With the current weather event, the Facilities Grounds Crew and contractor are working steadily to keep campus roadways, sidewalks, walkways, and parking lots free of ice and snow. All reasonable efforts will be made to keep these areas in acceptable condition for pedestrian and vehicular traffic. Small and large winter equipment is typically operational during early morning and daytime hours whenever a snowfall occurs. Staff and students are advised to exercise caution around moving equipment and be cognizant of the potential risk for pedestrians walking near operating equipment.

Please report any hazardous conditions to Client Services (Fixit) by phone at 613-533-6757 between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. (Monday to Friday) or the Emergency Report Centre at 613-533-6080 outside of these hours. For non-urgent grounds concerns please submit a Facilities Work Request (validated account required) or email Client Services (Fixit) care of fixit@queensu.ca.

Winter Safety Tips

Slips and falls are a major cause of injury not only on Queen’s campuses but in all parts of the city. The Facilities Grounds Crew and contractor clear snow from walkways and parking lots and also treat the areas with ice melt and sand. Areas are prioritized according to high traffic use and terrain.

All reasonable efforts are made to ensure that all campuses are safe and free from slip and fall hazards brought on by ice and snow; however, due to the size and separation of our campuses, it’s impossible maintain all areas simultaneously. Please consider the following strategies from Environmental Health & Safety to help you stay upright during the winter season!

1. Adjust your gait: Shorten your stride to keep your centre of gravity supported. Also, walk with your knees slightly bent, as locking your knees reduces your ability to adjust to a slip.
2. Slow down: Take slow, deliberate steps and be on the lookout for icy spots. Place your whole foot down at once, shifting your weight slowly to this foot before stepping with the other foot.
3. Balance your load: Consider wearing a backpack instead of carrying bags in your hands. Backpacks keep your load closer to your centre of gravity. Do not walk with your hands in your pockets for the same reason.
4. Wear appropriate footwear: Footwear with a thick rubber or non-slip soles are recommended. Avoid wearing heels and footwear with minimal tread.
5. Entering/exiting your vehicle: Take care when stepping into/out of your vehicle as you are usually off balance and on only one foot. This increases your chances of slipping.
6. Snow-covered curbs: Exercise caution around snow-covered curbs on paths and roadways.
7. Entering / exiting buildings: Entrance ways may be slippery – exercise caution and report any missing floor mats to Clients Service (Fixit) by phone at 613-533-6757 or email care of fixit@queensu.ca.