In violation of several policies, Fire Protection Services
was working on the fire panel without notifying anyone in the BNC. They
did, however, notify Purdue Fire and Purdue Police that maintenance was
underway and not to respond to an alarm. They did inadvertently set off
the toxic gas alarm, initiating an evacuation. Then, again in violation
of BNC policies, Fire Protection Services announced an “all clear.”
This second announcement should not have been made, it was made such that few
people heard and understood it, and it was not repeated. Consequently, a
great deal of confusion ensued.
At no time was there a dangerous situation in the facility. It
was a false alarm.
Work is underway to prevent a recurrence of this unfortunate
incident.
It is VERY IMPORTANT that everyone respond to any alarm in
the building as if it was an actual incident. You must evacuate
immediately. In event of a false alarm, we will get you back in the
facility as rapidly as possible.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation,
John Weaver
John R. Weaver
Facility Manager
(765) 494-5494
jrweaver@purdue.edu