If you discover an emergency situation such as fire (smoke), gas or chemical leak, you must tell someone in the vicinity, ring UNSW Security Services on extension 56666 (or 02 9385 6666) and advise other occupants likely to be affected.

Information about an emergency situation is conveyed to the building occupants by the EWIS system (public address). Fire hose reel cabinets are located at each end of all corridors (four on level one) and fire extinguishers are strategically located.

There is a hierarchy of emergency preparedness personnel, comprising a Sector Emergency Controlling Officer (SECO), sub-SECO's, Floor Wardens and emergency teams (fire fighters and first aid officers). Their job is to co-ordinate the emergency response until Security Services, Police or the Fire Brigade take over.

In normal circumstances, the first indication that something is wrong is that you hear the Warning alarm, a continuous "beep....beep". This sound means that you must prepare to evacuate, that is, close windows, turn off equipment, and so on. Instructions will be given by emergency personnel. Follow these instructions as if your life, and others, depends upon it. It may well do!

If the alarm is not manually overridden within three minutes, the Evacuate signal, a continuous "whoop .... whoop" sound is heard. At this point, you MUST evacuate the building by the nearest exit and assemble at the designated assembly point which is the Library lawn, unless instructed otherwise. DO NOT USE LIFTS. Floor Wardens (identified by yellow safety helmet) will give additional instructions.

A number of times per year the building evacuation system will be tested. This could be a test of the EWIS system (alarm/siren/announcement) or a building evacuation drill. Take these tests seriously and obey all instructions from emergency staff. Report equipment malfunction or any issues related to evacuation drill to Floor Warden or OH&S Committee representative.