Special Procedures for
Code Red

Security:  Security will call Philadelphia Fire Department and provide the address and floor number to where the Code Red is occurring. Security will meet the Philadelphia Fire Department at the building entrance and escort them to the fire location. They will also maintain communications at the fire location and direct those not involved in the emergency to evacuate the area. They are authorized to stop non- emergency responders from entering the building. They will also communicate with Facilities Services to assure that everyone is aware of the code red and any condition encountered. They will also notify the Telephone Operators and Facilities if there is a Code Red Confirmed.

Telephone Operators:  Immediately upon being notified of a fire or visible smoke, telephone operators will initiate an in-house Code Red.

Facilities Services Control Room:  Upon receipt of an alarm, Control Room personnel will dispatch via mobile radio all Jefferson employees assigned to the Emergency Response Team to the fire location. They will also notify Security to assure that everyone has received the alarm.

Emergency Response Team:  Employees from the Maintenance, Security and Environmental Health & Safety Departments staff the Emergency Response Team. They shall immediately upon notification of a fire alarm proceed to the area of alarm. 

Elevators:  Do not use the elevators during a code red. Security will escort the fire department and emergency response team to the code red location. Elevators must be available in case of evacuation.

Operating Rooms: If surgery is in progress, all decisions affecting the patient’s welfare will be made by the surgeon/physician in charge. OR personnel must be familiar with the locations of medical gas shut-offs.

The Emergency Response Team is directed by the University Fire Marshal, Director of Environmental Health & Safety, Director of Facilities Services or the senior team member present.