When a winter storm dumps heavy amounts of snow, cleaning professionals may decide to skip applying ice melt as long as parking lots and sidewalks are shoveled. But this can be a dangerous and costly mistake. Underneath the snow is a thin, but slippery layer of ice that needs to be removed with ice melter in order to prevent slip-and-fall accidents.

Ice melt also needs to be used during light snowfalls. Even a dusting of snow can lead to slippery conditions if it melts and later refreezes.

Falls are a huge liability for facilities and cleaning professionals. Many businesses are required by law to take action during a storm to prevent slips and falls. By doing nothing, companies and cleaning professionals can be held liable if there is an accident.