When you buy business insurance, you will likely get commercial general liability (CGL) insurance. It can help you if you negligently harm a third party, including physically. So, if someone gets hurt in your business, your CGL policy might help them cover the costs of their losses. However, you must also engage in risk management practices in the first place. That way, you can keep injury risks low. Keep an eye out for some of the common injury risks listed below.

Wet Floors

Someone might slip on a freshly mopped floor. They might suffer injuries - from broken bones to sprains, head and spinal injuries. Any of these might prove costly. To help prevent falls, isolate and mark wet areas using Wet Floor signs. Repair the source of the spill if it comes from a leak. If possible, clean floors and surfaces before or after hours, or during slow periods.

Bathroom Hazards

If you have a restroom, hazards might exist from leaks, malfunctioning water heaters or even broken toilet seats. A primary risk in this space is the risk of a slip-and-fall from leaking pipes. Therefore, routinely clean and mop restrooms and check for damage. If customers complain of a restroom problem, then immediately address the issue.

Falling Objects

At any time, an item in the business might fall from a high position and land on a guest. For example, a heavy box might cause a shelf to collapse and then fall onto someone. It is often best to store heavy items on lower shelves. Require customers to request help assistance getting items off high shelves.

Walkway Hazards

If you don't keep walkways clear, there is a chance someone could trip and fall over an item left lying around. Other hazards in high-traffic areas might include broken flooring or protruding items on low shelves. Walk through the business often and pick up or adjust items that might hinder traffic. Make sure passersby have space to pass one another. If you cannot easily fix a problem, then mark the area as off-limits until repairs occur.

Unsafe Equipment

If you have potentially harmful equipment or sell high-risk items, then someone might get hurt if they get too close. Therefore, only allow customers to use approved equipment with supervision. Particularly unsafe items should go under lock and key.

Always try to put yourself in the place of a customer and think about where you might get hurt in the business. This can help you determine where liability risks lie, and how you can prevent them. Still, if the worst happens, your CGL insurance can help you cover the damage costs of those affected.

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