Some Georgia companies have small oil leaks that can happen either inside or outside of their buildings. These leaks are important to try to correct because they can lead to slip, trip and fall injuries for people who are legally present on the premises.
Small oil leaks present a particular hazard. When they mix with water, the oil can float to the surface and make the ground very slippery. People may then slip and fall, seriously injuring themselves. When a company’s business involves using oil and leaks happen, the company should take proactive measures to try to repair the leaks and to prevent the oil from pooling and mixing with water.
Some companies try simply placing buckets under leaking areas. The problem with this approach is that when it rains, the water can cause the oil to float to the surface and spill over the sides, creating the same problem that the company was attempting to correct. Businesses should try to repair the leak source to stop the leak completely. Until it can be repaired, they might want to try using spilltration products, which are newer items that collect oil while letting rainwater pass through without bringing the oil with it.
In addition to repairing the leaks and using products to soak up oil, companies should also take the time to place warnings around existing leaks. Letting people know that a surface is slippery can help prevent them from slipping and falling. A property owner who fails to correct a hazardous or dangerous condition could be held financially responsible if a person is injured as a result. An attorney who handles premises liability litigation can often be of assistance in seeking compensation on behalf of an injured victim.