Lockout (Shelter in Place)
A lockout is used to safeguard students, staff and other occupants when there is a threat outside of the building, but no threat inside. It could also be used when an incident is happening off school property.
A lockout might be used to stop an unauthorised person (e.g. a disgruntled parent) from entering a building, if a vicious dog is on campus or if a nearby public protest has the potential to turn violent. A lockout allows regular school activities to continue with the least disruption as possible during the event.
Raising the alarm
Staff who identify a potential emergency situation requiring lockout must notify a member of the Executive team by dialling ext. 800 or contacting any sub school reception.
In the event of a lockout
- Move to the nearest classroom (or other lockable indoor area) and lock the door and windows. Available wardens and staff should check their immediate vicinity and assist other staff.
- External building doors must be locked when all individuals in the local vicinity are This should be completed by a nominated warden or staff member who is not responsible for student care at the time.
- Staff should be prepared to lock interior doors if the situation escalates.
- If in class, occupants will stay in the current classroom.
- If out of class or outdoors (such as during class transition, recess or lunch), staff/students/contractors and visitors will move to the closest, securable room, ensuring they proceed to these areas in an orderly and calm manner.
- Where possible, a record should be made of all people in the classroom.
- Reassure students and remain calm.
- No person is to use a mobile phone.
- Occupants must remain where they are and not move around or leave the building. Any person who refuses to cooperate should be encouraged to but not forced to comply. The Chief Warden should be notified as soon as it is safe to do so.
- The Headmaster and Executive should develop a plan for students to leave at the end of the day if the incident is still continuing.
All clear
All persons should keep a low profile, stay out of sight and away from windows until the “All Clear” is given. Students and staff should stay where they are until official notification is provided by the Chief Warden or an identified police officer that the lockout is over.
Warden procedures
Chief Warden
- Notify the Police by dialling 000 and request assistance.
- Activate the Lockout alarm.
- Assign Wardens to immediately lock all gates and entrances to the buildings / facility (if safe to do so).
- Notify Management if they are not already aware of the situation.
- Keep occupants in the area away from windows.
- Liaise with Police and Emergency Services as appropriate.
- When the situation is over, initiate the “All Clear” alarm.
- Liaise with Headmaster and Heads of School to notify parents as required and in conjunction with the Police.
Area Wardens and Wardens
Area Wardens and Wardens will assist other staff with the lockout process where possible. However, note that movement is only possible within a building as all external doors must remain locked.