Building 37 (McNair) | Building NE-83 | Buildings NW17/NW22 |
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Across Albany St in front of Bldg NW21 |
Horizontal evacuation generally means to move on the same floor to another section in the same building or an adjacent building rather than exiting vertically via the stairs or elevator. The advantage to horizontal evacuation is that one may remain inside, protected from the weather, and avoid descending over stairs. Hence, this method is of primary importance to people with disabilities.
For horizontal evacuation to be effective, one must pass through smoke barriers and/or fire barriers. Usually this means smoke or fire doors or perhaps a firewall. The terms fire doors and smoke doors are really synonymous except a fire door can withstand a fire and prevent its passage more effectively because of heavier construction materials and a heftier frame. Smoke doors and their frames are comparatively more lightly constructed and cannot withstand a rigorous fire for as long a period as a fire door. Both, however, will keep deadly smoke and fire confined long enough to make an escape or rescue possible provided they are kept closed. Doors blocked open with wedges, broken or improperly working doors, a fire hose or other object holding the door even a little is enough to render the designed safety effect useless.
It is important to note when evacuating horizontally that it is not enough merely to exit into an adjoining building. It is necessary to go beyond an operating fire or smoke barrier.
Horizontal evacuation will be used whenever possible. Refer to the floor plan for possible routes.
If horizontal evacuation is not possible, staff will assist individuals with disabilities to the nearest enclosed stairway that is free from smoke and tell the person to remain there until help arrives (Fire department, MIT Police Department, etc.). If possible, we will send someone to dial 100 to inform the MIT Police Department of the stairway and floor location.
Evacuation procedures are the same as fire evacuation procedures except it is permissible to use elevators to evacuate. The elevators, however, should be reserved primarily for those who are disabled, elderly, pregnant, have heart or respiratory conditions, or other medical conditions. Others should exit via the stairwells to expedite evacuation. Please follow the directions of supervisory personnel during this situation.
Note: The handling of explosives is strictly a job for professionals. Should you notice something you suspect may be a bomb because it is an unusual item in an area you are very familiar with, do NOT touch it! Report it to the MIT Police Department, Emergency Response personnel, or Fire Department personnel. Be prepared to describe the item and its location.
In the event that an explosion occurs, use the Fire Evacuation Procedures.