Keep yourself and your workspace protected in cold weather

The time between the end of fall semester and the beginning of the spring term sees a campus population in flux. Some faculty and staff use vacation time; others are teaching remotely during winter session. It's important to protect buildings that may see little use as the weather turns colder.

Everyone doing their part before they depart their office for an extended time can make a big difference.

• Power down and unplug: Did you know that devices left plugged in still consume energy even when turned off? This often is referred to as "phantom load." Before leaving for winter break, please shut down and unplug all computers, printers, TVs, heaters, coffee pots, lamps, chargers and other devices. Leave your office computer on if needed for remote access or critical operations but turn off connected devices.
• Check faucets:  Make sure all faucets in restrooms and break rooms are turned off completely. Report any dripping faucets to the facilities planning and management (FP&M) service center, (515) 294-5100.
• Turn off lights: Switch off office lights and public lighting in hallways, restrooms and conference rooms.
• Secure windows: Double-check that all windows are tightly closed to prevent heat loss. In cold weather, leaving windows even slightly open can cause significant problems for a building's pipes and systems.
• Secure exterior doors: Double-check that all exterior doors close tightly behind you to prevent heat loss and freezing. If a door is not properly closing, contact the FPM service center, (515) 294-5100.
• Manage climate-controlled areas: Shut down unnecessary climate-controlled plant growth chambers, and ensure fume hood sashes are closed as much as possible.

Staffing during breaks

To support flexibility for employees during times of lower student activity on campus, units may reduce services and develop schedules that align with staffing guidance for university breaks. Winter break hours (7:30 a.m.-4 p.m.) can begin Monday, Dec. 22, and continue through Friday, Jan. 16. 

A priority during the four weeks is staffing levels that support a successful winter session for enrolled students. Most students are not in Ames but have online access to academic support and student services. Winter break also is an opportune time to reduce services and allow employees to use accrued vacation time. University leaders encourage employees to use this time to relax and recharge, whenever possible.