4 minute read
Column: Synthetic Turf
Navigating the Complexity
of Running Track Care
By Arthur Eddy, ASLA, LEED AP
Maintaining a running track is a multifaceted responsibility that demands collaboration between facility directors and professional maintenance teams. Among the various aspects that demand attention: the maintenance of trench drains; the mitigation of slipping hazards caused by soil, debris, and mold/algae build-up that frees draining surfaces to eliminate long-term damage; and identifying and expediting repairs are critical components in ensuring the longevity and safety of running tracks. Both facility directors and professional maintenance teams play distinct yet complementary roles in addressing these issues.
Facility directors, as overseers of athletic facilities, are tasked with the strategic planning and coordination of track maintenance efforts. Their role encompasses setting budgets, scheduling maintenance activities and ensuring that the overall maintenance strategy aligns with the facility’s goals. Due to the constant impact of athletes’ footsteps, exposure to varying weather conditions, and general usage, wear and tear on a running track is inevitable. Recognizing the significance of regular inspections and maintenance strategies is essential for maintaining the track’s integrity and preventing minor issues from escalating into major problems.
Trench drains, strategically positioned at the edges of running tracks, play a crucial role in managing water drainage. Over time, these drains can become clogged with debris, hindering their effectiveness and potentially causing water stagnation. This compromises the track’s structural integrity and creates a slipping hazard for athletes. Recognizing the importance of regular cleaning and maintenance of trench drains is paramount for both facility directors and professional maintenance teams. Professional maintenance teams, armed with specialized tools and expertise, play a central role in the physical clearing of trench drains. Utilizing high-pressure washers these teams ensure that debris is efficiently removed, allowing for unobstructed water drainage.
Addressing slipping hazards goes beyond just cleaning trench drains. Both facility directors and professional maintenance teams must be vigilant in identifying and rectifying factors contributing to slippery surfaces. This includes the appropriate elimination of mold or algae growth on the track surface. Regular inspections by both parties are crucial for spotting early signs of wear or damage that could compromise the track’s integrity and increase the risk of slips.
Professional maintenance teams bring a wealth of expertise and hands-on experience to the table. They specialize in the detailed tasks required for effective track maintenance, such as dirt and debris removal, cleaning trench drains, and identifying potential issues with the track surface. These teams often utilize specialized equipment, including high-powered sweepers and vacuums to perform thorough and efficient maintenance.
Additionally, neglecting necessary repairs can lead to more extensive and costly damage over time. What might start as a small crack or a minor issue can progress into a significant structural problem. Timely interventions not only save costs in the long run but also contribute to the sustainability of the facility, reducing the need for major renovations or replacements.
Facility directors should emphasize the importance of a proactive approach to repairs within the overall maintenance strategy. This involves establishing a systematic schedule for inspections, outlining clear protocols for reporting and addressing issues, and collaborating closely with professional maintenance teams to ensure that repairs are conducted with precision and efficiency.
In the collaborative effort between facility directors and professional maintenance teams, communication is key. Facility directors may leverage their oversight role to advocate for ongoing education and training for maintenance teams. Staying abreast of the latest advancements in track maintenance practices ensures that professional teams are well-equipped to handle evolving challenges, contributing to the sustained excellence of running tracks under their care.
In conclusion, trench drain maintenance, slipping hazard mitigation and repairs are integral aspects of running track maintenance, demanding collaboration between facility directors and professional maintenance teams. By recognizing the unique roles each party plays and fostering open communication, a comprehensive and effective maintenance strategy can be implemented. This ensures that running tracks not only meet the highest standards of safety, but eliminate small problems from turning into larger ones while providing athletes with a reliable and secure surface for training and competition. •
Arthur Eddy is CEO of
RePlay Maintenance in Rumford, Rhode Island.
Connect with Art at Aeddy@replaymaintenance.com or (877) 641-1819. Photos courtesy of the author.
