Wellness & Safety
Health and Safety Inspections
The Department of Residence Life performs residential inspections at mid-year, usually during the winter break. Residents are notified beforehand of the inspection process. The inspections are conducted to identify safety violations as well as conditions which may be detrimental to the health or well-being of the wider residential community.
The inspections include a visual examination of electrical cords, sprinkler heads, smoke detectors and other life-safety systems. In addition, each room is examined for the presence of prohibited items such as candles, halogen lamps, open coiled appliances, pets, etc. Rooms are also examined for evidence of prohibited activity such as smoking in the room, removal of door closers, unauthorized door locking or alarm mechanisms, removal of security screens or other equipment, tampering with life-safety equipment, etc. This inspection also includes a general assessment of cleanliness of the room, including food and waste storage.
Conditions requiring follow-up are reported to the Residence Life staff.
The resident’s signature on the Room and Board Contract is required in order for students to take occupancy. This signifies the student’s acceptance of and responsibility for abiding by residential and College policies as provided through all printed publications, web sites, email and other means. Per the agreement, College personnel may enter any room at any time for the purposes of inspection, establishment of order, maintenance, extermination, inventory correction, cleaning, or in case of emergency or other reasonable purposes.
Fire Policies for On-Campus Student Housing Facilities
Portable Electrical Appliances
Extreme caution must be exercised in the use of electrical appliances. We strongly recommend the use of surge protectors. All appliances must have the Underwriter’s Laboratory (UL) approval. Hot plates, sunlamps, space heaters, air conditioners, electric ovens, toasters, toaster ovens, microwaves and any other appliances with exposed heating elements are prohibited. Irons and ironing boards will be provided upon request. Routine health and safety inspections will occur at least once a semester. In several locations on campus there are microwaves provided by the college for student use.
Caution should be taken to prevent fire hazards resulting from excessive use of appliances and over-dependence on power strips and extension cords.
Lamps: A Special Safety Advisory
The use of halogen lamps is prohibited.
Carefully read all safety instructions and warnings that accompany any lamp.
Never use bulbs of a higher wattage or of a different style than is recommended by the manufacturer’s instruction.
Never remove or discard a bulb that is hot to the touch. Don't try to operate a lamp that has damaged or missing parts.
Do not place lamps near clothing, draperies, or bedding, as accidental contact with the lamp bulb could ignite the material. Keeps lamps away from windows, bunk beds, and closets.
NEVER place materials such as towels or clothing on top of lamps.
Avoid placing lamps in locations where they may be knocked over.
Always remember to turn off or unplug any lamp when changing bulbs or when leaving your room/apartment.
Taking proper precautions and guarding against potential hazards posed by lamps will help ensure community safety.