According to Direct Line for Business, if members of the public were to slip on ice on a business’ premises and the owner had not undertaken the appropriate action, such as clearing the ice or placing relevant warning signs, they could potentially be liable if a claim was made. Businesses need to ensure they are able to demonstrate due care had been taken to minimise the likelihood of an accident.

Kate Syred, Head of Direct Line for Business says: “With the recent snow fall now turning into ice, it is essential that business owners think about how to mitigate any potential dangers for their customers and staff. It is also worth ensuring they have the appropriate insurance in the event of any accidents, as although employers’ liability insurance is compulsory by law, public liability is not.”

In addition to potential accidents such as people slipping on ice or water, melting snow drifts and ice can also be hazardous. In order to mitigate the risks, Direct Line has the following tips for businesses:

• If members of the public or employees use any part of a business’ premises such as a walkway, it is essential any ice is cleared or gritted accordingly. Even if a pedestrian walked across a shop’s forecourt or a pub’s car park and slipped, the business owner could be liable.

• Ice and snow also mean wet floors, so it is essential it is either mopped up or warning signs are placed notifying people of the potential risk. Remember, if a floor has been mopped up it may still be slippery so warning signs should still be used.

• Snow melting and falling from roofs can also be a danger. Whilst no attempt should be made to climb onto a roof to remove it, action should be taken to cordon off the area where the snow might fall onto unsuspecting pedestrians and appropriate warning signs placed around the area.

• Staff should be appropriately trained and aware of the correct action to take. The business owner may not be there all the time, so it is essential employees are aware of any potential dangers and how to deal with or avoid them.

For more information contact:

Simon Henrick
Direct Line Press office
020 8313 5965
07833 166717
Email: Simon.henrick@rbs.co.uk

Notes to editors:

Direct Line for Business

Launched in 2007 Direct Line for Business provides a range of insurance products for the small business sector direct by phone or on-line.

Direct Line for Business is part of RBS Insurance, the second largest general insurer in the UK and is wholly owned by the Royal Bank of Scotland Group. Customers can find out more about Direct Line for Business products or get a quote by calling 0845 303 1760 or visiting http://www.directline.com

Direct Line Insurance plc is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Registered office: 3 Edridge Road, Croydon, Surrey CR9 1AG. Registered in England and Wales no. 01810801. The Financial Services Authority's Register can be accessed through http://www.fsa.gov.uk/register

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