PRIORITY: Snow Loads on School Roofs

INFORMATIONAL LETTER: 89
POLICY CODE: EBA

TO: Superintendents of Schools

FROM: Susan A. Gendron, Commissioner of Education

DATE: March 4, 2008

RE: PRIORITY: Snow Loads on School Roofs

Although we are approaching the first day of spring, there is a great deal of concern with buildings across the State and their ability to sustain the heavy snow loads that this year’s multiple storms have created. A recently abandoned school collapsed as a result of snow and a number of schools are showing deflections in their structural elements due to stress from snow loads.

I am asking that all school superintendents be aware of this year’s unique hazard created by the heavy snow loads and take appropriate action where necessary to protect the integrity of their buildings and thus the safety of students and staff. In many cases, this means removing snow from school roofs. In all cases, staff and administrators should be especially aware of the situation and should report any abnormalities in a building’s appearance immediately to the superintendent of schools. Even recently constructed schools may be susceptible to extreme snow loads.

Many of our schools have added insulation in order to conserve energy. As a result, more snow is able to accumulate on roofs; in the past, the snow was melted by the escaping heat.

We all want to get through these last few weeks without an incident leading to human injury in our schools. Your close attention to this situation should be the highest of priorities. If you have any questions about roof loads, we suggest that you contact a registered engineer. If you have questions regarding this letter, please contact Scott Brown, Director of School Facilities here at the Department of Education at (207) 624-6848 or at Scott.Brown@Maine.Gov