University of Alberta

Christmas Closure Security Recommendations

Securing Your Workspace for the 2011 Christmas Closure

A message from Risk Management Services, Facilities and Operations, and Museums and Collections Services

To ensure that the University is secure and free from preventable problems during the winter closure, we ask that your department designate at least one person to ensure the following:

  1. All equipment, such as computers and photocopiers, is turned off and secured where possible. 
  2. All water is turned off or completely shut down (such as distilled water systems that are not required to run continuously).
  3. Gas valves in labs are in the “Off” position. 
  4. Low temperature research freezers are in working order.
  5. Doors are closed and locked.
  6. Windows are closed and locked where appropriate.
  7. Lights are turned off.
  8. All hazardous products are properly stored in a secure location. (Consult your department WHIMIS designate for further information.)
  9. Food items are removed from refrigerators.
  10. Departments with access control systems have correctly set their door lock/unlock schedules for the holiday period. Computers controlling these systems must be left ON to enable the Control Centre to perform remote operations such as unlocking/relocking doors if the need arises.
  11. If you have server rooms or other critical areas that are not monitored by the Control Centre you may wish to check on them during the break to monitor temperature conditions etc.
  12. Museum and research collections should be checked periodically during the winter closure for water damage, etc. Refer here for further information.
  13. All laboratory experiments are shut down (except where it is essential they continue) and hazardous material is stored in accordance with WHIMIS regulations. (Where laboratory experiments must continue over the break, please adhere to these recommendations whenever possible.)
  14. And finally, please remember that your personal items are not the responsibility of the University. We recommend you secure them adequately, or take them home with you where appropriate.

PLEASE COMPLETE A FINAL WALK THROUGH OF YOUR AREA PRIOR TO DEPARTING. 

The University will be closed from Monday, December 26, 2011 through to Monday, January 2, 2012.

We wish you, your families and friends a safe and wonderful holiday season!

Janine Andrews, Museums & Collections Services              

Bill Mowbray, Protective Services

Bob Picken, Insurance & Risk Assessment                                     

Hugh Warren, Operations and Maintenance