Auto service stores are usually a bit dirty. That’s just the nature of working with cars all day. However, if you keep the space in poor condition, then you might create safety risks for your clients. This might lead to a liability insurance claim, and no business wants to face this
prospect. So, what can you do to keep your business environment safe for your patrons?
Why Avoiding Claims is Important
Maybe one of your workers spills motor oil on the floor of your waiting room. They have not had time to clean it up, when a customer walks in. The customer slips on the oil and falls. They might sustain a concussion, break bones or receive other severe injuries. When this occurs, they might have to seek costly treatment, or take time of work that causes them to lose income.
As a result, the injured party might hold the store responsible for their losses. Therefore, you might have to compensate them. Most businesses do so by letting the injured party file on the store’s liability insurance. Coverage might extend to bodily injuries, property damage and other losses.
Yet, you generally want to avoid making liability claims, on your commercial insurance. Frequent claims might signal to the insurer that your business is a high risk to insure. They might have to raise your policy rates to cover the risk. Some might even cancel your coverage. It is best to put in place safety precautions that help you avoid customer injury risks.
Your In-Store Security Plan
What are some of the ways you can create a safer environment for your customers?
- Never allow customers into the vicinity of work spaces in the garage.
- Spill risks will often prove very prevalent in these stores. Keep an eye out for leaks and spills. Immediately clean up these spills using safe methods. Have plenty of wet floor signs on hand.
- Look above you. If you see the potential for items to fall onto customers, then move them to a more secure area. Or, ask customers to avoid certain areas.
- Walk through the store periodically. Keep an eye out for clutter in heavily-trafficked areas.
- Consider placing non-skid rugs on your floors. This can help reduce slip-and-fall risks.
- Store harmful tools, solvents and other items well out of the reach of clients.
- Mark all prohibited spaces with clear signs.
A comprehensive risk analysis from a professional might also help you make your store safer. Also, if you need help choosing the correct liability insurance, talk to one of our agents today. We are experts in tailoring coverage to different operations.
Also Read: General Liability Insurance: 3 Myths Not to Believe