Our commitment to safety and security

The safety of MSVU students, faculty, staff, and the surrounding community is our primary concern. In fulfilling our commitment to Occupational Health & Safety, we provide a safe working and learning environment, and the training opportunities to support this environment. Members of the MSVU community are expected to comply with laws, regulations, rules and policies while on the University campus. Acts of violence or threats of violence at MSVU are not tolerated and may result in disciplinary action. MSVU commits to the prevention of workplace violence through education, as well as the appropriate response to these incidents when they occur.

MSVU’s updated Emergency Response Plan (ERP) will be available soon.

The below sections outline specific emergency protocols for a variety of scenarios that may occur on or near campus. All members of the MSVU community are expected to familiarize themselves with these procedures. Everyone is responsible for their own safety and for contributing to the safety of others.

Accessibility Considerations

For those who experience barriers that may prevent or slow evacuation:

  • Emergency services will be notified to assist.
  • Individuals requiring evacuation assistance should complete and submit a “Registration Form for a Person Requiring Assistance” at the start of each term.
  • Forms are available through Accessibility Services or Campus Security.

Bomb Threat

Immediate Actions Upon Receiving a Bomb Threat

If Received by Telephone

  • Remain calm and attempt to gather as much information as possible (e.g., location of the device, time of detonation, caller’s tone and background noise).
  • Ask the following questions:
    • Where is the bomb located?
    • What does it look like?
    • When or what will cause it to explode?
    • What kind of bomb is it?
    • How do you know about the bomb?
  • Notify Campus Security’s Emergency Line immediately at 902-457-6111.

If Received in Writing (e.g., fax, email, text)

  • Notify Campus Security’s Emergency Line immediately at 902-457-6111.
  • Handle the document as little as possible to preserve evidence.
  • Turn over the document to Campus Security for investigation.

If a Suspicious Item is Found

  • Do not touch or move the item.
  • Notify Campus Security immediately.
  • Campus Security will initiate response procedures in accordance with established protocols.

Evacuation Procedures

If notified to evacuate, follow these steps:

  1. Remain calm and follow instructions promptly.
  2. If time permits, take essential personal items (e.g., coat, handbag, briefcase, medications).
  3. Exit the building using the nearest accessible exit.
  4. Move away from the building and proceed to the designated muster station, unless directed otherwise.
  5. Wait for further instructions. Updates will be provided via:
    • Mount Alert
    • Authorized emergency personnel
    • Campus Security

Only return to the building when an All Clear is issued.

Fire Emergency

Immediate Actions

  1. If you become aware of smoke or fire in your area, leave the area immediately.
  2. Close the doors behind you to contain fire and smoke.
  3. Activate the nearest fire alarm station to alert others in the building.
  4. Evacuate calmly using the nearest safe exit.
  5. Contact Campus Security’s Emergency Line at 902-457-6111 from a safe location.
  6. If necessary, call 911 (or 9-911 from a campus phone) to request emergency services.
  7. Proceed to the nearest muster station.
  8. Remain at the muster station until further instructions or the All Clear is provided.

Caution

  • If you encounter smoke in a stairwell, use an alternate exit if possible. If no safe exit is available, seek refuge in the nearest room and alert Security or emergency personnel.
  • If available, place a wet cloth at the base of the door or over your mouth to reduce smoke inhalation.
  • Know the locations of fire alarm pull stations in your area.
  • Know where your nearest fire extinguisher is located, as well as your primary and alternate exits.
  • Do not use elevators unless explicitly instructed to do so by emergency personnel.

Power Outage

In the event of a power outage, building occupants should follow the procedures outlined below.

Response Procedures

  • Remain calm and assess your surroundings.
  • Move to a naturally lit area and await further instructions.
  • Report the outage to Campus Security at 902-457-6111.
  • If instructed by Campus Security, or if the fire alarm is activated, evacuate the building and proceed to your designated muster station.
  • Emergency lighting in corridors and stairwells will activate and typically last approximately 20 minutes, allowing safe evacuation.
  • Do not re-enter the building unless authorized by Mount Alert, Campus Security or Authority Having Jurisdiction.
  • If trapped in an elevator, use the emergency telephone to contact Campus Security.
  • If in a dark workspace and unable to move safely, stay in place and notify Campus Security at 902-457-6111.
  • If in residence, follow instructions from your RA, Don, or Campus Security.
  • Assist others, if it is safe and reasonable to do so.

