GENERAL INFORMATION

Mechanical systems subject to failure include HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), elevators, and plumbing. If the plumbing failure includes water leaks/floods see the section on WATER DAMAGE/LEAKS.

Call the Library Administrative Office (3661) first if the failure occurs during the day. If the failure occurs when the Administrative Office is closed, call the Circulation unit (3486). If the failure affects other units in the buildings such as MRC, Publications or Telecom, the Administrative Office or the Circulation unit should notify them immediately after calling Facilities Operations (3510). If Facilities Operations does not respond to a worsening or threatening situation call Public Safety (4444) and explain the situation.

Someone in your work area should be assigned to make sure that a flashlight is kept in a particular location and that it is in good operating condition. This check should be performed monthly. Remember that batteries can leak, so make sure you check the batteries when you check the flashlight. If new batteries are needed, they should be requested from the Administrative Office.

IF THERE IS A POWER FAILURE IN THE LIBRARY:

1. Your first concern should be for the safety of the people in the building. Circulation should notify Public Safety (4444) immediately.
2. The Library has an emergency generator that should provide emergency lighting during a general power failure. Your work area also has a flashlight available for use during blackouts.
3. Circulation will coordinate a building search including elevators, decks, and bathrooms. If you are in the building during a power failure, go to Circulation with a flashlight; use it to insure that people are safe during the blackout, or to assist in evacuating the building if that becomes necessary.
4. If the power failure occurs at night or is an extended one, the Dean of Libraries (or person in charge of the Library at that time) will make a decision* on continuing library operations. If it is deemed necessary to evacuate the building, a Circulation supervisor will call Public Safety (4444) and request assistance with a walk-through to help people exit.

*See Appendix, Guidelines for Library Hours and Inclement Weather