Preparedness: In an office

These guidliness come from the UC Berkeley Office of Emergency Preparedness.

See what happens to a typical office during an earthquake. More video and info on this CUREE-Caltech Woodframe shake-table test.

Before it Happens

• Brace or rearrange your office furniture to minimize falling hazards. Bolt book cases and filing cabinets to the wall. Do not put heavy items or full boxes on tall furniture.
• If bracing is not feasible, move tall furniture away from exits.
• Do not use tall bookcases or cabinets as room dividers.
• Do not stack bookcases or file cabinets.
• Keep books on shelves with restraint bars or cords.
• Securely anchor your computer, VDT, and printer to the desk or workstation.
• Back up your computer(s) frequently. Keep the disks at a separate location.
• Familiarize yourself with your building's emergency procedures, and ask your Building Coordinator for help in making preparations.
• Keep an emergency kit in the trunk of your car.
• Share this information with others.

During and After an Earthquake

• When a quake starts, take cover under a desk or table, and hold on.
• If you are in a hallway, drop to the floor and cover your head and neck.
• Stay covered until the shaking has clearly stopped.
• Evacuate everyone to your building's Emergency Assembly Area (EAA), identified on the emergency signage in the building.
• Never use elevators.
• Wait at the EAA for help and instructions. Report any trapped people or hazardous situations.
• Listen to radio for announcements (KALX 90.7 FM in Bay Area).