As a sidewalk operator, it is important to ensure all assigned tasks have been fully completed before ending your shift. Review the following checklist before returning to the yard.

1. Zone Maps  (Paperwork Completion)

All paperwork must be thoroughly reviewed for accuracy and completeness before being returned to the City.

If a second shift is dispatched, all paperwork MUST be returned to the Shift Supervisor so it can be properly handed over to the next Sidewalk Operator.

All paperwork must clearly include:

• Start and stop times

• Service performed (salting, sanding, plowing, etc.)

• Fully printed name

• Initial(s)

Incomplete or inaccurate paperwork may result in delays or issues with reporting and must be corrected before submission.  If you teamed up with another Operator to help out in another zone, both Operators are required to review the paperwork to ensure it is accurately filled out before it is returned.

2. Trash  &  Garbage Removal

As an Operator, it is equally important to keep your tractor clean and tidy at all times. Before returning to the yard, remove all food waste, drink containers, and any other litter from the cab.

If you create a mess, you are responsible for cleaning it up. Maintaining a clean work environment is an expectation of the role and ensures the equipment remains in proper condition for the next operator.

3. Weigh in at the Scale House.  

All Operators are required to weigh in at the scales when returning to the yard.

Ensure you communicate with the scale attendant using your CB radio, clearly stating your unit number and that you are returning from your assigned zone.

Example:

“S8, salt in.” 

4. Remove ALL salt OR sand from your hopper

Salt left in the hopper will harden and become extremely difficult to remove. For this reason, all operators are required to fully empty their salt hoppers at the end of each shift.

This is everyone’s responsibility and helps prevent equipment damage and delays for the next operator.

5. Refuel your Tractor

Each operator is required to refuel their tractor at the end of each callout. One operator will be assigned as a refuelling assistant to help position the tractor near the pump, refuel the unit, and ensure the fuel cap is securely tightened.

While refuelling is taking place, take the time to gather all personal belongings, including gloves or mitts, hats, charging cables, smartphones, and any other personal items you brought into the unit.

6. Safely park your tractor and complete the power down procedure

If the callout is fully completed with a single shift, the tractor must be properly powered down once parked in the yard.

Ensure the following steps are completed:

• Fully lower the blade and angle it to the left

• Close all rear windows

• Power down the CB radio

• Turn off all accessory lighting and hazard lights

• Switch off the main lights at the stalk

• Set the kill switch to the ON position to maintain the battery

Completing these steps helps preserve equipment condition and ensures the unit is ready for the next deployment.

7. Return all tools and equipment

Before leaving the yard, ensure the clipboard, access card, pen, and highlighters are left in the tractor once it has been powered down.

If you used a hand-held CB radio, it must be returned to the Shift Supervisor before you leave the yard.

8. Yard and Work Area Safety

It is extremely important to vacate the working area safely, avoiding travel near any operating heavy equipment.

Additional safety precautions:

• Wear high-visibility clothing while moving from the work area to the parking lot.

• Travel in groups whenever possible.

• Avoid icy areas to reduce the risk of slips and falls.

Following these practices helps ensure your safety and the safety of others on site.