New system for categorizing emergencies unveiled
Washington State University has implemented new systems for categorizing emergencies and reducing operations or closing the university during extreme emergencies.
The process provides guidance for establishing the level of threat and determining full or partial closure. The process will be especially helpful in the months ahead, as winter weather conditions can unexpectedly impact operations.
New WSU Alert categories
A new WSU Alert color-coding system will better inform faculty, staff and students of the level of a potential threat. Changes can be found in WSU’s Business Policies and Procedures Manual under Safety and Security 50.40.3 (PDF)
- Condition Green: Classes and services are operational.
- Condition Yellow: Classes/operations are delayed two hours or may be canceled. Nonessential services are reduced at the discretion of individual unit heads. Essential services remain operational.
- Condition Red: All or part of the university is closed. Nonessential services are suspended. Essential services function with minimal levels of staffing.
The best resource for determining which of these conditions is in force is the WSU Vancouver Alerts website. In the case of a Condition Red, an alert will also appear on our home page.
When conditions warrant an immediate warning, WSU will activate the Emergency Notification System that sends out messages via your choice of text, voicemail or email. To sign up for notification, log into zzusis and click “update your emergency contact information.”
Inclement weather triage team
In the case of inclement weather, Facilities and Operations, Public Safety and the chancellor meet to assess weather warnings and make recommendations for temporary changes to university operations. The goal is to have information about delays or closures made public by 6 a.m. on the day of reported inclement weather.
While the team will make recommendations, individuals remain responsible for their own personal safety and must exercise their own best judgment.