COVID-19 and Property Risk

Many facilities are closing around the United States to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Although COVID-19 is one of the most extraordinary risks right now, Cities should remember that there are still other ongoing risks that are considered serious, such as property risk. With spring also just around the corner, flooding and even existing high-water tables creating water infiltration into a building can become issues.  Property risk can include fires, vandalism and theft, and roof damage. Facilities left idle or understaffed can cause these properties to be vulnerable.  There are things you can do.

FM Global released an article with recommendations to help protect City facilities during COVID-19, which include the following:

• Essential personnel: Consider contacting authorities and having them be aware that the security and maintenance personnel on your site are essential.
• Active security: Consider daily inspections at idle facilities to look for things such as criminal activity, smoke, fire or other property damage. Consider installing cameras and sensors to detect activity.
• Fire protection: Maintenance should be checking sprinkler valves daily to ensure they are locked open. Any ignitable liquid and debris should be removed. Special emphasis should be placed on any welding and hot work being done.
• Flood protection: Spring is upon us, consider elevating equipment and having flood barriers present.
• Maintenance: Consider continuing daily maintenance activities, as well as any overdue maintenance such as fixing a small roof leak. Leaving maintenance untreated could cause bigger issues, not to mention the cost associated with those issues.

As a reminder, the League Loss Control staff has property resources, which include checklists for Cities to use.  Many of these resources address the concerns mentioned above.  Even if the building is not officially closed, routine inspections can help prevent losses. If you do not have these resources and are interesting in having them, please contact your Loss Control Representative.

Submitted by: Kate Connell, Loss Control Consultant