Evacuation Exemptions

When the alarm sounds, all occupants, unless specifically exempted from evacuation, must immediately evacuate the alarmed area using the nearest exit. If it is safe to do so, occupants should take a moment to shut down equipment and processes that would result in a hazardous condition.

Evacuation exemptions are granted on a very limited basis. The intent of this exemption is to reduce the possibility of compromising a patient or animal's health by stopping, or delaying completion of a surgical or other significant medical procedure.

Evacuation exemption is generally limited to:

  1. Hospital employees performing patient care, as outlined in the hospital's written fire plan.
  2. Personnel performing or supporting surgical procedures when approved in writing by the responsible department head, the Director of EH&S, the Chief of the University Police Department, and the Administrator for UW Risk Management. Exemptions must be renewed every three years.

Requests for exemption should be directed to the EH&S Building and Fire Safety Office at 206.543.0465