Employees should remain vigilant for building damage, campus hazards

As weather-related cleanup efforts continue at Purdue's West Lafayette campus, University officials would like to remind employees to remain vigilant for building damage and other hazardous situations.

Employees should be on the lookout for signs of active water leaks when they return to their campus offices, says Carol Shelby, senior director of environmental health and public safety. Signs include:

* Pooled water near windows or outlets.
* Soaked drywall near baseboards, windows, ceilings or similar areas.

Active water leaks should be reported to the Purdue University Police Department's dispatch center at 49-48221. Dispatchers will share the reported information with the appropriate areas.

Additionally, everyone should also be mindful of the possibility of falling snow and ice from rooftops as the weather begins to warm, Shelby says.

Buildings and Grounds personnel will be placing caution tape and barriers around outdoor areas known to be dangerous, Shelby says. However, employees who notice potentially dangerous areas without tape and barriers should report them to the Work Request Center at 49-49999.  

"During our post-storm recovery, we need everyone's eyes and ears to help us identify and protect the campus from potential safety hazards," Shelby says.

"At the same time, we appreciate the assistance we've received so far from everyone on campus, particularly emergency responders and members of Physical Facilities."

Everyone at Purdue is encouraged to dress warmly with appropriate footwear and exercise caution when walking to and from building locations.

University officials continue to monitor area road conditions -- and encourage employees to do the same -- to be aware of any local travel restrictions that might remain in place. Those planning to travel on area roads should monitor their county travel status by going online to www.in.gov/dhs/traveladvisory.