In response to the December snow events, Building Operations recognized that UBC needed some new tools to help prevent build-up of snow and ice on sidewalks and narrow pathways. UBC has now purchased small brining units that can fit on our small Kubota tractors that can fit between buildings and on narrow walkways. Now brine can be spread before the snow falls or before a heavy overnight frost to prevent the snow and ice from sticking which assists with clearing and encourages quicker melting.
Equipment is important, but it also takes a huge labour effort to clear all of the campus walkways. To create a more flexible response, a volunteer team of staff was recruited to be available for overtime call-outs. This team includes utility workers, custodial staff and trades who can shore up the municipal team when they’re stretched. This sure came in handy at the beginning of February when two major snowfalls hit the Vancouver campus. Building Operations was able to deploy a large workforce and address snow and ice of the primary walking routes on campus.