Emergencies involving injuries | UCT emergency response team

Emergencies can create a variety of hazards for staff in the impacted area. Preparing before an emergency is vital in ensuring that the University of Cape Town (UCT) staff and students have the necessary training and equipment, know where to go and know how to keep themselves safe in case of an emergency. 

UCT Emergency Preparedness and Response Procedures provide information on how to prepare and train for emergencies and the hazards to be aware of when an emergency occurs. 

What is a workplace emergency?

A workplace emergency is a situation that threatens staff, students, customers, or the public; disrupts or shuts down operations; or may cause physical, equipment or environmental damage. 

Emergencies may be accidental, natural or human-caused. They may include earthquakes, floods, wildfires, weather, chemical spills or releases, disease outbreaks, releases of biological agents and explosions involving nuclear or radiological sources. 

Many types of emergencies can be anticipated in the planning process, which can help the University, staff and students plan for other unpredictable situations.

Emergencies involving injuries

First aid emergencies

If it is a First Aid case, proceed as follows:

  • Get assistance from the nearest first aider
  • Report the incident to the line manager immediately or as soon as possible and to the OHSE representative.
  • Once first aid is rendered, record the incident on the incident report form. Either the OHSE representative or the line manager will submit the form to the OHSE division.
  • Make sure that all details are captured regarding the events leading up to the incident and the incident itself.
  • Cooperate with the investigator investigating the incident.

Snake-related emergency

Sightings of snakes, including puff adders, are often reported on the University of Cape Town campus. To ensure your safety, please follow these guidelines if you encounter a snake:

  1. Stay calm and keep your distance: do not approach or attempt to handle the snake. Most snakes will move away if not threatened.

  2. Do not disturb the snake: Avoid sudden movements and give the snake space to retreat.
  3. Alert others: Warn those nearby of the snake's presence without causing panic.
  4. Report the sighting immediately Contact Campus Protection Services (CPS) on their 24-hour toll-free number 080 650 2222 or notify UCT Grounds & Gardens Management. Provide the exact location and description of the snake if possible.
  5. In case of a bite: Stay calm, limit movement, and call for immediate medical assistance by contacting CPS on their 24-hour toll-free number 080 650 2222.

Grounds & Gardens contacts: 
Mrs Dee Hearne: 021 650 4447 | 
Mr Reggie Mayman: 082 494 8254 
| Ms Noelene Le Cordier: 082 496 8843

Not all snakes are venomous. Consult this guide for further information about snakes likely to be found at UCT. 

Major emergency

If it is a major incident requiring medical assistance, proceed as follows:

  • Get assistance from the nearest first aider.
  • The first responder or first aider will contact Campus Protection Services (CPS) to summon the UCT Medical Emergency Response Team immediately.
  • Report the incident to the line manager immediately or as soon as is possible and to the OHSE representative.
  • The OHSE representative or line manager to inform the OHSE office of the incident. In the case of students, the OHSE representative or the faculty should inform UCT's Student Wellness Services.
  • Ensure that all details are captured regarding events leading up to the incident, the incident itself and actions and events following thereafter.
  • Cooperate with the investigator examining the incident.

UCT emergency response team

The University of Cape Town has a 24/7 onsite emergency response team for staff and students.

Contact Campus Protection Services (CPS) at 080 650 2222
This is the CPS 24-hour toll-free number, students and staff can contact this number even if they have no airtime on their phones.

In a medical emergency, CPS will provide qualified personnel to transport the affected person to the hospital if required. 

For private medical emergencies, CPS will contact an external service provider to transport the affected person to the hospital. The cost for this transport will be for that person’s medical aid or personal account.