Snow and ice can be challenging to remove from driveways, sidewalks and stoops. It can also be dangerous.
It’s important to warm up your muscles before shoveling and to take frequent breaks. It’s also important to drink water to avoid dehydration. A popular alternative to rock salt and shoveling is a snow melting mat, which can be placed in walkways or entryways for a hands-free solution. Keep reading the article below to learn more about Snow Removal Cost.
Snow removal can be a time-consuming and physically demanding task. It is best done in stages rather than attempting to clear everything at once. It puts less strain on equipment and prevents overloading, while also allowing for more thorough snow removal. For commercial properties with specific needs or large areas to plow, this method can save time and money in the long run. It is important to always move cars and trucks off the street, stay 3 car lengths back from any snowplow as it moves through your area, and do not place trash cans or other items in the street. This helps ensure the driver can see the plow and minimizes any possible collisions.
Snow that sits too long becomes compacted and icy, creating safety hazards for pedestrians. It is critical to focus on priority spaces like walkways, entrances and high-traffic areas first. These can be slippery even with the application of deicing products, so making sure these areas are fully cleared as soon as possible will help reduce accidents.
Efficient snow removal also keeps property access open and allows for normal business operations to continue. Customers are more likely to visit a shop or office that is easily accessible and free of debris and snow, which can also boost brand image. It’s a good idea to have a snow removal plan in place before the season starts, identifying priority areas, such as parking lots, loading docks and pathways, that need to be addressed quickly.
Professional snow removal services can save business owners time and money by providing timely and comprehensive snow removal. They can utilize specialized equipment designed to target tight spots that are impossible or impractical for smaller plowing machines to reach. They are also familiar with local ordinances and requirements and can help ensure that properties are in compliance.
Many professional snow removal services are locally owned and operated, which can contribute to a sustainable economy. They may also use environmentally-friendly de-icing products that are safer for the environment than traditional salt. They can also work with clients to create a custom snow management plan that suits their individual needs.
Take advantage of natural breaks.
If possible, workers should try to clear snow during natural breaks in the storm. This prevents the snow from becoming hard-packed or too deep to handle. It also minimizes the need to clear ice that can be dangerous to pedestrians and cars alike.
Starting early also allows employees to spread a layer of salt as they work, which helps to control the formation of ice and make the area safer for pedestrians and drivers. In addition, workers should remember to hydrate regularly to avoid dehydration and the potential for injury. It’s important to listen for signs of fatigue and aches in the back or legs. These can be a sign of muscle injuries, which are common in snow removal.
When workers do need to lift, they should use proper lifting techniques and never load a shovel more than half-full. Shoveling with a full load can cause back injuries and lead to over-exertion. In addition, workers should take frequent, 20-minute breaks to rest their bodies and rehydrate. This will help to keep them from overheating, which can be a danger in extreme cold weather. It will also help to reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke, which can occur when lifting heavy, repetitive movements are performed for prolonged periods.
Work as a team.
Snow removal is a fast-paced job where every second counts. To keep things running smoothly, the entire snow removal team should work as a cohesive unit. To do this, teams should use a system of quick codes and signals to communicate with each other. This saves time, minimizes confusion, and prevents misunderstandings that could lead to costly mistakes.
For example, a common code used for snow removal is “Route Clear,” which means that the road or path is clear and safe to proceed. Another code is “Hazard,” which alerts the crew to a specific issue, such as black ice or a stalled vehicle.
These short codes help snow removal crews stay focused and on task. They also make it easier for managers to monitor the progress of each worker and ensure that all areas are being addressed. Using these communication tools helps snow removal professionals maintain the high levels of customer service that their clients have come to expect.
Municipalities face unique challenges when it comes to managing snowplow operations. According to Routware, a fleet management solution for snowplows, operational efficiency is a top priority for municipalities because it has direct implications for emergency services, city operations, and resident satisfaction. However, achieving optimal efficiency is challenging because it requires the right mix of technology and training.
Investing in a comprehensive snowplow management software, such as RUBICON SmartCity, can help cities optimize their entire snow operation and reduce costs. This tool allows them to set street priority, view the location of all vehicles at once, provide digital turn-by-turn directions to drivers, and track route progress, number of passes, and completion.
Businesses can also improve their snow removal operations by implementing enhanced safety measures that minimize slip-and-fall accidents. This can include prioritizing timely snow clearing, regularly salting walkways and parking lots, and providing clear signage and lighting to guide customers to safety. Lastly, affordable snow removal services offer reliable ice management strategies to maintain a safe business environment during the winter months.
By combining effective communication strategies, such as durable two-way radios and GPS tracking, with structured check-ins and a dedicated safety plan, you can create a snow removal process that is both efficient and effective. Contact MRC Wireless to learn more about how our solutions can boost the performance of your snow removal team.
Don’t attempt it yourself.
A motivated homeowner may be able to remove snow himself, but doing so without the proper tools can be both time-consuming and dangerous. Snow removal equipment such as plow attachments or blowers can cost hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars each. Additionally, homeowners often face health risks when working in cold weather conditions like dehydration, hypothermia or frostbite.
Professionals in the industry are able to save time and energy with the right strategies, like pre-treating surfaces or using ergonomic shovels designed to reduce strain on the body. In addition, a strong focus on efficient work practices allows them to clear large areas faster and keep public spaces safe.
During a snowstorm, it’s best to plan ahead and survey the area prior to beginning. This will help you determine the most efficient route and prevent doubling back over areas already cleared. Similarly, be careful where you pile snow, as blocking visibility for drivers and pedestrians can pose serious safety concerns.
It’s also a good idea to clear snow in intervals throughout the duration of a storm. Doing so reduces the overall workload and prevents snow from compacting into hard ice layers that are more difficult to remove. If you have a roof, it is also important to remove snow in a systematic way to avoid damaging the structure and causing water leaks.
In some cases, utilizing vehicle attachments can speed up the process significantly by allowing workers to reach harder-to-reach areas. This is especially helpful when clearing larger commercial properties or expansive city streets, where the use of manual tools would be impractical and slow. However, even in these situations, it is important to maintain attention to detail by using manual tools for the most intricate areas, such as tight corners or walkways around obstacles.