Building Systems (Utilities)

Response:

Work Coordination Center:  541-737-2969

OSU Department of Public Safety (737-7000 (emergency), 737-3010 (non-emergency)

Environmental Health & Safety:  541-713-7233 (SAFE)

In the event of extended utility loss (power, water, sewage, etc.) to a facility, certain precautionary measures should be taken depending on the geographical location and environment of the facility:

  1. Evacuate the building if necessary
    • Lab hood ventilation is lost
  2. Contact Facility Services (541-737-2969) to report the problem
  3. Confirm the backup generator has started
  4. If stuck in the elevator, use the elevator intercom to request assistance
    • Remain calm
    • Call out for help if the intercom does not work
    • DO NOT attempt to exit the elevator without emergency responders present
  5. Be prepared to provide fire monitors if occupancy is permitted during a utility outage
  6. Building re-entry:

    • If the building DOES NOT have a backup generator, and the life safety/fire detection system is not powered, a Fire Watch has to be implemented if the building is to be re-occupied while the power is out. A Fire Watch must:

      • Be competent to identify fire hazards
      • Be able to communicate to the fire department if a response is needed
      • Be familiar with the structure and emergency plan
      • Perform patrols every 15 minutes to look for instances of fire
      • Keep a log sheet: Person’s name, time each activity was conducted, description of activity
    • If the building has a backup generator that powers the life safety/fire detection systems, confirm the generator is running and re-occupy the building.
    • If the building has laboratory hoods, contact EH&S (541-713-7233 (SAFE)) for habitability evaluation prior to any building occupancy.

Recovery:

  1. Electronic equipment should be brought up to ambient temperatures before energizing to prevent condensate from forming on circuitry.
  1. Fire and potable water piping should be checked for leaks from freeze damage after the heat has been restored to the facility and water turned back on.

Mitigation:

  • Identify utility cutoff switches/valves and who can operate them
  • Coordinate with Facility Operations for pre-planning of response events

Preparedness:

  • Train personnel on response to different types of utility failures
    • When to evacuate
    • When building access will be denied