Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs)
The university wishes to assist all members of staff or students who may have difficulty in evacuating any University buildings in the event of an emergency such as a fire. These difficulties could arise from permanent, long term or temporary disability. Although not exhaustive, the following is a guide as to what may be relevant:
- Mobility impairment ranging from strains and sprains through use of walking aids to being confined to a wheelchair. Most relevant are problems using stairs, travelling distances or open doors.
- Visual or hearing problems. In particular if you may not become aware that a Fire alarm has actuated or be able to follow directions (signs or verbal).
- Use of medication, drugs or alcohol. If using our sleeping accommodation and you may not become aware that a Fire alarm has actuated or react in the usual way.
- Mental health problems or learning difficulties. Those relevant would be such as panic attacks or inability to follow or comprehend instructions.
People who believe they may have difficulty during emergency evacuations of University buildings should contact the Fire Safety Officer by email fire @essex.ac.uk or calling (01206 87) 4847. Staff may also contact Equality and Diversity on ext. 3507 or by emailing diversity @essex.ac.uk. Students may contact Student Support. If you are a manager, supervisor or tutor with responsibility for such people you have a duty to encourage them to make contact however, anyone who believes someone else may have difficulties should encourage them to make contact.
In order for us to decide the appropriate arrangements for each case we will conduct an assessment. This will be done on a completely confidential basis, even protecting anonymity if required. The arrangements will be detailed in a "PEEP" document which will be supplied to the individual and a copy kept by the Fire Safety Officer. Relevant details may be passed to others, but only if considered necessary.
We will attempt to take into account all areas you frequent, whether for work or social activity. Various arrangements can be made. These will be tailored to the individual and could include physical assistance, technical aids, more suitable accommodation and training.