With the Fall Term in full swing, Brock University’s Campus Security Services (CSS) and Health, Safety and Wellness (HSW) teams are reminding Brock students and employees of important safety information, including a new feature on campus computers.

Emergencies

In the event of an emergency, dial 911, call CSS at 905-688-5550 x3200 to speak with a 24-7 on-campus CSS dispatcher or use one of the more than 200 emergency phones located outside, as well as inside buildings, elevators and stairwells. Automated external defibrillators and first-aid stations are also located across campus.

A new feature on all Brock-managed desktop computers and laptops is a panic button. The icon resides in users’ system tray near the date and time. When triple clicked quickly and in succession, it will alert CSS of its activation. CSS will then attempt to follow up with the user via email or office phone.

CSS recommends faculty, staff and students download the Brock Safety mobile app, which offers useful safety-related links, alert notifications about significant incidents on campus, and quick, 24-7 access to on-campus and local mental health support resources.

Mandatory employee health and safety training

HSW is reminding all Brock employees of the requirement to complete one-time mandatory ‘Health and Safety Awareness Training’ and ‘Workplace Violence Training’ on the Sakai learning management system. Employees are required to complete the training once within the duration of their career at Brock. Employees who have not completed the training are urged to do so as soon as possible. Employee training completion records are sent to senior administrative council members twice per year for appropriate follow-up for those who have not yet completed the training. For more information, review the HSW SharePoint site or contact the HSW office at besafe@brocku.ca

Mask use requirements

Masks are required in all instructional spaces, including classrooms, lecture halls, seminars, teaching labs and other spaces when instruction is taking place. All masks worn must be medical grade. Fabric face coverings, such as buffs, gaiters and bandanas do not satisfy Brock’s masking requirement. Medical masks are also required in shared research spaces, as outlined in the relevant section of the Brock University Coronavirus FAQ. The University will provide medical masks, including KN95s, to all staff, faculty and librarians who want them. The use of masks is strongly recommended everywhere on campus, especially when maintaining distance from others is not possible. For more information, review the medical grade mask bulletin on the HSW SharePoint site.

Slips, trips and falls

Slips, trips and falls are the most-reported incidents at Brock University. HSW suggests being aware of circumstances, both indoor and outdoor, by scanning the path ahead and avoiding materials or walking surfaces that could contribute to a slip, trip or fall. Wearing appropriate footwear for the weather, not rushing and avoiding shortcuts will also help prevent slip, trip and fall incidents.

Mobile device distraction

Walking while using mobile devices is distracting and could lead to trips, falls and collisions. To avoid injuries and incidents, HSW recommends staying alert of surroundings by checking traffic when crossing roads and keeping headphone volume low to hear surroundings. Do not walk and talk or text at the same time. Instead, move out of the way of the stream of pedestrians and then make the call or text.

Reporting health and safety incidents

If an incident, injury, near miss or health and safety hazard is observed, report the circumstances to a person of authority such as an area supervisor, Brock employee or CSS. Circumstances should be reported through an injury/incident report. Completed reports and questions can be directed to the HSW office via besafe@brocku.ca

Drones

A drone is an aircraft without a human pilot on board. Recreational use of drones is prohibited on Brock University property.