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STFC SHE emergencies

STFC is committed to preventing workplace incidents and illness. When emergencies do occur, a prompt and effective response is essential to reduce risk. Our authorised First Aiders and emergency procedures support staff, tenants, and visitors across all STFC sites.

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Emergency Matrix

FireMedical EmergencyMinor InjuryIncident / Near Miss
Daresbury Laboratory01925 603333999 and 01925 60333301925 603333Evotix Assure
Rutherford Appleton Laboratory01235 778888999 and 01235 77888801235 445545Evotix Assure
Swindon01793 444510999 and 01793 44451001793 444510Evotix Assure
Royal Observatory Edinburgh999500 or 222500 or 222Evotix Assure

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Fire safety

Knowing how to respond in a fire is critical. Follow the site-specific guidance below:

Daresbury Laboratory

  • Raise the alarm via a break-glass fire button
  • Call 3333 (mobile 01925 603333) and state the location
  • Leave the building immediately; proceed to the nearest muster point
  • Do not re-enter until authorised by Emergency Team

Rutherford Appleton Laboratory (RAL)

  • Break the glass alarm and shout “FIRE”
  • Dial 2222 or 01235 778888 from a mobile
  • Evacuate via nearest exit; gather at fire assembly points

Swindon / Polaris House

  • Activate nearest break-glass alarm
  • Warn colleagues and call 2222 (01793 444510)
  • Leave via nearest exit; assemble in East car park

Royal Observatory Edinburgh

  • Sound nearest break-glass alarm
  • Call 999
  • Evacuate to the central lawn assembly point; close doors to contain fire

Medical emergencies

In a medical emergency, quick and clear communication helps First Aiders and emergency services respond effectively. Follow the procedures for your STFC site:

Daresbury Laboratory

  • Call 3333 (or 01925 603333 from a mobile) and state the location and nature of the medical emergency
  • Security will alert trained First Aiders and guide emergency services to the scene
  • Provide immediate assistance if you are trained, including first aid or CPR, and use an AED if required and available
  • For minor injuries, contact a local First Aider or call the emergency number for assistance

Rutherford Appleton Laboratory (RAL)

  • Dial 2222 (or 01235 778888 from a mobile)
  • State the location and type of incident so Security can dispatch First Aiders
  • Provide first aid or CPR if trained, and use an AED if necessary
  • For minor injuries, seek help from a local First Aider or call the site emergency number

Swindon / Polaris House

  • Call 2222 (or 01793 444510 from a mobile)
  • Security will send a First Aider to your location and coordinate further assistance
  • Offer first aid or CPR if you are trained
  • For less serious injuries, request support from your nearest First Aider

Royal Observatory Edinburgh

  • Call 999 in the event of a medical emergency
  • Inform Security/Reception as soon as possible so they can assist emergency services on arrival
  • Provide immediate first aid if trained until professional help arrives

Mental health emergencies (all sites)

  • Contact a Mental Health First Aider (MHFA) where available
  • Support is confidential and accessible to staff, tenants, visitors, and users
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Reporting an incident

All Safety, Health, and Environmental incidents, including fires, medical events, and near misses, must be reported using the Evotix Assure portal. Record the date, time, location, those involved, and a brief description. Leave equipment or machinery untouched unless doing so would create further hazards.

Report an incident

Staff lone working guidance

Working alone carries additional risk. Discuss any lone working with your Line Manager or Supervisor, agree on a safe system of work, and record foreseeable hazards with appropriate controls.

Forbidden solo activities include:

  • Entry into confined spaces
  • Working on unsecured ladders
  • Handling hazardous substances
  • Operating high-risk machinery without supervision

Certain sites provide a Lone Worker System to alert emergency services if an incident occurs. Always follow local procedures and risk assessments.

Need assistance?

Contact the STFC SHE team for guidance on first aid, fire safety, medical emergencies, or lone working procedures.

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