Facility managers across the U.S. face substantial challenges when winter weather arrives—especially if preventative steps weren’t taken early. Sudden temperature drops, snow, and ice can create costly risks for your building, disrupt operations, and impact the performance of critical systems.

The best preparation begins in the fall, but even if winter is already underway, it’s never too late to evaluate and act. Here are four essential steps to help ensure your facility services team is ready to keep your building safe, efficient, and resilient throughout the winter season.

Step 1: Conduct a Comprehensive Facility Audit—Inside and Out

A facility audit is the foundation of an effective winter-readiness plan. Your audit should include:

Interior Systems
· HVAC equipment (heating units, boilers, ventilation)
· Mechanical systems
· Backup generators and emergency electrical systems

Exterior Elements

  • Roof, windows, and doors
  • Building envelope integrity
  • Downspouts and drainage
  • Exterior lighting, sidewalks, and parking areas

A thorough audit helps identify potential vulnerabilities so your facility services team can prioritize repairs, upgrades, and preventative measures before conditions worsen.

Step 2: Build or Update Your Winter Emergency Response Plan:

Once you’ve completed your audit, use those insights to develop or refine your winter emergency response plan.

Your plan should include:

Clear Communication Structure

  • Internal chain of command for weather responses
  • Primary contacts for mechanical services, security, and janitorial services
  • External partner information (snow removal, plumbing, electrical, roofing, etc.)

Step-by-Step Response Protocols

Each team responsible for a core service line should document the actions they will take during severe weather—power outages, HVAC failures, burst pipes, or hazardous exterior conditions.

A well-developed response plan reduces downtime, supports continuity, and helps ensure a safe environment for employees, tenants, and visitors.

Step 3: Adjust Janitorial and Exterior Service Protocols for Winter

Winter conditions require a shift in daily facility services. To reduce risks and maintain a healthy environment, focus on:

Entryway & Interior Protocols

  • Increase frequency of monitoring and cleaning at all entrances
  • Use scraper mats outside and absorbent mats inside
  • Ensure matting allows 10–12 steps before reaching the main flooring
  • Increase attention to wet floors and salt residue

Exterior Monitoring

  • Keep sidewalks, walkways, and parking areas clear of ice and snow
  • Monitor known high-risk zones identified during your audit—downspouts, shaded areas, and heavily trafficked entry points

Proper winter janitorial and exterior services help reduce slip-and-fall incidents and minimize long-term damage to flooring and surfaces.

Step 4: Prioritize Indoor Air Quality During Winter Months

Indoor air quality (IAQ) becomes especially important during the winter, when buildings are sealed and the cold and flu season peaks.

Key steps include:

HVAC Preventative Maintenance

  • Inspect and maintain furnaces, boilers, and ventilation components
  • Replace filters regularly
  • Ensure proper airflow and circulation

Consider Advanced Air & Surface Purification

Marsden’s CleanAir System uses responsive sensors and ionization technology integrated into your existing HVAC system. Independent lab testing shows it can deactivate 99.994% of tested allergens, bacteria, and viruses. This added layer of protection supports healthier indoor environments during the months when people spend the most time inside.

Take Action Now to Protect Your Facility This Winter

By following these four steps—conducting a facility audit, developing a winter emergency plan, adjusting janitorial and exterior protocols, and prioritizing indoor air quality—you can better safeguard your building and maintain a safe, productive environment.

With more than 70 years of experience, Marsden Services helps clients prepare for winter weather with comprehensive facility services, expert teams, and integrated solutions. If you need support preparing your facility for the season, we’re here to help.