information can be made public, which can harm your business’s reputation.
Building Safety Tips and Risk Management Best Practices
With so many codes to adhere to, you may be wondering how you can ensure that your business location is compliant and how to maintain that going forward. Here are some tips to consider that are designed to help maintain code compliance and help ensure the safety of your small business:
- Keep exits clear and ensure there is proper exit identification
- Provide handrails for steps/stairwells
- Repair any sidewalk/driveway cracks and potholes
- Install ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) breakers for wet areas like kitchens and bathrooms
- Install slip resistant stair covering
- Smoke/Carbon monoxide detectors should be hardwired with battery backup
- Properly service and inspect fire sprinkler systems in accordance with all applicable regulations and standards
In addition, obtain the proper permits when taking on renovations. Do not try to circumvent obtaining building permit by attempting “do-it-yourself” projects. Building inspections are needed to make sure contractors completing work to code.
Remember: codes change so keep on top of them. Familiarize yourself with your local codes. Designate a manager within your business to handle code compliance and conduct scheduled self-inspections to identify issues before they become a major problem. Lastly, hire qualified and insured contractors to maintain your commercial property.
AmTrust Offers a Wealth of Loss Control Resources
The AmTrust Loss Control Department focuses on risk management support. We assist our clients and underwriting department by assessing the conditions, practices and processes of the work environment to identify hazards and recommend strategies to management that can help reduce, control or eliminate accidents and losses. Remember, only you can prevent accidents and injuries in your workplace.
AmTrust offers a wealth of loss control resources, including risk management support. Also, visit our blog regularly for more up-to-date news, tips and information on the insurance industry. Subscribe today to the PolicyWire blog.
This material is for informational purposes only, summarizes coverages and services that may be available in a policy, and is not legal or business advice. Neither AmTrust Financial Services, Inc. nor any of its subsidiaries or affiliates represents or warrants that the information contained herein is appropriate or suitable for any specific business or legal purpose. Readers seeking resolution of specific questions should consult their business and/or legal advisors. Individual coverage may vary and may not be available in all states.