Rink

42 R INK MAGAZ INE may/June 2008 The document should list the necessary tools and equipment needed. Once the document is finalized, it will be necessary to conduct training and perform practice runs with staff members from each department. Dry runs of the quick change should be performed until everyone is comfortable with the procedure. Oftentimes a quick change during a game will involve using Plexiglass instead of the tempered sheets. This saves time by eliminating the need to bring a forklift onto the ice to handle the weight of the tempered glass. Plexiglass should only be used to finish the game or period. Once time permits, the tempered sheet should replace the Plexiglass. For arenas that don't have NHL games or big crowds, it is still important to have a plan of action for glass break during any type of ice activity. Some venues may handle the entire quick change with the operations team. Depending on the time of day, that might only be a couple of people from the ice crew. While the Pepsi Center utilizes employees from the ice crew, conversion, housekeeping and front of house, a smaller arena may combine those four areas of responsibility into whoever is available at the time. This may include the IR operators, snack bar or custodial employees. There might even be a time when a coach on the ice assists with clean up. Regardless, it is important to develop a written policy covering all of the possible scenarios that might arise during a glass break. ★ GLASS-SWAPPING TIPS • Be organized. • Create a "Glass Map" of your rinks (post in IR room). • Inventory your glass needs (1-2 pieces for odd sizes, 3-4 pieces for common sizes). • Label each piece of spare glass with the width and height. • Build a glass storage unit to hold spare glass. • Have Plexiglass for quick changes (use glass inventory for sizes and quantity). • Store glass in a manner that doesn't require moving pieces to get to the desired size. • Dedicate space close to the ice resurfacer gates for glass break materials. Tools needed for quick changes • Squeegees (Ice Crew) • Shovels (Ice Crew) • Ice Resurfacer (Ice Crew) • Trash Can / Tilt Truck (Ice Crew) • Paint Brush / Screwdriver (Conversion) • Measuring Tape (Conversion) • Ladder x2 (Conversion) • Suction Cups x4 (Conversion) • Spare Glass / Plexi (Conversion) • Glass Cart (Conversion) • Glass Cleaner (Conversion) • Brooms / Dust Pans (Housekeeping) Protective equipment • Eye Protection • Steel-Toe Work Boots • Ice Creepers • Gloves • Arm Guards STAR PHOTO Organizing glass will help in making efficient change-outs.

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