Five Summer Risks for Which Every Business Must Prepare
Summer is a time for growth, travel, and outdoor events—but for many businesses, it’s also a season of higher risks. From extreme weather to increased cybersecurity threats, business owners need to stay vigilant.
Here are five common summer-related risks to be aware of, and how to prepare your organization for them:
1. Heat-Related Workplace Hazards
Risk: Employees who work outdoors or in non-air-conditioned spaces face higher risks of heat exhaustion, dehydration, and even heatstroke.
Tips to Mitigate:
- Review OSHA’s guidelines on heat safety.
- Provide shaded break areas, hydration stations, and cooling periods.
- Adjust shifts to avoid peak afternoon heat where possible.
- Ensure your workers’ compensation policy covers heat-related injuries.
2. Summer Storm Damage
Risk: Thunderstorms, high winds, and flooding are common in the Northeast during summer. Power outages or property damage can cause costly downtime.
Tips to Mitigate:
- Review your property and business interruption coverage.
- Develop or update your business continuity and disaster recovery plans.
- Secure outdoor signage and equipment before storms hit.
- Make sure electrical systems are surge-protected.
3. Increased Vacation-Related Cyber Risks
Risk: With more employees working remotely or vacationing, there’s a greater chance of cybersecurity lapses—especially on unsecured devices or networks.
Tips to Mitigate:
- Remind staff to use VPNs and secure passwords while traveling.
- Update cyber liability insurance to reflect today’s threats.
- Reassess who has access to sensitive data and systems.
- Conduct a quick summer cybersecurity refresher for all staff.
4. Facility Maintenance Disregard
Risk: With skeleton crews or shifting schedules, some businesses put off routine inspections, leaving them vulnerable to costly surprises.
Tips to Mitigate:
- Schedule preventive HVAC, plumbing, and fire system inspections now.
- Revisit your equipment breakdown and general liability coverage.
- Document all maintenance efforts in case of claims later.
5. Event Liability Exposure
Risk: Hosting or sponsoring summer events—like golf outings, employee BBQs, or local fairs—can open your business up to new liabilities.
Tips to Mitigate:
- Check event liability coverage (including alcohol-related incidents).
- Use signed waivers and certificates of insurance for vendors.
- Consider special event insurance for large-scale functions.
Summer can be a productive, profitable season—but only if you plan for the unique risks that come with it. Having an independent risk management partner to guide your organization can help avoid or minimize the impact of these risks on your company’s bottom line.
If you have any questions on how to mitigate any of the risks described or would like to discuss any other risk and insurance related issues for your business, please contact Albert Sica at asica@thealsgroup.com or 732.395.4251.
