Support for users with disabilities

We recommend that all users familiarise themselves with the locations of the various fire exits. Copies of Floor plans can be viewed on the website and are available throughout the building. If you have any concerns about what to do in an emergency we recommend that you email firesafety@reading.ac.uk to discuss preparing a Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan.

What happens in an emergency?

In the event of a fire, the fire alarm will sound throughout the building, accompanied by lights flashing on the alarm sensors and an announcement that users should leave the building by the nearest fire exit. Members of Library staff will also sweep the floors alerting users to the need to leave and directing them to the nearest fire exits.

Do not try to use the lifts when the fire alarm rings. In the event of a fire alarm the lifts will go to the Ground Floor and the doors will remain open until the emergency is over. This is to prevent people getting stuck in the lifts during a fire. The lifts will remain out of service until the emergency is over

Safe refuge points

If you are unable to leave the building without assistance, make your way to one of the fire protected Refuge Points. These can be identified by the green fire exit sign showing a wheelchair. The Refuge Points are designed to provide protection from fire and smoke for 30 minutes and are clearly marked on the floorplans.

Use the intercom to speak to University security so that they are aware of your presence. They will alert the fire brigade, who will arrive within minutes.

The evacuation procedures remain the same throughout Library opening hours. Please note that after 17:00 and at weekends only the Ground Floor is permanently staffed.