Building Safety in a Disaster

Often the most casualties of a disaster are those that are caught unaware and/or do not know what to do, where to go. In order to be prepared, NMSU has several systems that address these problems.

• Emergency Action Plan (Evacuation plan)

One is the Emergency Action Plan (Evacuation plan) for each building. This is a written plan which details the emergency warnings/alarms, reporting system, resources, special considerations for the building, egress routes and assembly areas in the event of any emergency.

The preparation and annual update of this OSHA-required plan is the responsibility of each department. For departments and buildings with chemical labs this plan is a required component of the Chemical Hygiene Plan.  Each department shall report their review information annually to EH&S (see EAP policy). All NMSU areas with chemicals are also required to compile and submit an annual chemical inventory to EH&S (see NMSU HazCom Program). 

EH&S provides classes on the plan and its preparation.  Training as in a departmental review of the EAP is recommended annually. Some plans and buildings are simple, however larger buildings may be need a drill in order to evacuate the building quickly. 

More information on Emergency Plans and chemical safety is provided under policy and  programs on the EH&S website and via the following links:

• NMSU Policy - Emergency Action Plan
   
• Guidance
  • Items to consider in Emergency Action Plans
  • Audit/checklist for Emergency Action Plans
  • Hazardous material spills
    • Hazmat spill procedures
    • Chemical spill preparation - NMSU Lab Safety Guide
    • Spill cleanup stations - NMSU Lab Safety Guide
       
• Example EAP/Evacuation Plan

EAP Training/Classes - This class is provided by EH&S and is available via the training schedule.  Please register via the web link.  To set up a special class for a group or for more information call (646-3327) or email

• NMSU Environmental Health & Safety at (575) 646-3327

• Emergency Alert System

Second is the recently updated emergency alert system (click for description).
 old radio receiver list. 

In an emergency the NMSU Police dispatcher/incident commander will issue standard instructions to advise affected personnel of the procedures to follow. Departments are responsible for developing a reporting tree and methodology to follow to pass the imformation to their employees (example - using voice mail boxes).

A general understanding of the system is recommended.  Individuals should know their position on the reporting tree and the standard instructions they may recieve.