Approach to Emergency Management

The University of Melbourne acknowledges its responsibility to provide both a work place that is safe and without risk to health and to provide its students, staff and visitors with a safe and healthy environment, across all its city and country campuses. As part of the process of meeting this obligation, the University is committed to emergency management planning and development.

Irrespective of the size, type or level of University operation that is affected by an emergency event or critical incident, the University's management arrangements will be identical in principle. This is called an "all hazards" approach. This approach recognises that it is impossible to predict accurately the course and impact of unexpected events. Therefore, management arrangements must be flexible while supporting sound and timely decision making.

Using this approach in the work place can assist to reduce liabilities.

Prevention

• What can be done to prevent emergencies?
• Use of building codes and regulations, legislation, education, incentives, land use and management, OH&S.

Preparedness

• Some emergencies are inevitable!
• What can be done to prepare for them?
• Develop emergency management plans, communications, mutual aid, warning systems, education and exercises.

Response

• What information is available to assist when responding to emergencies?
• Plans, legislation, warnings and notification, emergency operations centre (EOC), medical assistance, immediate relief.

Recovery

• What can be learned from emergencies to reduce their effects next time?
• Restore services, counseling, finance, reconstruction, information.