Non-classroom Safety Protocols for Faculty/Staff
If a student is exhibiting inappropriate behavior in a non-classroom setting, faculty/staff should follow the recommended procedures listed below. It is suggested that each department develop a Departmental Safety Plan to supplement current college-wide crisis or emergency plans.
Disruptive Behavior-You are not feeling unsafe or threatened
1. Individual Response: do what you can to get the person to stop the behavior.
- Request that the student stop the behavior - use a calm, respectful, and firm voice.
- Tell the student the behavior is not acceptable and that they will have to leave if the behavior does not stop.
2. Get assistance from others within your department and elsewhere in the building.
- Have a colleague stand near you and/or assist you in dealing with the student
- Send someone to find a supervisor, or other appropriate administrator for assistance.
If your efforts are unsuccessful, follow protocol below:
Aggressive or Intimidating Behavior
- See above. Tell the student that verbally abusive (etc.) behavior is not acceptable and it must stop immediately. Ask the student to move back if they are getting too close.
- Ask the student to leave your office/workspace.
- If the above actions are not successful, and the student does not leave:
Use your phone to call Security or ask another person to do so.
Contact Security immediately - Lowell: 978-656-3201 or Bedford: 781-589-0234.
Direct Threat to Physical Safety
Immediately call 911, retreat to a safe space, and contact Security - Lowell: 978-656-3201 or Bedford: 781-589-0234.
After the Incident
Document the incident. Immediately notify the Dean of Students and the appropriate division dean or supervisor. The student must meet with the Dean of Students for disciplinary action.
Personal Safety
Secure your personal belongings in safe places. If you are alone in a building, especially at night, please inform Security. If you are worried about your safety ask Security to walk you to your car. Develop a "personal safety plan", including having emergency numbers on speed dial in your cell phone.