In Case of Emergency: Evacuation Procedures

All of your employees should be familiar with your building's evacuation procedures in the case of any emergency occurring in the office. Knowing what to do during these situations is key to life safety. Here are some general rules from the Mack-Cali Tenant Handbook that may help you become more prepared.

Emergency Evacuations
Adopt emergency plans in advance using the following as guidelines:

  • Safety or floor wardens should be appointed by each tenant to coordinate evacuation. When the notice to evacuate is given, floor wardens should immediately gather their groups together and walk to the closest exit stairway and walk down, out and away from the building.
  • Floor wardens should ensure their group stays together, and should take a head count once evacuation is complete.
  • Do not attempt to use the elevator.
  • Tenants should stay away from the building and from any emergency equipment.
  • If there is a fire, make sure a 911 call has been placed and the Building Manager has been notified.
  • Establish procedures for evacuation of persons with disabilities.
  • Post a floor diagram within your suite so staff can clearly see designated exits.
  • Develop a complete checklist for emergency shutdown procedures.
  • Instruct and train personnel to implement the shut-down procedures.

    Fire/Life Safety
    Please remember—when the fire alarm sounds, all tenants must evacuate the building immediately. This is required by Fire Department regulations.

    If you discover a fire or smoke condition on your floor, please activate the nearest manual pull station. This will sound a signal throughout the building and at the fire command station and will alert the Fire Department. Notify your Building Manager.

    All employees should know the location of:

  • The fire stairs on your floor.
  • The manual pull stations.
  • The nearest fire extinguisher.

    Suspicious Devices
    Never disturb a suspicious device. If a suspicious device is located, evacuate the area and immediately contact the building manager or police. In the event of a bomb threat, the decision to evacuate must be made by an authorized representative of your company.

    For additional information about any unique procedures in your building, contact your building manager.