For facilities managers, though, snow also brings a lot of practical necessities to make parking lots, roads, and walkways navigable and safe.

To address these important tasks, we’ve created an Essential Snow Removal Toolkit. It’s everything you need—and need to know—to keep the people traveling throughout your campus safe from snow and ice.

Essential Equipment

Snow Blowers and Throwers

Best for: Walkways, sidewalks, and narrow areas.
Features to consider: Adjustable chute direction, electric start, and compatibility with various surfaces.

Plows

Best for: Parking lots, roads, and large open areas.
Features to consider: Hydraulic controls, durable blades, and vehicle mounting compatibility.

Salt Spreaders

Best for: Evenly distributing deicing agents on large surfaces like parking lots and roadways.
Features to consider: Hopper size, spread pattern adjustability, and corrosion-resistant materials.

Shovels and Pushers

Best for: Steps, small entryways, and tight spaces.
Features to consider: Ergonomic handles and lightweight but durable construction.

Utility Vehicles

Best for: Versatile tasks, from plowing to hauling snow. Compact vehicles with attachments offer flexibility for mid-sized campuses.
Using Melting Agents Effectively

Melting agents are crucial for preventing ice accumulation and improving traction, but their application requires careful consideration to balance effectiveness and environmental impact.

Types of Melting Agents

Rock salt (sodium chloride): Affordable and effective for temperatures down to 15°F.
Calcium chloride: Works at lower temperatures (-20°F) but can be more expensive.
Magnesium chloride: Less harmful to vegetation and works in low temperatures.
Acetates (e.g., potassium acetate): Eco-friendly but often more costly.

Best Practices for Application

Pre-treat surfaces: Applying melting agents before snowfall can prevent ice from bonding to surfaces.
Apply sparingly: Overuse can damage concrete, harm plants, and contribute to runoff pollution.
Use alternative tools: Sand or gravel can provide traction without relying solely on chemicals.

Snow Removal Strategies by Area

Walkways and Sidewalks

Use snow blowers for efficiency and shovels for detail work near entrances.
Apply melting agents after clearing snow to minimize ice formation.

Steps and Entryways

Clear steps with handheld tools and apply deicers to prevent slips.
Consider rubber mats or temporary traction strips for additional safety.

Parking Lots and Roads

Deploy plows for heavy lifting, followed by salt spreaders to address residual ice.
Pay attention to drainage patterns to prevent refreezing in high-traffic zones.

Emergency Routes

Prioritize clearing fire lanes, loading docks, and access points for emergency vehicles.

Safety and Accessibility: Non-Negotiable Goals

Winter weather can exacerbate accessibility challenges, making it essential for grounds crews to maintain ADA-compliant paths and parking spaces. This includes:

Clearing ramps and handrails: Focus on high-use accessibility routes and ensure handrails remain ice-free.
Widening pathways: Clear walkways to a minimum width of 36 inches to accommodate wheelchairs and pedestrians.
Marking hazards: Use signage to alert pedestrians to slippery areas or ongoing snow removal efforts.

Environmental Considerations

While ensuring safety is paramount, it’s also important to minimize the environmental footprint of snow removal efforts.

Use eco-friendly products: Opt for melting agents that are less harmful to local ecosystems.
Manage runoff: Avoid applying chemicals near storm drains or sensitive plant beds.
Recycle snow: Pile snow in designated areas to allow for gradual melting without disrupting campus functions.

A Seasonal Action Plan

Before the snow falls:

Inspect and service all snow removal equipment.
Stockpile melting agents and review application techniques with staff.
Map out priority areas and create a detailed snow-removal schedule.

During snow events:

Monitor conditions in real-time and adjust strategies as needed.
Deploy teams strategically to high-traffic and high-risk zones.

After the storm:
Conduct a final inspection to address missed areas or hazards.
Evaluate the effectiveness of the response and identify areas for improvement.

Winter snow removal is one of the most critical tasks for college grounds crews. It directly impacts safety, accessibility, and the overall functionality of the campus. By leveraging the right tools, applying best practices for melting agents, and committing to a proactive strategy, grounds teams can keep the campus community safe and operational throughout the season.

Remember, every cleared path and salted step ensures that students, staff, and visitors can continue to experience the campus as a vibrant, welcoming space—even in the depths of winter.