Electrical and Fire Safety
Fire Safety
- Pull the Alarm: Immediately pull the nearest fire alarm box in the corridor.
- Call for Help: Notify Campus Security at (808) 544-1400 with the specific location of the fire.
- Exit: Leave the building through the nearest door to the outside.
- Do Not Fight the Fire: Only use fire extinguishers for personal safety to clear an exit path.
- Immediate Action: When the alarm sounds, walk quickly to the nearest exit.
- No Elevators: Do not use elevators during a fire emergency.
- Close Doors: If possible, close the door to your room or corridor as you leave to help contain the fire.
- Assembly: Move to an external assembly area away from the building.
- Wait for Clearance: Only return to the building when authorized by Campus Security or a university official.
- Assist if Possible: Help individuals with mobility difficulties exit the building where possible.
- Stairwell Refuge: Move individuals to a stairwell and ensure all doors are closed to keep the fire out of the area.
- Notify Responders: Immediately inform Campus Security or emergency personnel if someone is waiting in a stairwell for evacuation.
Electrical Safety
Response to Power Outages
- Report the Outage: Notify Campus Security at (808) 544-1400.
- Data Protection: Save all work, back up computer files, and shut down computers to prevent data loss.
- Unplug Sensitive Gear: If equipment is not on a surge protector, unplug it to prevent damage from power surges when service is restored.
- Evacuation: If the outage creates a potential danger, evacuate the building and stay clear of walkways and fire lanes.
Equipment & Prevention
- Reduce Load: Turn off as many lights and electrical items as possible to eliminate fire hazards and lessen the draw on the system during restoration .
- Injury Reporting: If an injury occurs due to an electrical failure, call 9-1-1 or Campus Security immediately.
- Maintenance: To minimize accidents, promptly submit work order requests for flickering lights or exposed wiring to the Facilities Department.
- Cease Use: Stop using all electrical equipment if there is evidence of plumbing failure or flooding in the area.
Vendor and Contractor Safety
Requirements & Compliance
- Safety Standards: All vendors must comply with applicable HIOSH/OSHA, federal, and state safety regulations.
- Credentials: Contractors performing high-risk work must provide proof of relevant certifications, such as OSHA 10/30 or specialized trade licenses.
- Insurance: Proof of insurance and liability coverage must be on file with the university before work begins.
- Permit to Work: High-risk activities (e.g., hot work, confined space entry, or electrical shutdowns) require a pre-authorized permit from HPU Facilities.
On-Site Protocols
- Emergency Reporting: In the event of an accident or hazard discovery, vendors must immediately contact Campus Security at (808) 544-1400.
- Hazard Communication: Vendors must maintain Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for any chemicals brought onto campus and ensure they are available for EHS inspection.
- Site Awareness: Contractors are responsible for knowing the nearest emergency exits and assembly areas for the building in which they are working.
- Location-Specific Hazards: Vendors in Hawaii must be familiar with tsunami evacuation routes, while those in Las Vegas must follow heat illness prevention protocols.
Vendor Code of Conduct
To ensure the safety of our students and staff, all visiting vendors and contractors must adhere to the following:
- Identification: Proper identification must be displayed at all times while on university property.
- PPE: Appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) must be worn at all times in designated construction or maintenance zones.
- Vehicle Safety: Use of university parking lots and loading zones must be pre-authorized. Drivers must adhere to a strict no distracted driving policy while on campus grounds.
- Housekeeping: Work areas must be kept clean and free of tripping hazards; all debris must be removed daily.