Successful evacuation drill at Biomedicum provided valuable lessons

This year’s evacuation drill in Biomedicum was held on 9 September. To reduce crowding at the assembly point, the building was evacuated in two stages. During the first drill, building sections B and C, as well as the atrium, dining rooms and faculty club, were evacuated. One hour later, the drill was carried out in building sections A and D.

Evacuation drills are an important part of Biomedicum’s systematic fire safety work and are carried out annually to give staff and students the opportunity to practise how to evacuate safely in an emergency. The drills also help identify areas for improvement in both procedures and technical systems.

Strong engagement and fast evacuation

This year’s drill showed that Biomedicum has a solid foundation for safe evacuation. In many quarters, the evacuation was carried out quickly and in an organized manner, and several members of staff took responsibility by supporting their colleagues and acting as evacuation leaders.

At both drill sessions, the gathering at the assembly point generally worked well. Most people followed the designated evacuation routes and made their way to the correct assembly area. The arrangement with two separate drills also helped reduce pressure at the assembly point and provided better conditions for observation and follow-up.

Important lessons for the future

As in previous years, the drill provided valuable information about areas where procedures and knowledge can be further strengthened.

One clear observation was that knowledge of how the building’s alarm system works varies between different operations. Some people began evacuating even though their area was not covered by the alarm, while others stayed behind even though their quarter should have been evacuated. The observations show that there is a need for continued information and training on how the fire alarm is structured and how to act in response to alarms in different areas.

The drill also highlighted the importance of checking the fire alarm display to obtain information about where the alarm has been activated and which areas are affected. A better understanding of these procedures can contribute to calmer and more effective action in future incidents.

Technical improvements planned

A number of technical details were also identified during the drill and will be followed up. Among other things, it was noted that the sound level of the alarm was perceived as low in some laboratory environments and that some fire doors and fire curtains did not function as intended.

In addition, the need for improved signage in certain locations was noted, along with adjustments to individual evacuation routes. Akademiska Hus and the relevant suppliers have been informed of the identified shortcomings, and several measures have already been planned.

Next steps

As part of the continued fire safety work, Biomedicum will strengthen its information efforts regarding evacuation procedures and fire safety. This includes plans for a clearer introduction for new employees, as well as continued work on training and communication relating to fire and evacuation procedures.

Evacuation drills are an important tool for creating a safe and secure working environment. Through the strong engagement shown during this year’s drill and the improvement measures now being implemented, Biomedicum is well equipped to continue developing its fire safety work.

Thank you to all staff, evacuation leaders and other functions who took part in and contributed to this year’s evacuation drill in Biomedicum.