Utility outages do not necessarily represent an emergency that threatens life, but they can cause work disruptions, expensive damage, safety concerns and, can escalate to full-blown emergencies.

Examples of Utility Outages

  • Electric
  • Water
  • Telephone
  • Steam or Gas

 

Safety Issues

Look and report any safety issue caused by, or likely to result from, the outage or continuing operations under current conditions. Some examples are:

Power Outage

Look for safety equipment dependent on power and cease operations if necessary. Examples:

  • Fume hoods in labs
  • Dust evacuation systems
  • Inadequate lighting
  • Alarm activation

 

Elevator failure

  • Passengers should use the emergency phone in the elevator. If necessary, call UTPD or 865-974-3111.
  • Do not attempt to rescue passengers stuck in the elevator
  • Establish and maintain communications with other passengers

 

Plumbing

  • Stop using all electrical equipment
  • Look for slip hazards

 

Gas Leak

  • Cease all operations
  • Do not use light switches
  • Evacuate as soon as possible