Emergency Procedures
Flooding and Water Damage
Power Outage
Tornado
Medical Emergencies
Explosions
Fire
Evacuation Procedures
Chemical Spills
Suspicious Mail
Bomb Threats and Suspicious Objects
Explosive Device Record Data
Crime Prevention
Tips For Travelers
Tips For Travelers II
Workplace Violence
9-1-1

Wooster Campus
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
and Safety Information


Environmental Health & Safety
www.oardc.ohio-state.edu/ehs

(330) 263-3914

University Police
www.oardc.ohio-state.edu/police

(330) 287-0111 Station
(330) 264-0575 Dispatch

MORE IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS

Switchboards
OARDC - 0 or (330) 263-3700
ATI - 0 or (330) 264-3911

 
 
Maintenance
OARDC- (330) 263-3915
   After Hours-(330) 263-3921
ATI- (330) 287-1271
           or
ATI- (330) 287-1362
Serious water damage can occur from a number of sources: broken pipes, clogged drains, damaged skylights or windows, or construction errors.
IF A WATER LEAK OCCURS:

1. Remain calm.

2. Notify Maintenance or if after hours call (330) 362-3921 immediately. Report the exact location and severity of the leak.

3. Beware of possible electrocution hazard. If an electrical source is present, use caution and evacuate the area. Never attempt to unplug or remove an electrical appliance or wire from a flooded area.

4. If you know the source of the water and are confident of your ability to stop it (e.g., unclog the drain, turn off the water, etc), do so.

5. Be prepared to assist as directed in protecting objects that are in jeopardy. Take only essential steps to avoid or reduce immediate water damage, such as covering objects with plastic sheeting or moving small or light objects out of danger.

IF A POWER OUTAGE OCCURS IN YOUR OFFICE OR BUILDING:

1. Remain Calm.

2. Provide assistance to others in your immediate area who may be unfamiliar with the space.

3. If you are in an unlighted area, proceed cautiously to an area that has emergency lights.

4. If you are in an elevator, stay calm. Use the emergency button or telephone to alert the Maintenance or if after hours call (330) 263-3921.

5. If instructed to evacuate, proceed cautiously to the nearest clear exit.

6. Planning for such situations includes having a flashlight available.

7. Call Maintenance or if after hours call (330) 263-3921.

8. Initiate power outage protocols for critical operations such as fume hoods.

A tornado warning is the sounding of the emergency sirens for three minutes followed by seven minutes of silence. A warning indicates a tornado has been sighted by ground observers or has appeared on radar within Wayne County.
IF A TORNADO WARNING HAS BEEN ISSUED FOR YOUR AREA:

1. Stay inside and be alert to falling objects.

2. Stay away from windows, mirrors, glass, and unsecured objects such as filing cabinets or bookcases.

3. Proceed to a below-ground-level or central hallway of the building if possible.

4. Do not use elevators.

5. If requested, assist persons with disabilities to the safest area on the same floor.

6. Remain in the safe area until at least 10 minutes has elapsed without the sounding of sirens or the "all clear" has been given.

7. Planning includes identifying the appropriate place in your building to seek shelter should a tornado occur.

8. Listen to weather radio.

9. If caught away from buildings in vehicles or on a piece of equipment, do not try to out run a tornado. Lie flat in a ditch or depression, or get into a large culvert if available.

IF SOMEONE BECOMES ILL OR IS INJURED AND REQUIRES IMMEDIATE ASSISTANCE:

1. Call 9-1-1 to contact Emergencies services.

2. 911 operator will provide or arrange required services.

3. Unless trained, do not attempt to render any first aid before trained assistance arrives.

4. Do not attempt to move a person who has fallen and appears to be in pain.

5. Limit your communication with ill or injured person to quiet reassurances.

6. After the person's immediate needs have been taken care of, remain to assist the investigating officer with pertinent information about the incident.

7. If the victim is an OSU employee, an OSU Wooster Campus accident report will need to be filled out and processed.

8. Planning for such emergencies includes being trained in emergency first aid procedures, CPR and AED.

Chemicals, leaking gas, faulty boilers, or falling aircraft could all be the cause of life-endangering explosions.
1. If you see, hear, or witness an explosion call 911. Remain calm.

2. Be prepared for possible further explosions.

3. Stay away from windows, mirrors, overhead fixtures, filing cabinets, bookcases, and electrical equipment.

4. Be guided by Police or Fire Department personnel. If evacuation is ordered, proceed to one of the designated exits.

5. Do not move seriously injured persons unless they are in obvious immediate danger (of fire, building collapse, etc.).

6. Open doors carefully. Watch for falling objects.

7. Do not use elevators.

8. If requested, accompany and assist persons with disabilities who appear to need direction or assistance.

9. Do not use matches or lighters.

10. Avoid using telephones

11. Do not spread rumors.

HOW TO REPORT A FIRE

1. If a burning odor or smoke is detected, call 911. Report the location of the fire and, if known, what is burning. If fire is present, sound the building alarm by pulling an alarm station. Call the switchboard from a safe location and provide information. Note: pulling the fire alarm may not automatically notify the fire department.

