ii. Emergency Procedures

• Fire Emergencies
• Chemical Exposures

For any emergency, including fire, explosions, accidents, and medical emergencies, dial 911 from any University phone.  Public Safety personnel will respond, determine whether additional assistance is needed and alert others who can help.

Fire Emergencies (top)

In the event of a fire, Public Safety should be notified immediately at 911 and the following actions are recommended:

1. Put the fire out if you know how to do so without endangering yourself or others.  University policy states that individuals are not required to fight fires, but that those who choose to do so may put out small, incipient stage fires (no bigger than a wastepaper basket) as long as they have been trained in the proper use of fire extinguishers.
   • If you have been trained in the use of a fire extinguisher, fight the fire from a position where you can escape, only if you are confident that you will be successful. Small fires can often be extinguished.
   • A fire contained in a small vessel can usually be suffocated by covering the vessel with a lid of some sort.
2. If your clothing catches fire, drop to the floor and roll to smother the fire, drop to the floor and roll to smother the fire. If a co-worker's clothing catches fire, knock the person to the floor and roll him or her to smother the flames.
3. If the fire is large or spreading, activate the fire alarm to alert building occupants. Leave the fire area and prevent the fire's spread by closing the doors behind you.
4. Evacuate the building and await the arrival of Public Safety. Be prepared to inform them of the exact location and details of the fire.
5. Do not re-enter the building until you are told to do so by Public Safety or the municipal fire official.

Chemical Exposures (top)

The following procedures should be followed in the event of chemical exposure.  In all cases, the incident should be reported to the department manager, regardless of severity. 

Chemicals on Skin

1. Immediately flush with water for no less than fifteen minutes.  Remove any jewelry or clothing that have become contaminated to facilitate removal of any residual material. For pullover shirts and sweaters, it may be beneficial to cut garments off to prevent contamination of eyes.

2. If immediate medical attention is needed, call Public Safety at 911 for an ambulance or transportation to McCosh Health Center.  Explain carefully what chemicals were involved.

3. Review the MSDS to determine if any delayed effects should be expected.

Chemicals in Eyes

1. Flush eye(s) with water for at least fifteen minutes.  The eyes must be forcibly held open to wash, and the eyeballs must be rotated so all surface area is rinsed. The use of an eye wash fountain is desirable so hands are free to hold the eyes open.
2. Remove contact lenses while rinsing.  Do not attempt to rinse and reinsert contact lenses. 
3. Seek medical attention regardless of the severity or apparent lack of severity.  If an ambulance or transportation to McCosh Health Center is needed, contact Public Safety at 911. Explain carefully what chemicals were involved.
4. Review the MSDS to determine if any delayed effects are expected.

Chemical Inhalation

1. Close containers, open windows or otherwise increase ventilation, and move to fresh air.
2. If symptoms, such as headaches, nose or throat irritation, dizziness, or drowsiness persist, seek medical attention by calling Public Safety at 911 or going to McCosh Health Center. Explain carefully what chemicals were involved.
3. Review the MSDS to determine what health effects are expected, including delayed effects.

Accidental Ingestion of Chemicals

1. Immediately go to McCosh Health Center or contact the Poison Control Center at 800-962-1253 for instructions.  Do not induce vomiting unless directed to do so by a health care provider. Explain carefully what chemicals were involved.
2. Review the MSDS to determine what health effects are expected, including delayed effects.

Accidental Injection of Chemicals

1. Wash the area with soap and water.
2. Seek medical attention, if necessary. Explain carefully what chemicals were involved.
3. Review the MSDS to determine what health effects are expected, including delayed effects.

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