Melbourne (Bundoora) Campus

Emergency Plan

Evacuation/Refuge Plan (for those persons with Disabilities)

Even though emergency personnel are usually available to assist with evacuation, this may not always be the case. Those with mobility concerns or other concerns that would make independent evacuation difficult are encouraged to make alternative plans and arrangements in advance which will increase the likelihood that individual will be able to exit a building safely in the event of an emergency.

Every individual must quickly become familiar with their area by locating exits, stairwells, elevators, fire fighting equipment, fire alarms, and possible areas of rescue.

NOTE: Possible areas of rescue can be in a fire isolated stairwell/fire escape, areas adjacent to a stairwell or fire escape, a window facing the outside or a room within the structure; attempt to select a room with a phone. It is understood that older structures may not have adequate landings within the stairwells to accommodate wheelchairs. Individuals are encouraged to use protected stairwells for exiting if possible.

For those who have difficulty speaking or those with hearing impairments who have difficulty judging volume, it may be useful to carry a whistle or a similar device for the purpose of announcing your location to emergency services personnel who will be attempting to search for those in need of assistance. Individual are encouraged to carry personal cell phones to contact emergency services personnel if in need of assistance. Contact Security by phoning 03 9479 2222. The routine number for the Melbourne Fire Brigade is 000. In case of an emergency please phone 000. Be prepared to give your name, your building, your floor and location, the reason you are calling and your particular needs.

Advise others (supervisors, administrators, instructors, colleagues, fellow students) about any concerns that you may have related to emergency exiting and how they can assist you in the even of an emergency. This can include assistance to exits, possible areas of rescue and alerting emergency services of your location.

Assisting those with Disabilities, Evacuation Guidelines

It is recommended that each Department establish a 'buddy' system in which volunteers and alternates are recruited and paired with persons who have self identified disabilities that would create special evacuation needs. Volunteers should become familiar with the special evacuation needs of their buddies and plan to alert and assist them if an evacuation is ordered. Volunteers should keep in mind that many people with disabilities can assist in their evacuation.

Persons with Visual Impairments

In the event of an emergency, tell the person the nature of the emergency and offer to guide him/her. As you walk, tell the person where you are and advise of any obstacles. Do not grasp a visually impaired person's arm. Offer your arm for guidance.

Persons with Hearing Impairments

Not all fie systems have a flashing light. Most are sound alarms. Therefore, persons with impaired hearing may not perceive emergency alarms and an alternative warning technique is required. Two methods of warning are:

• Writing a note telling what the emergency is and the nearest evacuation route/safe staging area
• Tapping the person on the shoulder or turning the light switch on and off to gain attention, then indicating through gestures, or in writing, what is happening and what to do.

Persons Using Crutches, Canes, or Walkers

If the person is having difficulty exiting quickly, treat him/her as if injured for evacuation purposes. Carrying options include using a two-person, lock-arm position, or having the person sit in a sturdy chair, preferably with arms. For level travel, an office chair with wheels could be utilised.

Non-Ambulatory Persons

The needs and preferences of non-ambulatory persons will vary. Most non-ambulatory persons will be able to exit safely without assistance on the ground floor. Some people have minimal ability to move and lifting them may be painful and/or injurious. Frequently, non-ambulatory persons have respiratory complications. Remove them from smoke or fumes immediately.

Always consult the person as to his/her preference with regard to:

• Ways of being removed from the wheelchair
• The number of people necessary for assistance
• Whether to extend or move extremities when lifting because of pain, catheter bags, braces etc
• Being carried forward or backward on a flight of stairs
• After-care, if removed from the wheelchair