Power down during campuswide electric outage planned test

Be sure to power down during the planned power outage test. Photo of King Library by Ricardo Trevino

Testing of the Oxford campus electric system will take place between 8 p.m. Thursday, May 19, and 2 a.m. Friday, May 20, causing multiple power outages.

Miami continues to test the readiness and verify the operation of the Oxford campus electric system. In the event of an extended power outage, these complex systems are designed to help restore power to much of the campus using our on-site generators.

All buildings on campus will experience electrical outages except for the following buildings: Lewis Place, Old Manse, Simpson-Shade, Lottie Moon and the Equestrian Center. Off-campus buildings will not be affected.

Power will be lost and restored a number of times during the testing window but out no longer than two hours at one time. This will cause loss of lighting, elevator use, heating, cooling, refrigeration equipment, and some phone and network service, as well as other electrically powered items.

An outage longer than one hour could create issues with door entry card access, so please plan accordingly. The fire protection systems will remain functional throughout the test, however, the building's alarm system will NOT be able to automatically dial 911. If there is a fire alarm event, please exit the building and call 911 to report that you have safely exited.

It is highly recommended that individuals not be on campus during this test unless absolutely necessary.

All electrical equipment should be turned off prior to and during the test.

This includes all computers, printers, fax machines and other electronic devices.

No critical processes or events should be scheduled during this time frame.

Emergency generators within several buildings will be operating, but they only provide power for life safety systems. Because Marcum Conference Center, Collins and McFarland will have significant occupancy, temporary total building generators will be installed to provide power throughout the testing event.

If there is severe weather or equipment malfunction on Thursday, May 19, the test may be postponed until Friday, May 20, at the same time. If this is needed, a notice will be sent out. If you have questions or need additional information, please contact Scott Lessing at 529-8036 or lessinsw@miamioh.edu.