TITLE:	ES&H Manual
DOCUMENT ID:	3510 Appendix T3 Tornado Response Procedure

1.0 Purpose

Tornadoes can strike anywhere, at anytime. Jefferson Lab has developed this Tornado Emergency Response procedure so individuals will understand their responsibilities and perform the process steps required for response, accountability, and recovery in the event of a tornado.

2.0 Scope

Tornado response is different from other emergency response procedures as individuals are asked to seek shelter in a building, not leave it. This document outlines Jefferson Lab’s accepted response to a tornado alert.

The process steps for this procedure are performed in coordination with ES&H Manual Chapter3510 Emergency Response Activities.

3.0 Responsibilities

NOTE: Management authority may be delegated at the discretion of the responsible manager.

3.1 Everyone at Jefferson Lab

· Know the emergency evacuation path to the nearest “Take Cover” location in the area of your work.

· Be able to recognize the alarm sound or tone coming from a NOAA weather radio and outdoor emergency warning siren.

· Notify your Supervisor/SOTR/Sponsor/Escort if you are unable to evacuate your work area in the event of an emergency (e.g., unable to use stairs, unable to push an emergency door open).

 
3.2 Safety Wardens

· Ensure accuracy of Building Evacuation Diagrams. (Request an up-dated map or posting from the Emergency Manager if necessary.)
· Ensure the “Take Cover” location is in good condition.
· Ensure the Emergency Weather Radio is working, if questionable, request a new radio from the Emergency Manager. 
 
3.3 Supervisor/Subcontracting Officer’s Technical Representative (SOTR)/Sponsor/ Escort

· Ensure all employees (and visitors) are aware of the Emergency Evacuation Floor Plans and in particular the take cover locations.
· Ensure accommodations for employees with special needs are adequate and understood.

4.0 Process Steps

Responsibilities for each process step are outlined within the procedure.

4.1 Response

All Staff: When a tornado warning alarm sounds or notification is given (i.e. NOAA radio, outdoor emergency warning siren, building PA system, text message, E-mail, word of mouth):

Step 1: Immediately proceed to the assigned “Take Cover” location denoted on the building’s Emergency Evacuation Floor Plan(s)

Sample of the Sever Wind “Take Cover” Icon

Step 2: Wait for additional instructions from your supervisor, or lab management.

4.2 Accountability

All Staff: Assemble at the designated take cover location in accordance with building procedures.

4.3 Recovery

All Staff: Remain at your “take cover” location until authorized by your supervisor, or lab management. (i.e.: Text, E-mail) to return to work.

 
4.3.1 If injuries have occurred 
 
Step 1: Ensure your safety first. Do not attempt to assist others if it is unsafe. 
Step 2: Call 911. 
Step 3: Wait for Emergency Services. (Go to, or send someone, to direct responders to the location.)
Step 4: Upon arrival, direct emergency services to the location of the injured person.

4.3.2 If damage has occurred
 
Step 1: Ensure your safety first. Do not attempt to rectify the situation if it is unsafe.  
Step 2: Call 911 if necessary.
Step 3: Document the damage. If safe, take pictures.
Step 4: Report damage to your supervisor as soon as possible.

5.0 Revision Summary

Revision 0.1 – 02/29/12 – Added link to Emergency Warning Siren.

Revision 0 – 04/18/11 – Content provided in response to a Commonwealth of Virginia safety request.

ISSUING AUTHORITY	TECHNICAL POINT-OF-CONTACT	APPROVAL DATE	EXPIRATION DATE	REV.
ESH&Q Division	Tina Menefee	04/18/11	04/18/16	0

This document is controlled as an on-line file. It may be printed but the print copy is not a controlled document. It is the user’s responsibility to ensure that the document is the same revision as the current on line file. This copy was printed on 3/22/2013.