Additional Considerations

  • If the outage is expected to be prolonged, announcements may be made regarding building closures or relocations.
  • In buildings with laboratories, do not resume work until ventilation systems (e.g., fume hoods) are confirmed operational.
  • Consider keeping a flashlight, batteries, and a portable radio in your workspace or residence.
  • Candles and other open flame devices are strictly prohibited in all campus buildings.

Natural Crisis

Shelter-in-Place Protocol

Shelter-in-Place is used during environmental or weather-related emergencies when it is safer to keep occupants inside campus buildings. This may be necessary during:

  • Hurricanes
  • Severe snow or ice storms
  • High wind events
  • Air quality emergencies (e.g., wildfire smoke)

Shelter-in-Place Guidelines:

  • Move to the center of the building or an interior room without windows.
  • Remain in a designated safe area until the threat has passed.
  • Seek shelter under sturdy furniture (e.g., a desk) if needed.
  • Protect your head and neck from potential debris.
  • Do not go outside unless instructed by emergency personnel.

Weather Emergency Guidelines

Weather conditions can change rapidly and significantly impact university operations. To stay informed:

  • Check the MSVU website for updates on class cancelations and closure announcements.
  • Follow MSVU’s social media channels.
  • Listen to local radio and TV news for weather advisories.
  • Check MSVU SAFE App for updates.
  • Stay tuned for updates and information via Mount Alert and MSVU SAFE App.

If Stranded on Campus During a Natural Crisis

  • Assess your personal safety before deciding to stay or leave.
  • Notify Campus Security of your location.
  • Follow instructions from Campus Security, Residence Life staff, or emergency personnel.

Infectious Disease Outbreak

Early reporting is critical to effectively managing infectious disease incidents. All members of the MSVU community share responsibility for identifying and reporting potential outbreaks. The Health Protection Act requires diseases and conditions listed as notifiable diseases are reported to Nova Scotia Health.

Reporting Responsibilities:

  • Individuals who have attended campus and become aware of a suspected or confirmed notifiable disease case must:
    • Report to the Safety Officer
    • Provide all relevant information to the Safety Officer
  • MSVU will notify the Nova Scotia Department of Health, which will provide direction and oversight, as required.

Active Aggressor and Violence Reporting Protocol

Active Aggressor Protocol (On-Campus)

An active aggressor is an individual actively engaged in causing harm or attempting to do so, often with the intent to injure or kill. If you witness or receive credible information about an active aggressor on campus, immediately initiate the Run – Hide – Fight protocol:

Run – Hide – Fight

  • Run – If it is safe to escape, do so immediately.
  • Hide – If escape is not possible, find a secure location to hide.
  • Fight – As a last resort, be prepared to defend yourself aggressively.

Immediate Actions

  • Exit the area if safe and proceed to a secure location.
  • Call 911 (or 9-911 from a campus phone), then contact Campus Security at 902-457-6111.
  • If hiding:
    • Lock or barricade doors with available materials.
    • Cover windows and turn off lights.
    • Silence cell phones and remain quiet, low, and spread out.
    • Do not huddle together.
  • Continually reassess your surroundings and options.
  • Await further instructions via Mount Alert, Campus Security, or authorized emergency personnel.

Violence Reporting Protocol (On or Near Campus)

All incidents of violence must be reported to Campus Security immediately.

Campus Security will:

  • Conduct an initial investigation and risk assessment.
  • Contact emergency services if necessary.
  • Activate the Mount Alert mass notification system if the threat is ongoing or escalates.

Response Protocols: Lockdown vs. Hold and Secure

A Lockdown is initiated when there is an immediate threat to campus (e.g., active aggressor, armed individual). The goal is to isolate and protect individuals from harm.

