Ensuring Safety on Commercial Grounds: Best Practices for a Secure Landscape

When managing a commercial property, safety should always be a top priority. A well-maintained landscape not only enhances curb appeal but also plays a crucial role in preventing accidents, reducing liability, and ensuring a safe environment for employees, customers, and visitors. From preventing trip hazards to managing snow and ice, proper landscaping practices can make a significant difference in the safety and functionality of your commercial property.

At OakLawn Landscaping, we specialize in keeping commercial properties throughout Maryland safe and beautiful year-round. Let’s explore the best practices for maintaining a secure landscape on commercial grounds.

1. Identify and Eliminate Trip Hazards

One of the most common safety risks on commercial grounds is uneven surfaces that can lead to trips and falls. Property managers should conduct routine inspections to identify and address these hazards, including:

• Cracked sidewalks and walkways – Uneven pavement can create dangerous walking conditions. Regular repairs and resurfacing can prevent injuries.
• Tree roots lifting pavement – Overgrown roots can cause concrete to crack and buckle. A professional arborist can help determine the best solution, whether it’s root pruning or pathway adjustments.
• Poorly placed or damaged landscape edging – Broken or misplaced edging can create tripping hazards. Ensure all borders are flush with the ground and properly secured.

Regular inspections and timely repairs are crucial for minimizing risks and keeping your property safe.

2. Keep Walkways Clear Year-Round

Accessibility is key to safety, especially on commercial properties where high foot traffic is common. Keeping walkways clear and well-maintained ensures a safer environment. Here’s how:

• Snow and Ice Removal – Maryland winters can be harsh, and ice buildup can lead to dangerous slip-and-fall accidents. A proactive snow removal plan, including de-icing strategies, can help keep walkways safe.
• Leaf and Debris Removal – Wet leaves can be just as slippery as ice. Routine landscape maintenance prevents hazardous buildup.
• Proper Drainage Systems – Poor drainage can lead to standing water and ice formation. Regularly inspect gutters, downspouts, and grading to prevent water accumulation.

3. Maintain Proper Outdoor Lighting

A well-lit commercial property is not only visually appealing but also critical for safety. Proper lighting can deter criminal activity and help pedestrians navigate outdoor spaces safely. Consider these lighting solutions:

• Pathway lighting – Illuminating walkways, staircases, and entrances reduces the risk of trips and falls.
• Motion sensor lighting – Helps improve security and safety after dark, especially in parking lots and remote areas.
• Tree and landscape lighting – Well-lit landscaping enhances visibility and deters intruders.

Regularly inspect and replace broken or dim bulbs to ensure consistent lighting throughout your property.

4. Manage Trees and Shrubs to Reduce Risks

Trees and shrubs add beauty to commercial landscapes, but if not properly maintained, they can become a safety hazard. Overgrown branches, weak limbs, and obstructed sightlines can lead to accidents and property damage. Best practices include:

• Routine tree inspections – A professional arborist can assess tree health and identify weak or diseased branches before they become a danger.
• Proper pruning and trimming – Keeping trees and shrubs neatly trimmed prevents overgrowth from blocking walkways, driveways, or signage.
• Storm damage prevention – Strong winds and heavy snow can cause weak limbs to break. Regular maintenance can prevent damage to vehicles, buildings, and pedestrians.

OakLawn Landscaping offers expert arborist services to ensure your trees remain healthy and safe all year long.

5. Optimize Irrigation and Drainage for Safety

An improperly managed irrigation system can create safety hazards, including slippery surfaces and property damage. To prevent accidents:

• Check for leaks – A broken sprinkler head can cause water to pool on walkways, leading to slip hazards.
• Adjust watering schedules – Overwatering can create muddy patches and slippery conditions. Ensure your irrigation system runs at optimal times.
• Improve drainage systems – Poor drainage can cause water to accumulate near buildings and pathways. French drains, dry creek beds, and proper grading can help direct water away from high-traffic areas.

By maintaining an efficient irrigation system, you can keep your property safe and prevent costly repairs.

6. Implement Seasonal Safety Measures

Each season presents unique challenges when it comes to landscape safety. Proper planning can help mitigate risks throughout the year:

Spring & Summer

• Inspect irrigation systems for leaks or malfunctions.
• Trim trees and shrubs to prevent overgrowth and obstruction.
• Ensure all pathways and common areas are free of debris.

Fall

• Remove fallen leaves to prevent slippery surfaces.
• Conduct a tree risk assessment before winter storms arrive.
• Winterize irrigation systems to prevent frozen pipes.

Winter

• Develop a reliable snow and ice management plan.
• Apply de-icing treatments to walkways and parking lots.
• Ensure all emergency exits remain accessible and free of obstructions.

Proper seasonal maintenance ensures your commercial property remains safe and functional all year long.

7. Reduce Liability with Proactive Maintenance

A well-maintained commercial landscape not only enhances curb appeal but also helps reduce liability risks. Property owners and managers are responsible for ensuring outdoor spaces are safe for tenants, employees, and visitors. A few steps to minimize liability include:

• Regular landscape inspections – Identifying and addressing potential hazards before they cause harm.
• Documenting maintenance efforts – Keeping records of maintenance activities can help protect against legal claims.
• Hiring professional landscaping services – Working with a trusted commercial landscaping company like OakLawn Landscaping ensures that your property is maintained to the highest safety standards.

Partner with OakLawn Landscaping for a Safe and Well-Maintained Commercial Property

Creating and maintaining a safe commercial landscape requires expertise, planning, and consistent upkeep. At OakLawn Landscaping, we specialize in providing top-tier commercial landscaping services to keep your property safe, attractive, and functional year-round.

Whether you need snow and ice management, tree care, irrigation maintenance, or routine landscape upkeep, our experienced team is here to help. Let us take the stress out of property maintenance so you can focus on running your business.

Call us today at 301-854-0684 to schedule a consultation and learn how we can enhance the safety and beauty of your commercial property!