Building and Groundskeeping
The Facilities Management team at the University of Winnipeg plays a vital role in maintaining the campus's buildings and outdoor spaces throughout the year. Their work ensures a safe, clean, and welcoming environment for students, staff, faculty, and visitors.
Spring & Summer
During the warmer months, the Service Team focuses on beautification and upkeep of the campus grounds:
- Planting and Landscaping: Includes flowers, trees, and shrubs, led by a licensed arborist.
- Tree Health Programs: Monitoring and maintaining tree vitality.
- Lawn Care: Irrigation, seeding, mowing, and fertilization.
- Surface Repairs: Maintenance of sidewalks, curbs, and paved areas.
- Exterior Furniture Maintenance: Benches, bike racks, and signage upkeep.
- Graffiti Removal: Ensuring clean and welcoming public spaces.
- Waste and Recycling Management: Regular collection and sorting of outdoor waste.
Window Cleaning is typically addressed during this time.
Fall
As the season transitions, the team prepares the campus for colder weather:
- Leaf Removal and Composting: Managing organic waste sustainably.
- Seasonal Planting: Preparing beds for winter and planting hardy species.
- Inspection of Outdoor Infrastructure: Ensuring walkways, lighting, and signage are winter-ready.
- Preventative Maintenance: Checking irrigation systems and sealing surfaces.
Winter
Winter brings unique challenges that the Service Team addresses with safety and efficiency:
- Snow Clearing and Ice Melt Application: Prioritizing high-traffic areas and using environmentally preferred deicers.
- Sidewalk and Entryway Maintenance: Ensuring safe access to buildings.
- Emergency Access Routes: Keeping paths clear for emergency services.
- Winter Safety Precautions:
- Use of traction aids and signage for icy conditions.
- Coordination with the Safety Office for first aid and emergency response training.
- Monitoring weather conditions and adjusting maintenance schedules accordingly.
Safety Procedures and Policy Compliance
Outdoor maintenance tasks are governed by the University's Outdoor Maintenance Guidelines, which outline:
- Standard Operating Procedures: For snow removal, erosion control, and equipment use.
- Environmental Standards: Use of organic fertilizers and eco-friendly deicers.
- Roles and Responsibilities:
- Facilities Management oversees implementation and vendor compliance.
- Facilities tracks performance and reports to the Campus Sustainability Office.
- Review and Accountability: Guidelines are reviewed every three years to ensure continuous improvement.
If you would like to submit a report related to seasonal maintenance, please utilize the Service Portal.
Regarding closures and barricades, please stay up to date with our Building Updates. If you are experiencing issues with access due to closures or barricades, please contact us, Security, or Accessibility Services.
Have a special request or concern? Please submit through our service portal or contact us at facilities@uwinnipeg.ca / 204-258-3060 (ext. 3060).