Service reductions, building access and campus safety over the 2023 winter closure

Learn what you can do to prepare for the annual closure.

  • 12 December 2023

The university is closed from Monday, December 25, 2023 to Monday, January 1, 2024. Learn more about getting your space ready, building access, safety while on campus and service reductions.

Building access and closures 

Buildings will require ONEcard or key access during winter closure. If you believe you should have access to a building during the closure period, contact your supervisor or Facilities Services Partner. Note that the InfoLink ONEcard Service Centre will be closed over winter closure.

U of A buildings are closed on weekends and holidays unless otherwise stated. Visit the facilities and building hours web page for information on specific buildings.

Getting your space ready for winter closure

If you work on campus, here’s how to get your office ready when you leave:

  • Clear out any trash from your office and take it to the nearest Zero Waste station
  • Turn off or unplug all electronic devices including heaters, coffee makers, photocopiers, computers and lab equipment
  • Put away and lock up portable items of value (e.g. laptops, cameras) and do not leave them in the open
  • Where possible, remove computer equipment and small property from the floor and place in a higher area in case of water escape
  • Test all alarms and be prepared to respond as required (and/or have a backup ready to fill in), especially where research is at risk or irreplaceable
  • Close and lock all windows and doors on your way out
  • Do a final walkthrough of your space before leaving

There are additional considerations for laboratories and research spaces. View safeguarding your workspace for full instructions on keeping your workspace, office or laboratory safe while you’re away during winter closure.

Safety while on campus over winter closure

Here are some tips to keep in mind if you’re working on campus during winter closure, or just checking in on your space.

  • Be sure to carry your ONEcard, keys and identification at all times.
  • Let others know where you are and carry a cell phone.
  • Use the Lone Worker program.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts. Be confident and direct when interacting with unknown individuals.
  • Contact University of Alberta Protective Services to book an escort across North Campus.
  • If an uncomfortable or dangerous situation arises on a U of A campus, call protective services.
    • 780-492-5050 for North Campus, South Campus and Campus Saint-Jean
    • 780-608-2905 for Augustana Campus 
    • 780-428-1541 for Enterprise Square
  • In an emergency, call 911

Residence supports

Residence students will continue to have 24 hour on-call access to resident assistants. 

All telephone and email inquiries will be addressed when staff return to normal business hours in the new year. Before visiting or contacting a specific service, visit their website to confirm hours of operation and access options.