Emergency Information

Because of the wide variety of work that is carried out in the University and the complex layout of the various buildings, it is not possible to produce a set of valid and detailed emergency instructions to cover any situation which may arise.

For this reason emergency procedures appropriate to each area must be established and made known. An essential feature is rapid communication stating the location and nature of the emergency.

Many science and engineering business units will also have their own safety arrangements dealing with the more specialised aspects of their work. Please refer to your Health and Safety Coordinator. 

There are certain points that apply to all emergency situations.

Commit to memory the standard University Emergency Procedures. You will have no time to read them in an emergency.

1. Remember you are expected to act in the spirit of the instructions. There is no substitute for common sense.
2. The most important consideration at all times is human safety.
3. Remember: if you become a casualty someone must rescue you, possibly at personal risk to themselves. So avoid becoming a casualty.
4. Act quietly and methodically. Do not rush or attempt to pass others when leaving the scene of an accident.
5. The senior person present should assume control of the situation ensuring safe evacuation from the area of all persons present and be prepared to warn the Emergency Services of known special hazards.

Personal Safety - Dealing with Threatening Situations

These guidelines relate to a violent and/or threatening, or potentially violent and/or threatening, behaviour or situations on University property.

The situations to which these guidelines relate include verbal abuse, threats, and physical attacks.

With over 30,000 students and 5000 staff and numerous daily visitors to the University it is not always easy to either predict or guard against violent or threatening behaviour. It is incumbent on all staff and students to be vigilant and aware of their surroundings and the potential for any situation to become threatening or violent.

Incidents of work-related violence should be reported to the Health and Safety Team via the Incident Reporting system. Very serious incidents are monitored by the Health and Safety Team and reported to the University Health and Safety Committee.

Where the nature of the work activities or environment is such that there is a particular risk of encountering a threatening or violent situation then this should be included in the risk assessment for the activity or area. The Security Office should be consulted for advice on physical and procedural measures, including training, to minimise the risk. The Health and Safety Team can also offer advice. Please also reference the guidance on Lone Working.

Actions to be taken in the event of a threatening or violent situation:

1. If a situation is likely to become threatening or violent and if possible leave the area, having alerted other staff, students or visitors in the area.
2. Report any incidents as soon as possible to University Security using the emergency number 8888.
3. If a situation does become violent and/or threatening if possible do not get involved unless in self-defence or to save life.
4. Never try to protect property, life is more important.
5. If the situation warrants phone the Police before University Security.

If you have been affected by a threatening or violent situation you might find it helpful to contact the University Counselling service.