Harsh weather, blackouts and dangerous operating conditions all have a debilitating effect on productivity. That’s a fact we know all too well in the Midwest of the United States. Whether you’re facing heavy snow, high winds, electrical storms or spells of extreme cold or warm temperatures, it’s critical to take measures to mitigate risks and keep your business moving full steam ahead.
If you’re worried about how your team will respond the next time you experience challenging conditions, consider these four primary tips for reducing weather-related downtime.
Stock Up
Right before inclement weather arrives or an emergency or natural disaster strikes is the worst possible time to scramble around looking for the products you require. Get ahead of the weather, so to speak, by taking the initiative to gear up with everything you know you’ll require in virtually any weather-related situation.
In addition to having a standby power source and related products to back up your mission-critical tools and systems, items such as temperature control equipment, water pumps, rain tarps, bottled water, protective apparel for employees, ice melt and snow shovels are a good idea to have for all different types of businesses.
Practice Readiness
During a severe weather event, it’s natural for employees to feel additional stress and concern that can leave them in a state of confusion. The best way to counteract this is by readying your employees with training, practice drills and procedures for responding to all possible scenarios.
Each member of the team and specific units should have a clear understanding of what they’re responsible for in emergency situations. This could include conducting safety assessments and checklists, securing and protecting critical equipment and a variety of other related tasks.
Communicate
Another way to give your staff the confidence to perform when the weather is a factor is by maintaining open lines of communication. Send out emails or text alerts informing employees of the likelihood of impending bad weather, provide reminders to ensure an appropriate response based on the particular weather conditions and follow-up in the aftermath regarding updates to schedule changes, travel advisories and anything else that could impact daily operations.
Partner for Solutions
Weather is known to be unpredictable. There’s no telling what challenges a winter blizzard, tornado or electrical storm might bring. Having a relationship with a trusted local dealer enables you to access the products and services you require to avoid conditions resulting in downtime. From emergency, same-day rentals and field services to comprehensive contingency planning and site support, it’s an advantage to be able to find everything you’re looking for from a single, reliable source.
Occasional bad weather is an unavoidable reality. Don’t let the natural elements negatively impact your business’s bottom line. For more information on reducing weather-related downtime, get in touch with Michigan CAT today. As the authorized Cat® dealer for the region, we offer a massive selection of new, used and rental equipment, power system solutions, parts, services and so much more.