The Dangers of Winter Storms – how to secure your premises from cold and snow

When discussing climate change and the natural catastrophes increasing with it, we tend to focus on warm whether related hazards such as storms, hurricanes and wildfires, but winter storms can bring just as much damages. They mainly occur between December and February and the speed of the wind can reach impressive levels, particularly in coastal and high-altitude areas. The maximum wind speeds are usually associated with strong winter storms, including extratropical cyclones (commonly knows as “Norwegian lows”) and blizzards which often develop in the North Atlantic and move across the region. The highest recorded wind speed in the Nordics was 73.5m/s, recorded in the Lofoten Islands in Norway during a particularly intense storm 1993?.

There are several risks connected to winter storms but for businesses, it is important to be aware of all of the different exposures.

 

Property Damage, structural damage

One of the most immediate and visible impacts of winter storms is property damage. Heavy snowfall can cause roofs to collapse, while freezing temperatures can lead to frozen/burst pipes and water damage. Ensure a robust heating system that is capable of handling extreme cold. Regular maintenance checks on boilers, heat pumps, and radiators should be scheduled. For construction sites secure scaffolding and secure and cover building materials as appropriate. High winds and ice accumulation can also cause structural damage to buildings and facilities. Snow accumulation can cause significant structural damage if not managed properly. Regularly inspect roofs to ensure they can bear the weight of snow and keep gutters clear to prevent ice dams, consider snow guards on roofs to prevent large snowfalls from sliding off unexpectedly, posing a risk to people below as well as make sure to remove snow from roofs to prevent collapse, i.e. have a snow removal plan.

Falling trees and branches can also damage roofs, vehicles, fences and cut power lines unexpectedly. Commercial insurance policies typically cover these types of damages, but it is essential for businesses to review their coverage limits and ensure they have adequate protection in place.

 

Business Interruption

Winter storms can lead to business interruptions, either by preventing employees from getting to work or by causing power outages and other disruptions. Given the frequency of winter storms, power outages are quite common in the Nordic region. Invest in generators, especially if your business relies on critical functions that require uninterrupted power as well as ensure that backup systems are tested regularly. Business interruption insurance can help companies recover lost income and cover ongoing expenses during periods when normal operations are halted due to an indemnifiable damage. Companies should evaluate their policies to ensure they include coverage for winter storm-related interruptions and understand the specific terms and conditions. As well as actively evaluate the exposure and prepare loss prevention plans.

 

Employee Safety

The safety of employees is a top priority during winter storms. Slippery sidewalks and parking lots, icy roads, and poor visibility can lead to slip and fall accidents and injuries. This is one of the most common winter-related claims in Nordic countries. Employers should implement safety protocols, such as timely snow and ice removal, providing appropriate winter gear, and encouraging remote work when travel conditions are hazardous. Workers' compensation insurance is vital for covering medical expenses and lost wages if an employee is injured on the job due to winter storm conditions.

 

Supply Chain Disruptions

Winter storms can disrupt supply chains, delaying delivery of goods and raw materials and affecting inventory levels. This is particularly important for industries that rely on just-in-time inventory or international supply chains. Businesses should have contingency plans in place to manage these disruptions, such as diversifying suppliers, maintaining higher inventory levels during winter months, and investing in technology to improve supply chain visibility. Commercial insurance policies may offer coverage for supply chain disruptions, but companies need to understand the specifics of their policies.

 

Vehicle Fleet Risks

For businesses that rely on vehicle fleets, winter storms present additional risks. Icy roads and poor visibility increase the likelihood of accidents, while cold temperatures can affect vehicle performance. Companies should ensure their commercial auto insurance policies are up-to-date and provide adequate coverage for winter-related incidents. Regular maintenance and equipping vehicles with winter tires, antifreeze and emergency kits (blankets, food, water and a first aid kit) can also help mitigate risks.

 

Flooding and Water Damage

After heavy snowfall, rapid thawing can lead to large amounts of meltwater, which can overwhelm drainage systems, resulting in flooding. This is a particular risk in areas near rivers or on lower ground. Check the building´s drainage system regularly to ensure water flows away from the foundation. In flood-prone areas, consider installing sump pumps or water barriers to prevent damage. Make sure all outdoor fixtures are properly winterized. Drained disconnect all exterior water systems to prevent freezing and rupture. As snow accumulates roofs and melts, it can re-freeze in gutters, forming ice dams that prevent proper drainage. This can cause water to leak into the building, damaging ceilings, walls and electrical systems.

 

Environmental Considerations and Sustainability

Since there is an increasing focus on environmental sustainability, when using de-icing products, opt for more eco-friendly alternatives to traditional salt or sand. Invest in energy-efficient heating, lightning, and insulation to keep costs low and reduce your business´s carbon footprint during the colder months.

 

Liability Concerns

Winter storms can lead to increased liability risks for businesses if they are operating in certain areas in the world. For example, if a customer slips and falls on icy premises, the company could be held liable for the injury. General liability insurance can cover legal fees and settlements in such cases, but businesses should take preventive measures, such as prompt snow and ice removal and clear signage, to reduce the likelihood of accidents.

 

Key considerations for Nordic businesses

Severe Weather - Be prepared for extreme cold, heavy snow, ice storms and blizzards.
Employee Welfare – Allow flexibility in working from home and be proactive to ensure the employees have the proper training and resources to stay safe.
Business Continuity – Ensure that your business can continue operating during winter disruptions, particularly in industries reliant on data, transportation, or physical production.

 

Businesses in the Nordics can mitigate winter-related risks, keep their employees safe, and ensure business continuity during the toughest winter conditions.To address the common loss scenarios, companies in the Nordics should invest in proactive winter storm preparedness, including:

• Regular maintenance of roofs, drainage systems, and heating systems.
• Emergency power backup systems.
• Snow and ice removal plans for both indoors and outdoors.
• Employee training on winter safety and health risks.
• Comprehensive insurance policies covering storm-related damage, business interruption and liability.

 

By preparing in advance and adopting a comprehensive winter risk management strategy, businesses in the Nordics can minimize the impact of winter storms and protect their assets, employees, and operations.

 

For more information on how Zurich can help to secure your business against winter storms, please contact Karin Forssman, Nordic Head of Property and Engineering Lines.