Like many industries, gyms have had it tough this year. The full impact of COVID-19 is still unknown, and could potentially reshape the future of business as usual across many sectors.
For gyms and fitness professionals, the impact of COVID-19 has meant business closures, implementing heightened safety measures and following stricter cleaning processes. For many gym business owners, it has definitely been a time of increased stress trying to ensure all gym facilities are COVID-safe.
But with more robust cleaning procedures, a growing number of gyms are experiencing issues with the protective oil layers being taken off metal bars, rubber grips and other surfaces which is resulting in rust. Alcohol-based products can also dissolve protective screen films on touch screens and make them slow and unresponsive. Similarly, the protective films on leather and plastic seats and benches are discolouring, drying out and cracking.
Rust and metal corrosion can weaken your equipment and machines, wear them out quicker than they should and make them a hazard for your clients.
Does Insurance Cover Wear & Tear From Cleaning Chemicals?
Corrosion, rust and similar types of wear and tear are not usually not covered by property and contents insurance policies. The generally accepted view in the eyes of insurers is that long-term deterioration can be avoided with proper maintenance and upkeep, or in other words, you should’ve taken the necessary steps to address the issues. On the other hand, if for example your roof collapsed and water damaged your equipment in a similar way, you would be covered as you can identify the event that caused the damage or loss.
Kitting your gym out with the best equipment isn’t cheap, which is why it’s important to maintain it properly at all costs. Luckily, there are some handy, cost-effective tips to prevent deterioration from cleaning and disinfectant chemicals.
How to Protect Your Gym Equipment From Cleaning Chemicals
A simple solution to prevent most of the damage caused by cleaning chemicals is using automotive car products. For items that have deteriorated, you may be able to get an auto trimmer to recover benches which would be much cheaper than replacing items. You could also get rusted items soda blasted (which is a bit like sandblasting but softer) and the metal refinished by an applicable electroplating/anodising//powder coating company instead of buying new equipment.
You should avoid cleaning your gym machinery and equipment with products containing alcohol, bleach, hydrogen peroxide and ammonia. If in doubt, always check the label to check the chemical ingredients in your products.
Gym Insurance HQ is a leading insurance broker for gym and fitness businesses in Australia. Our specialist brokers take the hassle out of organising insurance, recommending the most competitive and comprehensive coverage to meet your needs. For a tailored quote or advice, get in touch with our team on 1300 815 344 or visit our website for more information.