Grit bins for businesses: 5 myths you need to stop believing

The recent cold snap and the weather warnings for snow and ice have seen the gritters out on the roads. But have you got your business premises covered? Every business worth its salt invests in grit bins. See what we did there? These durable containers are your defence against slips, trips, and accidents once the chill sets in. Beyond safety, grit bins are also about keeping your business moving. Snow and ice can slow deliveries and disrupt operations. When bins are visible, stocked, and placed where they’re needed most, they help businesses stay resilient. In this article, we’re going to bust some myths about the humble grit bin.

Myth: Grit only works after snow falls

It’s a common misconception that grit only works once there’s snow and ice on the ground. However, grit (rock salt) is most effective before ice even forms. That's why you see the gritters working overnight to treat the roads when cold weather is forecast. When spread early, the salt mixes with moisture on the ground to create a brine solution that freezes at a lower temperature than plain water. This stops ice from bonding to the surface in the first place, making paths and car parks far safer to walk and drive on. Rock salt is effective down to around –9°C so put it down before the freeze, and you’ll prevent the slippery conditions that cause accidents.

Tip: The Met Office advises considering gritting if the air temperature is forecast to fall between 0°C and 4°C on a night with little or no cloud and light winds.

Myth: Council grit bins are enough

Ever been tempted to ‘borrow’ some grit from a council grit bin? That’s a no go. Council grit bins are only there for public roads and pavements so residents can keep their area safe. They’re not intended for private use, and taking grit for your own site is classed as misuse. Businesses are responsible for gritting their own premises so if you haven’t already, invest in a grit bin, or several, depending on the size of your site. That way, you can keep car parks, loading bays, and pathways safe for staff and visitors.

Myth: One grit bin covers a whole site

One grit bin may be enough, but if you have large car parks, a multi-level site, or multiple entrances, you’ll probably need several. A single grit bin tucked away in a corner won’t help staff who need to navigate icy patches as they walk from one building to another. Be strategic about your bin placements to ensure as much of your site is covered as possible.

Tip: Smart grit bin placement is all about accessibility, visibility, and covering the areas of your site most at risk of ice. If your site needs several bins, here are some of the best places to locate them:

Near main entrances:

Staff and visitors often gather here, so keeping steps and doorways safe is crucial.

Car parks and loading bays:

In high-traffic areas where vehicles and pedestrians mix, quick access to grit reduces accidents.

Pathways between buildings:

On multi-level or spread-out sites, bins along connecting walkways prevent slips and falls.

Bottom of slopes or ramps:

Ice is more dangerous on inclines, so bins here allow fast treatment of these high-risk spots.

Near stairways:

Outdoor steps are particularly hazardous in frost. A visible and accessible grit bin encourages proactive gritting.

Fire exits:

These are often overlooked, but safe emergency access is a legal requirement.

Myth: Grit harms the environment

Have you ever heard that grit is bad for the environment? There’s an element of truth in it, but it’s not the whole story. What is true is that if too much grit is used, it can affect soil and plants. That’s because salt draws water away from roots and can affect the healthy balance of the soil. Ever seen the roadside grass verges looking a bit worse for wear after winter? Heavy grit use could be part of the reason.

When rain or melting snow washes away the grit, the dissolved salt solution also flows into nearby drains, soil, and eventually waterways. This raises the chloride levels in the water, which isn’t great for aquatic life. However, the good news is that grit bins can actually help reduce the impact on the environment. By keeping salt dry and easy to spread, they make it much simpler to use the right amount instead of overusing it. Though if you’re looking for a greener option, there are eco-friendly blends available that are less harsh on plants and surfaces.

Myth: Grit bins are only for winter

It’s easy to think that you only need grit bins in the winter. However, they can be an important addition to your site all year round. For example, they can be used to store sand for extinguishing small fuel spills or smothering flames in outdoor areas. Some businesses change their use depending on the conditions. Their grit bins double up as grit storage in the colder months and sandbag storage for flood defences at any time of the year. 

UK winters have a habit of catching us off guard, and the recent cold snap is a reminder of how quickly the snow and ice can disrupt daily life. Grit bins are a savvy investment in helping your business stay prepared. If you’re reviewing your winter readiness, take a look at our range of grit bins. They’re durable, easy to spot, and available in a range of size and specs to help you stay one step ahead when the weather turns.