Recently in Emergencies/Safety/Security Category

From Wilson FOM:

The emergency alarm sounded at 3:28pm, on Wednesday, July 7, due
to water pressure changes in the sprinkler system.  University Facilities Management
is working on a solution to this problem.
  Thanks again for evacuating the building so quickly.


We would like to add that when the building is evacuated, please check in with a supervisor once outside. That way we know that everyone has made it out of the building safely.

A note from Wendy Lougee.....

Now that winter is upon us, I wanted to take a moment to share the official communication procedures of the University of Minnesota and the University Libraries during inclement weather.Libraries staff should listen to WCCO Radio (830 AM) for official University closing information. Details also will be posted on the University's website home page:  http://www.umn.edu/. 

In the event the University Twin Cities campus does close for weather-related or other events, University administration will send an email to all Twin Cities faculty, staff, and students with details about the closing. The University Librarian's main phone number (612-624-4520) will have a voice-mail message repeating the official closing information.
 
Staff who work weekend and evening shifts should call the University Librarian's main number (612-624-4520) if they believe the University may be closed or closing on the day of their shift. 
 
The university also has a text-messaging system (TXT-U) which sends text message alerts to individual's cell phones.  This is a subscription service. To learn more about the system and/or sign up for alerts, go to www.txt-u.umn.edu.  If you have any questions about communications procedures, please speak with your supervisor.
 

Wilson FOM has set up 2 classes to go over the library's Emergency Procedures and Safety. We strongly encourage all students to attend one of these sessions, especially if you are new to working in the library.
The sessions are Wednesday, September 30 10-11am  and Monday October 12 1-2pm. Please register for the class at:
https://onestop2.umn.edu/training/courseDetail.jsp?course=LB0240.
After registering, inform Pat, Katie or me of what session you will be attending.

Here are some general guidelines for specific situations. Do not hesitate to remove yourself from any situation you feel is unsafe. Never be afraid to call 911. It's better to be safe than sorry.

Harassment

• Harassment includes directed verbal, sexual, and physical behaviors that make someone feel threatened or uncomfortable.
  
• If you feel that someone is harassing you, leave the situation immediately.
  
• Immediately notify a supervisor of the situation.
  
• Call 911 if the situation warrants.

Aberrant Behavior

• If a patron appears intoxicated, or is acting aggressively or offensively, do not confront them. Do not intervene in heated arguments or fights.
  
• Notify others working in the area and leave the area immediately.
  
• If the patron is threatening another person, call 911 immediately.
  
• Report the situation to a supervisor.

In all cases, be sure to fill out an Incident Report.

Fire

• If the fire alarm sounds, leave the building immediately. DO NOT USE THE ELEVATORS. Exit the building and proceed to the front of the building, near the sundial. A supervisor will meet you there.
  
• DO NOT use the tunnel on the basement level as an exit.
  
• The service desk offices will be locked when the building is evacuated. DO NOT attempt to return for your possessions.

Severe Weather

• If a severe weather warning is issued for the university area, supervisors will notify student employees.

University Closings

• University closings are announced on WCCO 830 AM. Closing information will also available through calling the University Librarian's Office (612) 624-4520 or checking the university homepage.

Water Leaks in the Stacks

• If you see water, wet ceiling tiles, damp books, or other signs of leaks, notify a supervisor immediately. If no supervisor is available, notify the Library Office (612) 624-4520. Notify Facilities Management at (612) 625-0011 when the Library Office is closed.
  
• Check for, and remove, any damp or wet books from the shelves. Place them on a nearby table. Stand them up and fan the pages open.
  
• Cover the affected stack ranges with plastic sheeting. The plastic is kept in the Book Return Room in Circulation on the 1st floor and in the Annex. Cut the plastic long enough to cover the affected area and unfold it. Keep in mind that leaks can spread and cause splashes.
  
• Once the plastic sheeting is in place, move a trash can into the affected aisle. Place the ends of the sheeting in the trash can. This will direct the flow into the trash can and prevent further damage.