Safely removing snow and ice is one of the most critical aspects of grounds management, and a successful season starts well before the first snowflake falls, according to an article from Facility Maintenance Decisions on the FacilitiesNet website. For grounds managers, though, winter presents a host of challenges and long nights. 

The return of colder weather is the signal to update their plans to handle winter conditions. Preparations include conducting site assessments to upgrade snow and ice removal plans, assessing the condition of equipment and providing staff orientation and training to ensure productivity and safety.

When the first brisk breeze of fall blows, managers already should be well into the snow and ice management process. Equipment operators have checked the condition of plows and trucks, and managers have placed orders for ice melt and are in the final stages of reviewing their plan for the year. 

The purpose of a snow removal plan is to remove the need to make major decisions on the fly. Why rush a decision when it’s possible to make it months earlier, involving key stakeholders to ensure that the department is providing the service that is needed? The plan should include zones and routing to make sure crews clear high-priority areas first and do not overlook any areas. It should incorporate the equipment available on hand to cover all areas of the property in the most efficient manner possible.

Read the full Facility Maintenance Decisions article.