The Iowa State University Comprehensive Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) establishes a standardized, scalable framework for managing all-hazard emergencies. This plan ensures the university can effectively protect life safety, stabilize incidents, and restore the core academic mission following a disruption.

Strategic Framework

Adhering to the National Incident Management System (NIMS), the university manages emergencies through four distinct but integrated pillars:

  1. Operational Activities - On-scene responders, led by the ISU Police Department or specialized units, focus on immediate life safety and hazard stabilization. 
  2. Incident Support - The Emergency Operations Center (EOC) coordinates resources, manages complex data, and supports the on-scene Incident Commander.
  3. Policy Guidance - The President and executive team provide high-level authority, determine the "end state" for recovery, and manage the long-term institutional impact.
  4. Public Information - Centralized, unified messaging ensures the campus community and stakeholders receive timely and accurate safety information.

Key Authorities - Campus State of Emergency

The President or designee has the authority to declare a campus state of emergency, suspending standard administrative procedures and reassigning personnel to meet incident needs.

Emergency Operations Center Activation

Specific senior leaders are empowered to activate the EOC proactively for anticipated hazards or reactively for sudden-onset disasters.

Maintenance and Readiness

This Emergency Operations Plan is a dynamic framework maintained by EH&S Emergency Management. To move the plan from paper to practice, EH&S coordinates a Multi-Year Training and Exercise Plan. This structured cycle of drills and simulations validates the university's capabilities and ensures all units are prepared to execute their assigned roles under stress.

To ensure all campus-wide alignment, all university departments are responsible for developing and maintaining Unit-Specific Annexes that integrate with this overarching framework.

Iowa State University's Comprehensive Emergency Operations Plan