Snow and Ice Removal
Edmonton is a winter city, so it’s no surprise that snow and ice accumulates on campus during colder months. Snow and ice are continuously being cleared and coated with sand to keep campus safe for pedestrians and vehicles.
How work is prioritized
Timing of snow and ice removal will vary based on the volume and type of snow. It could take up to 24 hours to clear the main roads and routes.
If there is still a spot that hasn’t been cleared after 24 hours, or if there is an especially slippery spot in a high traffic area that needs immediate attention, submit a maintenance request.
The order of priority for snow and ice removal is:
- Sidewalk ramps, curb cuts and parking stalls used by those with a disability
- Main building entrances and emergency road access points
- Sidewalks
- Roads and parking lots
- Snow piles and windrows created during clearing
When required, the sidewalks are sanded twice a day - once in the morning and once in the afternoon.
On North Campus, work begins at 4 a.m. in the core of campus at the bus loop and moves outwards. This also allows Edmonton bylaws to be obeyed which require surrounding neighborhoods not be disturbed by loud noises early in the morning.
Maps
- North Campus: Pathways | Parastalls/loading docks | Grader routes | Snow clearing
- South Campus: Pathways | Roads | Snow clearing
- Campus Saint-Jean: Snow clearing
What you can do
Address slippery spots
- If there is still a spot that hasn’t been cleared after 24 hours, or if there is an especially slippery spot in a high traffic area that needs immediate attention, submit a maintenance request.
- If there is a sandbox nearby, sprinkle the area with sand until it can be cleared.
- When entering buildings, clean your boots to avoid creating slippery puddles of melted snow.
Dress appropriately
- Check the forecast to ensure you’re not underdressed for the weather.
- Choose footwear that has rubber soles with tread instead of ones with smooth soles. If you prefer to wear something else indoors, keep an extra pair of shoes in your bag or you can rent a locker in HUB.
Commute safely
- Put your phone in your pocket and keep your eyes on the path ahead of you.
- Take your time, walk like a penguin, use handrails and try to stick to paths that have been cleared.
- Keep a safe distance from machinery clearing the snow. Never assume they can see you and only proceed passing them once they stop moving and make eye contact.