Lockdown Procedures:

  • Take shelter in the nearest secure room (classroom, office, residence).
  • Lock or barricade the door.
  • Stay away from windows and doors.
  • Remain silent and out of sight.
  • Do not open doors until an All Clear is issued.

All building entrances will be locked to prevent entry. Individuals must remain in place until notified otherwise.

Hold and Secure Procedures:

A Hold and Secure is initiated based on the nature and proximity of the threat to campus, (e.g., police activity in the surrounding area).

  • Outer doors of campus buildings are locked.
  • No one may enter or exit the building.
  • Campus operations continue as normal inside the buildings.
  • Individuals must remain indoors and await instructions or until an All Clear is issued.

This protocol is precautionary and designed to prevent individuals from inadvertently entering a dangerous area.

Code Adam

A Code Adam is the response used to locate a missing child on campus. If you are aware of a missing child on campus, you should follow the steps below.

Response Procedures

  1. Report the missing child to Campus Security at 902-457-6111.
  2. Provide the child’s name, description and clothing, and last known location.
  3. Follow any department issued Code Adam procedures.
  4. Campus Security working with Facilities Management staff will initiate their Code Adam procedure to locate the child.
  5. If the child is not located within 10 minutes, 911 must be contacted.
  6. Await an All Clear or further instructions via Mount Alert, Campus Security, Authority Having Jurisdiction.

If You Locate a Child Reported Missing

  1. Approach calmly, greeting them with their name
  2. Let them know they are not in trouble and ask they remain in the area
  3. Contact Campus Security, who will arrive to confirm the identity of the child

If You See a Person with a Child Matching the Description:

  1. Relay this information immediately to Campus Security at 902-457-6111.
  2. Ask both the person and child for their names.
  3. Use reasonable efforts to delay, but do not physically intervene or put yourself at risk.
  4. If they appear to be leaving campus, call 911 immediately.

Animal Attacks

While animal attacks on campus are unlikely, wildlife and domestic animals such as crows, deer, dogs, cats, rats, coyotes, and foxes may be present. Prevention is the most effective defense.

Prevention Guidelines

  • Avoid contact with wild or stray animals.
  • Do not feed or attempt to pet any animal on campus.

If Confronted or an Attack Occurs:

  1. Do not run – running may trigger a chase response.
  2. Back away slowly, facing the animal.
  3. Make noise to discourage the animal from approaching.
  4. Seek shelter indoors as quickly and safely as possible.
  5. Call Campus Security’s Emergency Line at 902-457-6111 immediately.
  6. If an attack occurs, seek medical attention.
  7. Provide Campus Security with details about the animal and the location of the incident.
  8. Campus Security will contact the appropriate animal control or wildlife authorities to respond to the situation.

Flooding

Flooding May Occur Due to:

  • Burst pipes (often caused by freezing)
  • Sprinkler system activation
  • Severe weather with high levels of precipitation
  • External water sources entering buildings

Interior Flooding Response

If flooding occurs inside a building:

  1. Leave the affected area immediately and move to a safe location within the building.
  2. Avoid using elevators.
  3. Call Campus Security at 902-457-6111.
  4. Provide your name, location, and a brief description of the situation.
  5. Do not re-enter the flooded area until authorized by Campus Security or emergency personnel.

Campus-Wide Flooding and Evacuation

If flooding affects multiple buildings or the broader campus:

  • The Emergency Management Team (EMT) may initiate a campus evacuation.
  • Designated vehicle routes will be established to keep roadways clear for emergency responders.
  • Campus Security or staff may be posted to direct traffic flow, if safe to do so.
  • If necessary, MSVU may arrange for temporary relocation of community members to an alternate safe location.

If Directed to Evacuate

  1. Follow designated evacuation routes provided by Campus Security.
  2. Do not walk-through floodwaters – even shallow water can be dangerous.
  3. Do not drive through flooded areas – water depth may be deceptive.
  4. If your vehicle is in a flooded lot, do not attempt to move it until cleared by Campus Security.
  5. Await an All Clear or further instructions via Mount Alert, Campus Security, Authority Having Jurisdiction.

