University of Redlands
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Utility Failure

In the event of a major failure occurring between 7:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, immediately notify Facilities Management (909-748-8020).

If there is potential danger to the building occupants, or if the utility failure occurs after 5:00 p.m. or before 7:30 a.m. on weekdays, weekends, or holidays, notify Public Safety (909-748-8888).

Electrical/Light Failure
 If an electrical short in equipment occurs, immediately shut off electricity. Pull electrical plug or shut off electrical breaker switch. Call Facilities Management (909-748-8020) if assistance is needed. If there is a power outage, most campus buildings are equipped with an emergency light system that provides enough illumination in corridors and stairs for safe exiting for a short period of time. It is, however, advisable for your department to have flashlights available. During a power outage:

  • Remain calm.

  • Call Facilities Management (909-748-8020) or Public Safety (909-748-8888).

  • Provide assistance to students, visitors, and staff in your immediate area.

  • Turn off computers and unplug electronic equipment to prevent a power surge from damaging equipment when the power comes back on.

  • Evacuate the building if the fire alarm sounds or upon notification by Public Safety, Facilities Management, or other emergency personnel.

  • Before leaving, secure your files, lock windows and doors, turn off lights, and take your personal belongings.

  • In laboratory buildings, fume hoods may not be operable. Most labs should not be used until ventilation is properly restored.

Elevator Failure

If you are trapped in an elevator, use the emergency phone in the elevator to notify Public Safety. If the elevator does not have an emergency phone, turn on the emergency alarm (located on the front panel), which signals your need for help. If outside a stalled elevator, tell persons inside that help is being summoned, then call Public Safety (909-748-8888) and report. Have someone stand by elevator to keep persons inside informed until help arrives, unless evacuation is imminent.

Gas Leak
 Natural gas has an added odorant which smells like rotten eggs. If you smell gas or hear hissing and suspect a gas leak, cease all operations.

  • Shut off sources of ignition. DO NOT use an open flame, light a match, turn a light on or off, use a telephone (portable, cellular, or regular), unplug appliances, or operate any electrical switch or electronic device during this time as any flames or electric sparks could ignite the leaking gas. If possible, stay away from carpeted areas to avoid sparks of static electricity.

  • Alert others in the area and advise them to do the same.

  • If source is not immediately located and controlled or if it is clearly beyond your control, IMMEDIATELY call Facilities Management (909-748-8020) or Public Safety (909-748-8888) from an unaffected area. Provide location and details.

  • If you suspect a gas cylinder leak and are trained to do so, shut off the cylinder and tighten the hose or pipe connections if they are the source of the leak. DO NOT attempt to repair the leak at the valve threads or safety devices.

  • If you smell natural gas, leave as many windows and doors open as possible.

  • Consider evacuation. If the odor of natural gas is strong, do not hesitate. Proceed to an emergency assembly area at least 500 feet upwind. Have others do the same.

  • Do not re-enter the affected area until advised by emergency personnel that it is safe to do so.

Plumbing Failure/Flooding

Cease using all electrical equipment. Notify Facilities Management (909-748-8020) or Public Safety (909-748-8888) after hours. If necessary, vacate the area of flooding. Shut off water and/or contain flooding, if possible.

Ventilation Problem
 If smoke or offensive odors come from the ventilation system, immediately notify Facilities Management (909-748-8020) or Pubic Safety (909-748-8888). If necessary, cease all operations and vacate the affected area.