2. If the fire is small and you have received training, attempt to put out fire with a fire extinguisher or other available means. Do not jeopardize your personal safety.

3. Never allow the fire to come between you and an exit.

4. Evacuate all persons from the danger area. Close doors behind you to confine the fire.

RESPONSE TO AUDIBLE FIRE ALARMS

1. If the audible horn alarm sounds for more than 30 seconds or sounds for a second time, evacuate the building.

2. Do not use the elevators.

3. If requested, accompany and assist persons with disabilities who appear to need direction or assistance.

4. Leave all parcels and personal property inside.

5. Once out of the building, move to your building's designated assembly area or as instructed by Police or Fire Department Officials.

6. Return to the building only when instructed to do so by Police or Fire officials.

IN ADVANCE, EACH STAFF MEMBER SHOULD:

1. Understand the evacuation plan.

2. Recognize the sound of the evacuation alarm in your building.

3. Know at least two ways out of the building from your regular workspace.

WHEN YOU HEAR THE EVACUATION ALARM OR ARE VERBALLY TOLD TO BEGIN EVACUATING THE BUILDING:


1. Remain calm.

2. Leave quickly.

3. Try to make sure that all members of your department hear the alarm and evacuate the area.

4. As you exit, quickly check nearby restrooms, copier rooms, and storage rooms for occupants who may not have heard the evacuation signal.

5. If requested, accompany and assist persons with disabilities who appear to need direction or assistance.

6. Take with you essential personal items ONLY. Do not attempt to take large or heavy objects.

7. Shut all doors behind you as you go. Closed doors can slow the spread of fire, smoke, and water.

8. Proceed as quickly as possible but in an orderly manner. Do not push or shove. Hold handrails when you are walking on stairs.

9. Once out of the building, move to your building's designated assembly area or as instructed by Police or Fire Department Officials.

IF A CHEMICAL SPILL OCCURS:

1. Remain Calm.

2. If toxic chemicals come in contact with your skin, immediately flush the affected area with clear water.

3. Call 9-1-1 IMMEDIATELY.

4. If there is possible danger evacuate your area.

5. After the emergency, all chemical spills and fires, no matter how small, should be reported to Environmental Health and Safety at (330) 263-3638.

IF A CHEMICAL FIRE OCCURS:


1. Remain calm.

2. Call 911. Report the exact location of the fire and, if known, what is burning. Sound the building alarm by pulling an alarm station. Call switchboard from a safe location and provide information.

3. If the fire is small and you have received training, attempt to put it out with a fire extinguisher or other available means. Do not jeopardize your personal safety.

4. Never allow the fire to come between you and an exit.

5. Evacuate your area if you are unable to put out the fire. Close doors and windows behind you to confine the fire. Proceed to an exit.

6. Do not break windows. Oxygen feeds a fire.

7. Do not attempt to save possessions at the risk of personal injury.

8. Do not return to the emergency area until instructed to do so by Police or Fire Department officials.

9. After the emergency, all chemical spills and fires, no matter how small, should be reported to Environmental Health and Safety at (330) 263-3638.

10. Planning includes training in proper use of fire extinguishers and knowing their location.

POSSIBLE INDICATORS OF A THREAT:
No return address.
Restrictive markings.
Oily stains, discolored, or crystallization on wrapper.
Excessive tape.
Possibly mailed from foreign countries.
Misspellings.
Addressed to title only. Incorrect title.
Badly typed or written.
Uneven or lopsided. Rigid or bulky.
Strange Odor.

 

IF YOU RECEIVE A SUSPICIOUS LETTER OR PACKAGE:

1.Handle with care. Don't shake or bump.
2.
Isolate it immediately.
3.
Don't open, smell, touch, or taste.
4.
Treat it as suspect. Call law enforcement authorities.

IF PACKAGE IS OPEN AND/OR A THREAT IS IDENTIFIED:


For a bomb:
1.
Evacuate immediately.
2.
Call police, postal inspectors, and local fire/HAZMAT unit.
For radiological:
1.Limit exposure. Don't Handle.
2.
Evacuate area.
3.
Shield yourself from object
4.Call police, postal inspectors, and local fire/HAZMAT unit.
For Biological or Chemical:
1.Isolate. Don't Handle.
2.
Evacuate immediate area.
3.
Wash your hands with soap and warm water.
4.
Call police, postal inspectors, and local fire/HAZMAT unit.

