Winter in Vancouver can often mean periods of icy or snowy weather. While Building Operations works diligently to remove snow and ice from walkways and building entrances, you still may encounter slippery surfaces while walking around campus. Please report slippery conditions to the Trouble Calls Centre at 604-822-2173 or email tc.bldgops@ubc.ca.

Risk Management Services offers the following suggestions for your safety:

•  Select appropriate footwear. There is no single shoe sole material that is perfect under all conditions, however, footwear with rubber or neoprene composite soles provides better traction on ice and snow than leather or plastic.
• Think about the best route to your destination and plan on a little extra time to get there. Avoid rushing, taking shortcuts over snow piles or traversing areas where snow or ice removal is incomplete.
• If you have no choice but to walk on a slippery surface, bend slightly forward and shorten your stride or shuffle your feet for better stability.
• Beware of "black ice" and slippery conditions on surfaces that have been cleared.  Water vapor can freeze on cold surfaces and form an extra-thin, nearly invisible layer of ice that can look like a wet spot on the pavement. It often shows up early in the morning or in areas that are shaded from the sun.
• Use handrails while walking up and down stairs
• When exiting or entering a vehicle, hold on to the vehicle for support

When entering a building, be sure to:

•  Use floor mats to remove moisture from the soles of your shoes. This will help protect you, as well as others who follow, from having to walk on wet or slippery surfaces.
• Choose your path carefully to avoid wet or slippery floors