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Emergency Management
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Plans and Procedures Hazardous Substance

Procedures to be followed:

  • If a hazardous substance is discovered on the campus, the individual shall immediately contact the UPD (911) and provide as much information as possible. At a minimum, the individual should provide a description of the substance (color and texture) and any specific characteristics (odor, smoke, etc.). Exposed individuals should quarantine themselves at a safe location.
  • If a telephone call or information is received stating Hazardous Material (HAZMAT) is somewhere on the campus:
  • When necessary and as directed, faculty and staff will inform students and others of the situation and ask them to leave all personal belongings in the isolated area and evacuate the room or area that is potentially affected.
  • Faculty and staff should be the last to leave the classroom/area and should conduct a quick review to assure the isolated area is evacuated.
  • The UPD will be posted to ensure no one enters the isolated area until emergency personnel arrive and the area is determined to be safe.
  • All students, faculty, and staff will vacate all affected areas and move into a safe location as designated by officials on site.
  • The fire/HAZMAT authorities will notify the UPD when reentry to the isolated area can be made. There is no specified time limit for when students and faculty will be permitted back into the isolated area. This will depend solely upon the information received and the results of the findings of the fire/HAZMAT authorities.

If a hazardous release occurs outdoors on the campus grounds or at a nearby location that may affect the campus, the following procedures will be taken:

  • A shelter-in-place order may be issued
  • When necessary, Physical Facilities will isolate the appropriate utilities (ventilation, air conditioning, natural gas, electricity, etc.) within the building to prevent the spread of contamination, fire, or explosion.