With an unexpected snowfall offering a sneak preview of winter weather, it’s time to get reacquainted with McMaster’s snow closure policy, officially known as the Storm Emergency Policy.

If no specific announcement has been made about McMaster being closed, then the university remains open.   

If necessary, the university will announce a closure when severe weather poses a danger to students, staff and faculty while on campus; or if the weather would prevent large numbers of them from coming to campus or returning safely to their homes.

Every effort will be made to confirm closing by 6 a.m.

If McMaster is open and weather conditions worsen during the day, the university will make an announcement as early as possible.

When a closing has been confirmed, it will be communicated via the McMaster News, on the McMaster safety app and on the university’s social media channels.

Faculty, staff and students are responsible for checking McMaster News and the university’s main social media channels on stormy days.

If a snow day is called:

• Classes and academic activities are cancelled, except for clinical placements in health professional programs, which will operate at the direction of the education program. Students are encouraged to communicate with their clinical supervisor.

• Labs, meetings and other scheduled events are cancelled — both in-person and virtual.

• Anything not defined as essential is closed, including activities scheduled to happen remotely.

• Exams scheduled for a snow day will be cancelled and rescheduled, except for those related to health professional programs, which will operate at the direction of the education program.

• Deadlines for assignments and other submissions will be postponed. Students should check Avenue to Learn for the new deadline.

The university’s policy applies to all campus locations within Hamilton and Burlington. Other sites will follow the direction of local affiliated universities.

Students attending a placement are asked to adhere to the guidance of their placement supervisor or employer.

Facility Services crews will be out clearing snow, bright and early throughout the winter, to keep campus pathways safe.

Faculty, staff and students can report icy pavement, unclear pathways or other winter hazards on campus here.