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Because of a lapse in government funding, the information on this website may not be up to date, transactions submitted via the website may not be processed, and the agency may not be able to respond to inquiries until appropriations are enacted. The NIH Clinical Center (the research hospital of NIH) is open. For more details about its operating status, please visit cc.nih.gov. Updates regarding government operating status and resumption of normal operations can be found at opm.gov.

Emergency Procedures

Return to the Basic Emergency Procedures home page

Preparedness Basics

What every employee should know

Evacuation Procedures

When you must quickly leave the building or fire zone

Lockdown Procedures

​​Temporary security measures to stay safe inside

Shelter-in-Place (SIP) Procedures

When it is safer to stay inside during a storm or HAZMAT

Active Shooter

Run, Hide, Fight

Workplace Violence Prevention

Warning signs and what you can do

Bomb Threat

Procedures to remember and a checklist to print

Earthquake

What to do when the ground shakes

Fire

What to do when you see a fire or hear the alarm

Hazardous Materials Spill or Release

Follow your lab’s emergency response procedures

Maintenance Emergency (Power Failure, Flooding, Gas Leak)

For all maintenance or facility-related emergencies​

Severe Weather (Tornado or Thunderstorm)

Be ready to act quickly if a weather warning is issued​

Closures and Dismissals

Check the current OPM Operating Status​

Guidance for Individuals with Disabilities

Make a plan with your supervisor

Additional Resources

Learn More

Maintenance Emergency (Power Failure, Flooding, Gas Leak)

​​For all maintenance or facility-related emergencies:

  • Stop and secure hazardous work.
  • Call the 24-hour Maintenance Operations Center at 301-435-8000 to report the emergency.

Note: Routine (non-emergency) maintenance service requests can be submitted using an online form (NIH network required) or by calling 301-435-8000. More information can be found on the Maintenance Service Requests website.

Power Failure:

  • Remain where you are and open all available blinds/shades/curtains to receive outside light.
  • If you are in an unlit area, carefully move to an area that has emergency lighting.
  • If instructed to evacuate, walk to the nearest exit and to your designated assembly area to await further instructions.

Flooding:

  • If water is present, stop using all electrical equipment and use extreme caution if any electrical appliances/outlets are near the water.
  • Never attempt to unplug or remove an electrical appliance or wire from a flooded area.
  • If instructed to evacuate, proceed carefully to the nearest exit.
  • Be aware of loose ceiling tiles, uneven or unstable floors, and risk of personal injury from slips, trips, or falls.

Gas Leaks:

  • Unusual odors should be considered an emergency. Immediately call​ 911.
  • Extinguish any open flames.
  • Do not use any electrical appliances (microwaves, stoves, etc.).
  • Do not turn on/off light switches.
  • If you begin to feel ill or suspect a serious leak, evacuate the building/leave the area and call 911 if you need medical assistance.
  • If instructed to evacuate, proceed carefully to the nearest exit.​​