What Are The Most Common Small Business Mishaps During The Fall?

Now that we’ve reached the middle of October, we’re beginning to feel the onset of chilly days. As all Canadians know, there are many ahead. For business owners, colder temperatures can wreak havoc on daily operations. From longer commutes during storms to damage due to precipitation and wind, the problems caused by inclement weather must be prepared for.

Of course, weather issues are far from the only problems that business owners endure this time of year. Let’s look at some of most common small business mishaps during the fall.  

An increase in illnesses.

Unfortunately, the fall is notorious for being flu season. Coughing, sneezing, fevers and other symptoms can spread pretty quickly among your employees. Naturally, this can create a big increase in absenteeism. Be sure to promote good hygiene practices within your workplace. It’s also a good idea to consider implementing flexible work-from-home policies or staggered shifts if you haven’t already. Doing so will minimize contact and maintain productivity.

The Public Health Agency of Canada also stresses the importance of good ventilation. “Opening windows or doors regularly, even for a few minutes at a time, creates a cross-breeze and can improve natural ventilation,” says their website, “If your indoor space has vents in the ceiling, walls or floor, then it probably uses a central heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system. Ensuring this system has clean, well-maintained air filters can help reduce the levels of infectious respiratory particles indoors.”

Power outages.

As you know, severe storms can lead to blackouts. Of course, when your place of business is without electricity, it can lead to lost sales. If you own a food business, you will also have to be concerned about spoiled inventory. It’s really smart to invest in a reliable backup generator. This will keep your essential equipment running so that you can maintain critical operations. As well, have backup batteries on hand for emergency lighting.

BC Hydro reminds us to practice a “safety first” approach to any power outage. “Safety should be the most important consideration for you and your employees,” insists their site, “If a power line has come down or been damaged on or near your property, treat this as an emergency. Keep yourself and others at least 10 metres away (the length of a city bus) and call 9-1-1 to report.”

Workplace accidents.

On the 3^rd of November, Daylight Saving Time will end. The yearly “fall back” practice of turning our clocks back one hour will ensure that the days get a lot shorter. We’re talking about dark skies before the afternoon transitions into the evening. Because of the decrease in daylight hours, it makes it possible for slips and falls to become more common. This is especially true if there are wet or icy surfaces in and around your place of business. It’s vital to keep your workplace well-lit. This includes parking lots, walkways and entryways.

Be sure, as well, that your company’s holiday decorations and displays don’t become tripping hazards. Workplace Safety & Prevention Services reports that a quick slip on a concrete surface or tripping over a power cord can have a life-altering result. “In fact, according to WSIB claims from 2021 to 2022 among the sectors that WSPS serves, falls on the same level (i.e., slips and trips) are causing injuries more frequently than falls from heights,” their website reveals.

How can Synergy Merchants help?

For many years, our clients have used our merchant cash advance program to get through their emergency situations. To learn all about how we can help your business handle a common small business mishap during the fall, please don’t hesitate to call us at 1-877-718-2026 or email us at info@synergymerchants.com. You can also apply online for a free, no obligation quote!