Preparing Units:
Unit heads are responsible for ensuring that all personnel within their unit are trained about the Library’s evacuation procedures and the steps they should take to ensure the safety of their patrons and themselves. The table below lists actions that are the unit head’s preparedness responsibilities and a schedule of when they should occur.
| Action | Schedule |
| Review Evacuation Procedures | Annually before start of tornado season (3/1 – 8/1) with all personnel; at start of any new personnel. |
| Review Safe Spaces Near Unit | Annually before start of tornado season (3/1 – 8/1) with all personnel; at start of any new personnel. |
| Check Flashlight/Radio Batteries | Monthly. |
| Designate Unit Responded and Alternate to Monitor Weather Situation as Needed | As Needed |
Guidelines on Evaluating Safety of Evacuation Spaces
In addition to reviewing evacuation procedures with unit personnel, Unit Heads should evaluate nearby alternate locations to be used only when necessary. The table below lists designated safe spaces, provides a potential alternate, and lists identifying characteristics of spaces that should be avoided. Unit Heads should clearly communicate the location of safe alternate spaces to their personnel, but clearly articulate that these are only intended as points of rescue for disabled patrons and personnel or when no other alternative exists.
| Space | Safe, Only if Necessary, or Avoid? |
| Basement – West Stacks | Safe |
| Enclosed stairwell – West Stacks | Safe |
| Interior offices or bathrooms not eliminated due to criteria below | Only if Necessary |
| Areas with windows | Avoid |
| Corridors with exterior doors | Avoid |
| Upper Levels – 4th floor; 10th Stack Level | Avoid |
| Any space opposite a doorway | Avoid |
| Under skylights or large open ceilings | Avoid |
| Near a swinging door | Avoid |
| Stairways with windows on the north side of the building. | Avoid |