When heading out for a grocery run, experiencing an injury is probably the last thing on your mind.
However, commercial buildings like grocery stores often pose hidden risks for customers: especially when store owners or managers fail to maintain basic safety protocols.
1. Refrigerator and freezer aisles
Grocery store refrigeration and freezer equipment often must run 24/7 to keep foods safe for consumption. However, if there is a power outage or if equipment begins to fail, these refrigeration units may create leaks and/or pools of condensation on floors that can create a serious hazard for visitors.
2. Produce sections
Fallen fruits and vegetables are always a risk in the produce section. It can be all too easy to slip and fall on crushed produce that creates a slick surface if not attended to quickly. Additionally, produce misters can make walkways dangerously slippery without the presence of sturdy rubber mats.
3. Entryways and exits
Entryways and exits often receive a lot of foot traffic. That can mean displaced or disordered rugs that can create serious tripping hazards. Additionally, during times of inclement weather, visitors may track in water, snow or other debris. Without proper entryway mats, excess moisture on floors can make it difficult for customers to navigate safely.
Store owners and employees may not be able to reasonably prevent all accidents on the premises. However, businesses do have a basic duty to monitor spaces for potential hazards, respond quickly when risk is present and inform customers when staff cannot attend to issues immediately. Those facing injuries related to a preventable slip-and-fall-incident should know that help may be available under the law.