Exterior Flooding Response

During heavy rainfall or external flooding:

  • Remain indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.
  • Avoid basement or below-ground areas.
  • Be aware that Bedford Highway is prone to flooding during severe rain events. Campus exit routes may be redirected by Campus Security.
  • Follow all instructions from Mount Alert, Campus Security, or Authority Having Jurisdiction.

Chemical Spills

Chemical spills may involve substances such as flammables, corrosives, oxidizers, and toxics. All MSVU community members who work with hazardous materials must be properly trained and familiar with Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for each substance.

General Safety Requirements

  • SDS must be readily accessible at all times in any area where hazardous materials are used or stored.
  • Lab supervisors are responsible for ensuring that staff receive appropriate training, SDS availability, and that the chemical inventory repository is regularly maintained through the MSVU online database.
  • Employees must review SDS before working with any hazardous material and understand proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and spill response procedures.

Response Protocol

Section 1: If You Are Training and Equipped to Respond

Before initiating cleanup, confirm the following:

  • Are you familiar with the SDS for the substance?
  • Do you understand the hazards involved?
  • Do you have the appropriate spill kit and PPE for the chemical?

If yes to all, proceed with cleanup:

  1. Inform others in the area of the spill.
  2. Remove ignition sources if the material is combustible and it is safe to do so.
  3. Stop or contain the leak if safe to do so.
  4. Review the SDS and don appropriate PPE.
  5. Begin cleanup using the chemical spill kit and procedures outlined in the SDS.
  6. Contact Campus Security at 902-457-6111 and provide:
    • Your name
    • Nature of the emergency
    • Location of the spill
  7. Campus Security will notify the MSVU Safety Officer.
  8. Use a scoop or dustpan to collect used absorbent and place it in the designated container provided in the spill kit.
  9. Label the container and report it to the area supervisor or Facilities Management for proper disposal.

Section 2: If You Are Not Trained or Equipped to Respond

  1. Evacuate the area immediately and close the door behind you.
  2. Activate the building alarm using the nearest fire alarm pull station.
  3. Proceed to the designated muster station for your building.
  4. Once safe, call Campus Security at 902-457-6111 and provide:
    • Your name
    • Nature of the emergency
    • Location of the spill
  5. Campus Security will notify the Fire Department and the MSVU Safety Officer.
  6. Do not re-enter the area until an All Clear or further instructions are issued by Mount Alert, Campus Security, or AHJ.

Gas Leaks

Gas Leaks May Involve:

  • Flammable gases (e.g., propane, methane)
  • Combustible or corrosive gases
  • Toxic gases
  • Oxygen or other pressurized gases

Response Procedures

If a gas leak is detected or suspected:

  1. Call Campus Security’s Emergency Line at 902-457-6111 immediately.
  2. If qualified and it is safe to do so, attempt to identify and stop the source of the leak.
  3. Evacuate the area and move to a safe location.
  4. Provide Campus Security with:
    • Your name
    • The nature of the emergency
    • The location of the leak
  5. Campus Security will assess the situation and notify the appropriate authorities (e.g., Fire Department, Facilities Management).
  6. Do not re-enter the area until an All Clear or further instructions are issued by Mount Alert, Campus Security, or AHJ

Emergency Communications

When notification to the campus is required, you will receive updates via:

  • The Mount’s website (msvu.ca)
  • Mount Alert notifications
  • Broadcast voicemail (to all campus phones)
  • Social media (Facebook.com/MountSaintVincentUniversity and Twitter @MSVU_Halifax)
  • E-mail (to your Mount account)
  • Verbal and face-to-face communication

Emergency notifications will provide a short description of the emergency and what you are asked to do (i.e. an evacuation).

 

Mount Alert

MSVU’s mass notification system, called Mount Alert, will quickly notify students, faculty and staff of emergencies that could present a threat to personal safety. The system will also notify the MSVU community about unplanned campus closures, for example: due to severe weather. Students, faculty and staff are required to sign-up to receive these alerts and will be sent a link to log in to the system via e-mail to your @msvu.ca e-mail address.

Mass Notification FAQ