It is possible, although highly unlikely, that a staff member may someday receive a threatening telephone call, letter, or a suspicious parcel or discover a suspicious object somewhere on the premises.
IF YOU RECEIVE A TELEPHONE THREAT:

1. Remain calm.

2. Listen carefully. Be polite and show interest. Try to keep the caller talking so that you can gather more information.

3. Use the Explosive Device Data Record information on back of this page to question the caller in a polite and noninterrogative manner. Use any means, even humor, to prolong the conversation. This will provide a better chance to identify the voice and hopefully obtain additional information about a device, the validity of the threat, or the identity of the caller.

4. Upon completion of the call, immediately notify University Police (330)287-0111 and complete the Explosive Device Data Record as soon as possible while the incident is fresh in your memory.

5. If a threat has been received by another individual and he/she is relaying this information to you, use the Explosive Device Data Record to get as much information from them as possible.

A suspicous item is defined as anything which is out of place and cannot be accounted for or any item suspected of being an explosive device.

IF YOU RECEIVE A WRITTEN THREAT OR A SUSPICIOUS PARCEL, OR IF YOU FIND A SUSPICIOUS OBJECT ANYWHERE ON THE PREMISES:


1. Keep anyone from handling it or going near it.

2. Do not use portable radio equipment within 100 feet of the suspicious item.

3. Notify 911 IMMEDIATELY.

4. Promptly write down everything you can remember about receiving the letter or parcel or finding the object. The information will be needed by police.

5. Remain calm. Do not discuss the threat with other staff members.

6. Be guided by police instructions.

7. Planning includes being familiar with the appearance of suspicious packages.

Explosive Device Record Data
(make copies for convenient future use)

Explosive Device Record Data
(print this page for convenient future use)
QUESTIONS TO ASK:

1. When is explosive device set to explode?
2. Where is it right now?
3. What does it look like?
4. What kind of explosive device is it?
5. What will cause it to explode?
6. Did you place the explosive device?
7. Why?
8. What is your address?
9. What is your name?

EXACT WORDING OF THE THREAT:


_______________________

_______________________

_______________________

_______________________

_______________________

Sex of Caller:____Race:_____

Age:______Length of call:______

Number at which call is received:
_______________________
 Time:______Date:________

CALLER'S VOICE:
___ Calm
___ Angry
___ Excited
___ Slow
___ Rapid
___ Soft
___ Loud
___ Laughter
___ Crying
___ Normal
___ Distinct
___ Slurred
___ Nasal
___ Stutter
___ Lisp
___ Raspy
___ Deep
___ Ragged
___ Clearing throat
___ Deep breathing
___ Cracking voice
___ Disguised
___ Accent
___ Familiar

 

If voice is familiar, who did it sound like? _______________

BACKGROUND SOUNDS:


___ Street noises
___ House noises
___ PA system
___ Music
___ Office machinery
___ Factory machinery
___ Animal noises
___ Voices
___ Static
___ Clear
___ Phone booth
Other _______

THREAT LANGUAGE:


___ Well spoken
___ (educated)
___ Foul
___ Irrational
___ Incoherent
___ Taped
___ Message read by
___ threat maker
REMARKS:________________________

________________________________

IMMEDIATELY CALL THE OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY POLICE DEPARTMENT AT (330) 287-0111
Give responding officers this completed sheet.
Date:______________________

Phone #:___________________

Name:________________________

Position:______________________

Here are a few suggestions for what you might do to prevent a crime in your area.
IN YOUR OFFICE:

1. Lock your door, even if you are just going down the hall. It takes a thief 10 seconds or less to enter an open room and steal your property.

2. Do not leave messages on your door indicating that you are away and when you will be back.

3. If someone asks to use your phone for an emergency call, offer to telephone for them instead of allowing them access.

4. Do not put your address on your key ring.

5. Do not leave keys in hiding places.

6. Call University Police at (330) 287-0111 to report suspicious persons or activity.

WHEN WALKING:


1. Avoid walking alone at night unless absolutely necessary.

2. Walk purposefully, know where you are going, project a no-nonsense image.

PROTECTING YOUR AUTO OR BICYCLE:

1. Always lock your car.

2. Lock bikes to immovable objects or bike racks with hardened-alloy locks and chains or U-shaped locks.

3. Do not leave tempting valuables or property visible inside the car. Lock these items in the trunk.

PROTECTING YOURSELF WHEN DRIVING:


1. Look into your car before getting in. Lock doors and roll up windows once inside for protection.

2. Do not stop to help occupants of stopped or disabled vehicles. Continue driving to the nearest phone and call assistance for them.

