OH&S - Emergency Procedures

General fire safety and emergency procedures

It is in your own interest to make sure you are aware of all procedures that should be taken in the event of an emergency, such as fire, explosion or chemical hazard. You should also be familiar with the use and location of all safety equipment such as fire extinguishers.

Evacuation   
Upon hearing a continuous alarm (fire alarm bell) or a request to evacuate the building, all occupants of the building must leave in an orderly manner by the nearest exit as detailed in the section below.  In the case of an alarm, it should not be assumed that the alarm is being tested or has developed a fault.  The Fire Wardens will coordinate evacuation.  The Fire Wardens will ensure that all areas of the building have been evacuated and will inform Security about the evacuation. 

Specific evacuation instructions

Fire safety procedures

What should I do if I discover a fire?

In determining a course of action, there are three major considerations:

1. Raising the Alarm
2. Fighting the fire
3. Evacuating the building

The priority of these depends on the circumstances.  In all cases, personal safety is of paramount importance.

Raising the alarm

• Alert people nearby and enlist their aid.
• UNSW Security should be advised of the fire immediately on ext 56666 or ext 50747.
• If the alarm has not been triggered automatically or manually, it assists the Fire Brigade if the alarm is confirmed by telephone.
• Attempt to put out the fire only if you are familiar with the use of extinguishers and the fire is small.
• Determine the type of fire and use the appropriate fire extinguisher.
• If heat or smoke become threatening; leave the building closing all windows and doors if safe to do so.
• Never let a fire get between you and the exit.

Evacuate the Building

Unless you are engaged in fighting the fire, evacuate the building immediately.

What do I do upon hearing fire alarm?

The fire alarm may be sounded by a bell, hooter or siren, depending on the building. When you hear the alarm, evacuate the building calmly and promptly, as follows:

• Switch off any electrical equipment or fuel sources in your room if safe to do so.

• Close windows and doors if safe to do so.
• Leave the building by the shortest possible route.
• DO NOT USE LIFTS.
• Follow directions of SECO's, Wardens and  Security Officers.
• Obey instructions from Wardens, Security Officers and Emergency Service Personnel.
• Proceed to the Assembly Area designated for the building.
• Do NOT cluster around doorways.
• Do NOT hinder SECO's and Wardens, Security Officers and Fire Brigade Officers in carrying out their duties.
• Wait for further directions from the SECO, Security Officer or Fire Brigade.
• Do NOT re-enter the building until authorised to do so by the Fire Officer or delegate.
• NEVER enter a building when the alarm is sounding

Persons with disabilities

During emergencies, designated Floor Wardens will direct able-bodied persons to assist persons with disabilities to leave the building or area in question. It is not expected that people with mobility problems should evacuate a building by staircase during an evacuation drill.

However, you are expected to participate in the drill if possible, for example, by using ramps where available or moving to a fire isolated staircase and waiting there until the alarm has ceased.

For specific information on what should be done in an emergency refer to the UNSW Emergency Procedures Flipchart which is located in all areas on campus