This page provides comprehensive guidance on these systems,
Mass Alert system
Provided by CriticalArc, the University’s mass alert system is used to distribute urgent safety-related information at universities across the UK and around the world and is fully GDPR-compliant. It offers 24-hour services to help keep staff and students safe.
The system is managed by Security Services. It is essential for keeping staff and students safe in the event of a threat to life incident and a key part of the University’s response to new Government legislation, known as Martyn’s Law.
It will be used to notify users of serious incidents occurring in Oxford that may present a threat to life or risk personal injury.
Alerts are sent to staff and students' emails and mobile devices in the event of a major incident in the city. The contact information is sourced from University systems – the Core User Directory (CUD) for emails, SITS and eVision for student mobile phone numbers, and PeopleXD for staff mobile phone numbers.
The decision to use CriticalArc was made following consultation with the University’s Information Security, Data Compliance and Legal Services teams, as well as the Conference of Colleges. The solution complies with all data protection laws, ensuring your information is handled responsibly. For more information, consult the privacy policy.
All staff and students have been added to the system automatically using existing sources of data.
The procedure for reporting emergency incidents is unchanged. Please refer to “Emergencies – should you call the police or Security Services?”
SafeZone App
The SafeZone app is currently being piloted across several colleges and departments.
The app allows staff and students to request wellbeing, safety, and first aid support via a simple interface. This is in addition to the mass alert system referenced above.
When users request assistance, the alert is sent to either their college lodge (within participating colleges) using geo-fence technology, or directly to Security Services.
Location details are only shared while the request is open and stop once the response is complete. The app is not a replacement for emergency services and users are prompted to call 999 if they in danger.
Your college or department will inform you if they are taking part in the pilot. You should not download the app if your part of Oxford is not part of the pilot.
If your college or department is interested in joining the app pilot, please contact Security Services.
