December is traditionally considered the start of winter—and in many parts of the country, it heralds the arrival of the first snow. And while the fluffy white stuff might be pretty to look at, it also means that we should prepare our supply chains now for the return of winter weather.
That means different things for different parts of the supply chain, of course. For instance, if you oversee fleet operations, you’ll want to make sure the vehicles have proper tires for winter roads and that their heaters are functioning properly. This is also a good time to top off antifreeze and other fluid levels, replace windshield wipers, and check heating systems in any trailers that haul goods that would be damaged if they were to freeze.
Also, make sure truck routing systems are up to date with any restrictions for winter driving, such as roads where chains are required. It’s also a good idea to avoid roads that are not properly plowed, salted, or otherwise treated. With many subsidies cut back this year, we can’t always count on states and local governments having the money or crews to care for roads as they once did.
Industrial facilities also need to prepare for winter. Insurance sources report that frozen pipes damage approximately 250,000 facilities annually. Make sure you have backup generators to ensure that heat can be maintained in your buildings at all times.
Now is also the time to check for any structural gaps where cold air and animals could enter. A mouse needs only an opening the size of a dime to set up camp in your facility. Once inside, mice and other rodents can chew on exposed wires or damage inventory. Carefully check any areas where electrical and plumbing lines enter the building, as they are often where gaps are found, possibly from deteriorated caulking.
Gaps are also common around dock doors. Good dock sealing equipment can eliminate these gaps, keeping cold air and varmints out and warm air in. Our friends at Rite-Hite say that good loading dock seals can save up to $7,000 annually per door opening.
A major cost for facilities is heating the building. To help control these expenses, consider installing high-volume, low-speed (HVLS) ceiling fans. These capture the warm air that naturally rises and push it back down to floor level. These fans can save about 25% on a facility’s heating bill.
Also, make sure that entryways and dock areas are free of ice and snow. That includes interior dock areas where colder air from open doors can cause any spilled liquids to freeze.
Taking a few precautions now can save a lot of angst in the months to come. And remember, spring is just around the corner.