3. Raise the hood, then lock yourself into your car if it breaks down. If someone stops and offers you help, remain in your car and ask them to phone for help. Do not worry about seeming rude.

Call University Police at (330) 287-0111 for detailed crime prevention information and visit our web site www.oardc.ohio-state.edu/police/ to review detailed safety data.
When traveling domestically or internationally there are some simple precautions you can take to help keep you safe.
BEFORE YOU GO
  • Ensure that your passport, if needed, is good for at least three or four months.
  • Make a copy of your credit card and traveler check numbers and the telephone numbers needed to report a theft. Keep the copy in a location separate from the documents.
  • If possible, carry any required prescriptions in the original containers.
  • Check with your medical insurance carrier about coverage away from your home and work. Know coverage protection for out-of-country travel.

BEFORE YOU TAKE OFF


  • Make copies of your passport photo page; put a copy in your carry-on and leave a copy at home.
  • Make sure your luggage is tagged inside and out, but don't use your position or affiliation.
  • Dress casually when traveling to avoid attention; avoid showy jewelry.
  • Be alert at security checkpoints. Don't place belongings on conveyor until you can keep an eye on items being screened.

AT YOUR HOTEL


  • In a hotel, try to secure a room between floors two and seven. Some fire departments may not have the capability to rescue above the seventh floor.
  • Always check for the nearest fire stairwell, hoses, and emergency telephone when checking into a hotel.
  • Avoid hanging the "Please Clean Room" tag on your door. It is an obvious signal that you are not in.
  • Do not leave sensitive information or documents in your hotel room. Hand carry and personally protect your documents, as well as laptop computers and other valuables.
  • Stay with your luggage until it is brought into the lobby or placed in your taxi.
AT YOUR HOTEL: IN CASE OF FIRE
  • Locate the nearest stairwell to your room.
  • Check your door by placing the palm of your hand on the door or the knob. If either feels hot, do not open the door.
  • If you cannot leave your room or the stairwells are unsafe, notify the front desk that you are in your room.
  • Stay low but alert to any sings of rescue from the street or the halls. Let firefighters know where you are by waving a towel or sheet out of the window.

ON THE STREET


  • Be aware of your surroundings. Look up and down the street before exiting a building.
  • Ask the bellman, concierge, and front desk personnel regarding safe-- and not-so-safe --areas around the city to jog, dine, or sightsee. Be aware of local traffic regulations and driving habits. Joggers have been seriously injured by failing to understand traffic conditions.
  • Keep in mind that purse snatchers and briefcase thieves often work hotel bars and restaurants. Keep your purse or briefcase in view or in hand.
  • Be alert to scams involving an unknown person spilling a drink or food on your clothing; an accomplice may be preparing to steal your wallet, purse, or briefcase.

WHEREVER YOU ARE


  • Always be alert for distractions that may be staged by pickpocketers, luggage thieves, or purse snatchers.
  • Consider wearing a money belt or other secure storage device; waist pouches are not advised because potential thieves will know the location of your valuables.
  • Keep briefcases and purses in view or in hand when using telephones. If you're using a credit card, block the view of the key pad when entering the number.
  • Be cautious when entering public restrooms.
Workplace violence often begins with inappropriate behavior or signs that, when detected and reported, may help prevent its occurrence. The following information is a starting place for workplace violence education and a safer, healthier workplace for everyone.
EXAMPLES OF WORKPLACE VIOLENCE
  • Threats, direct or implied
  • Physical conduct that results in harm to people or property
  • Conduct which harasses, disrupts, or interferes with another individual's performance
  • Conduct that creates an intimidating, offensive, or hostile environment

POTENTIAL WARNING SIGNS


  • Verbal, nonverbal, or written threats
  • Fascination with weapons or violence
  • New or increased stress at home or work
  • Expressions of hopelessness or anxiety
  • Insubordinate behavior
  • Dramatic change in work performance
  • Destruction of property
  • Drug or alcohol abuse
  • Externalization of blame
RISK FACTORS THAT CONTRIBUTE TO WORKPLACE VIOLENCE
  • Termination of employment
  • Disciplinary actions
  • Ongoing conflicts between employees
  • Domestic or family violence
  • Financial problems

WORKPLACE VIOLENCE PREVENTION


  • Be aware of what is going on around you at all times. Awareness is a proven method for increased personal safety.
  • Tell your supervisor when you notice unusual or suspicious behavior.
  • Attend a violence prevention seminar that includes training in conflict resolution and positive ways of dealing with hostile individuals.
  • Get acquainted with security and The Ohio State University police officers. Do not hesitate to call for help.
  • Finally, remember: a safe workplace is everyone's responsibility.