HEALTH & SAFETY POSTING:
Ice Resurfacer Operational Risks, Hazards, and Best Practices

July 22, 2026

As the industries' options for ice resurfacing equipment continue to expand, ORFA will continue to monitor advancements in technology, innovation and operational challenges. Generally, ice resurfacers are large, complicated vehicles that require advanced training on proper use and safe operations under the guidance of a competent instructor. A workplace specific training plan that highlights risks, hazards and safe operational practices to the specific make and model of an ice resurfacer will help ensure owners are meeting or exceeding health and safety responsibilities.

The following is a collection of known safety and operational matters associated with operating an ice resurfacer. The ORFA Resource Centre, Safe Ice Resurfacer Operator (SIRO) and Ice Maintenance and Equipment Operations (IMEO) courses offer more in-depth information on all identified items in this health and safety post.

ICE RESURFACER INDUSTRY BEST PRACTICES

1. Only trained, competent people should be permitted to take care and control of any ice resurfacer. ORFA SIRO and IMEO courses are considered minimum entry level training and industry best practice.
2. Operators must possess current WHMIS training.
3. Read all portions of the manufacturer’s owner’s manual and review all support media that speak to safe operations and maintenance of the ice resurfacer.
4. Circle checking an ice resurfacer by a competent operator continues to be the most proactive safety practice toward reducing equipment failure.
5. Ice resurfacers should only be operated on private property by trained operators – never on public roadways. Check with local authorities prior to driving an ice resurfacer off property.
6. No unauthorized person should be on the ice resurfacer or the ice sheet when the ice resurfacer or ice edger is in use.
7. Operators must comply with all manufacturers, applied safety stickers on the ice resurfacer.
8. Operators must wear all recommended Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Industry best practice is to have the ice resurfacer operator wear appropriate head protection and slip resistant footwear. Equipment that fails without warning on the ice will require the operator to exit the machine often onto a wet slippery surface.
9. Operators must use and never alter any safety device installed or recommended by the manufacturer. This includes a seat belt should the ice resurfacer arrive with one installed.
10. Operators using fossil fueled fired equipment indoors should be trained in the hazards of toxic indoor arena air.
11. Ice resurfacers are considered warm blooded and as such should never be parked/stored outside in extreme cold conditions.
12. Operators must review and follow all internal policies and procedures associated with the safe operation of the ice resurfacer, including any emergency procedures related to the equipment or facility.
13. Operators should be prepared to address any emergency involving an ice resurfacer. Knowing how the manual hydraulic system functions and how to isolate fuel sources is critical to reducing equipment failure.
14. To maximize equipment performance and life cycle expectancy, ensure that ice resurfacing equipment is only maintained by qualified technicians according to manufacturer’s specifications.
15. Operators must continually monitor industry Alerts or manufacturers' updates to remain current and up to date.

ICE RESURFACER COMMON RISKS & HAZARDS

1. ALWAYS circle check the ice resurfacer as recommended by the manufacturer – industry best practice is to conduct a detailed (10-minute) circle check at the start of each shift and a quick (1-minute) circle check before each flood. Record daily, weekly, monthly, or ongoing inspection logs.
2. ALWAYS close all dasherboard doors prior to taking an ice resurfacer onto the ice sheet.
3. ALWAYS confine hair and secure loose clothing or items such as a hoodie string to reduce entanglement hazards.
4. ALWAYS place the dump box safety devices in the locked position when the box is extended, and operator access is available.
5. ALWAYS blow the ice resurfacer horn when beginning to move the unit, crossing an open access threshold, while entering or exiting the surface and/or facility or if patrons are near the unit or entry/exit doors.
6. ALWAYS follow the manufacturers’ instructions for refueling or recharging the ice resurfacer.
7. ALWAYS follow the manufacturer’s instructions for floodwater temperatures. Signage and procedures should be developed for awareness of the risks of utilizing temperatures above 49°C (120°F).
8. ALWAYS turn on or ensure the function of the ice sheet exhaust fans and systems when operating any fossil fueled ice maintenance equipment or other vehicle within the ice sheet bowl area.
9. ALWAYS use the 3-point method when getting on or off, of an ice resurfacer.
10. ALWAYS use the ice resurfacer safety handles when getting on or off an ice resurfacer – do not use the steering wheel unless advised in the owner's manual to do so.
11. ALWAYS ensure access to the ice resurfacer storage area is secured.
12. ALWAYS report any unsafe issues with an ice resurfacer to a supervisor prior to operating.
13. NEVER place a hand near or in any of the auger systems unless the ice resurfacer has been rendered unable to start.
14. NEVER touch any part of the exhaust system unless the ice resurfacer is in a “cool” state.
15. NEVER touch any electrical wire or component of the ice resurfacer.
16. NEVER try and stop a hydraulic hose leak with a hand.
17. NEVER try and change an ice resurfacer blade unless properly trained.
18. NEVER allow any riders on the ice resurfacer. This includes pulling a person in any manner.