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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

Lockdown Procedures

​​Lockdown is a temporary sheltering technique used to protect employees from a security threat outside the facility.​

  • Stay calm and follow the instructions of law enforcement if provided.
  • Lock doors and close window shades.
  • Stay away from doors and windows.
  • Move to an area that will provide cover.
  • Individuals will not be allowed to enter or leave the facility.
  • Remain in the secured area until the lockdown is lifted.


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