Professionally, effectively and caringly—this is how the men and women of the UAB Police Department seek to serve the UAB community. Our philosophy of community policing integrates crime prevention, problem resolution and community involvement in an unprecedented manner, allowing us to provide the support and service deserved by UAB guests, students and employees. 

UAB Building Security Update

UAB implemented a building safety plan that will promote greater control over access to campus facilities and employ additional technologies to enhance security for faculty, staff and students. The rollout is being completed in three phases and is expected to conclude by the 2019 fall semester. The WBHM building implemented new lockdown procedures in January 2019. UAB Physical Security is currently working on buildings in Phase II, to be completed by the end of March 2019. A series of frequently asked questions can be found under the table below that provides details by building. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the new building lockdown restrictions?

A: With the new security procedures, most buildings will be open to anyone with a legitimate purpose 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday and accessible by UAB OneCard after work hours and during weekends. Some buildings will require key card access at all times; for example, a 24/7 lockdown was effective Sept. 1 for Shelby Research Building.

Q: If I have a OneCard, can I access any building at any time?

A: No. Access will be granted in accordance with work and class schedules and the business done in each building. Some buildings will allow entry to anyone with a OneCard, while others will restrict access to those who require access to the building as a student or employee. Some OneCard holders will have access to certain buildings only during operating hours. Others may have access to buildings 24/7, depending on the business need.

Q: Do I have to do anything to have my OneCard activated/programmed for access to buildings?

A: Generally speaking, no action should be necessary on the part of a card holder to have their OneCard programmed for access to appropriate buildings; OneCards will be programmed with access relative to an individual’s class and/or work schedules and needs. Students, faculty and staff should need to request approval for access only if their OneCard does not work where they believe it should.

Q: Will each building have the same restrictions?

A: No. Security measures will vary by the primary use for each building, though some will be shared by most: Main entrances will have key card access, and cameras will be installed; exit doors will allow egress but be suited with alarms and cameras that trigger if propped open; security cameras and a hard-wired lockdown button will be installed in every classroom for new construction and renovations; older classrooms will be phased in over time.

Q: How will I get into libraries once new building restrictions are in place?

A: Students and faculty/staff do not need to request permission to access the libraries; once lockdown procedures are implemented, those with valid OneCards will be able to access those buildings during operating hours.

Q: What if I forget or lose my OneCard? Can I access buildings?

A: Those whose OneCard is lost or damaged should get a replacement. Complete and submit the form online at uab.edu/onecard. Direct questions to onecard@uab.edu. There is a $15 replacement fee for lost or damaged OneCards.

Q: Does this mean I have to wear my OneCard at all times?

A: Yes. For safety and security reasons, students and employees are asked to wear their OneCard in a visible place at all times when on campus.

Q: Where can I find updates about when different buildings will come online?

A: When a new building comes online, updates about that building will be communicated to building occupants by each building’s administrator, and signage will be posted. General updates will appear in the eReporter and Greenmail e-newsletters. You can also bookmark this page, which will be updated as new buildings come on line.

Q: Why are some buildings not implementing new lockdown procedures yet?

A: UAB has many buildings across our 100-plus city block footprint, and each building’s technology needs to be updated and/or programmed individually. Physical Security has developed a phased plan to get all buildings online with this enhanced safety measure as soon as possible.

Q: How long will it take for all buildings to implement a lockdown procedure?

A: All buildings are anticipated to be active by the 2019 fall semester.

Q: Why can’t all buildings be “activated” at the same time to avoid confusion?

A: Each building’s technology needs to be updated and/or programmed individually. We want to enhance the safety for each building as soon as possible, so the implementation is not being delayed.

Q: What do I do if I need more information about the particular hours and procedures related to my building(s)’ lockdown schedule?

A: If the information you need is not on the table above or answered here, please contact your building administrator. Restrictions will be communicated to each building’s residents by a building administrator, and signs will be posted on each building that specify open and restricted access times as these changes become effective.

Q: I swiped my OneCard in a building I believe I should have access to, and it didn’t work. What can I do?

A: Start by reaching out to your building administrator. If you do not know your building administrator, call Physical Security at 934-3708.

Q: Does this mean I cannot hold the door open for someone?

A: For safety reasons, we ask that faculty, staff and students do not allow entrance into a building for someone they do not know should be there.

Q: If my building is locked down during a time when I am expecting visitors, how will my guests access the building?

A: You or someone from your unit will need to welcome legitimate guests at the door to let them in. Vendors who need regular access may be granted the ability to access the building. Contact your building administrator to request regular access for an approved vendor.

Q: These new procedures are really inconvenient. Can restrictions be reduced?

A: The safety and security of our campus community is our highest priority. These updates are consistent with best practices and are recommended by UAB Police and Safety professionals. Questions or concerns should be directed to the director of Physical Security. Call Physical Security at 934-3708.

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