Emergency Codes | William Osler Health System

Osler prepares for a variety of emergencies, each identified by a specific colour code. These codes notify patients, visitors, staff, physicians, learners and volunteers of emergency situations requiring immediate action.

In any emergency, your primary responsibility is to stay calm, follow staff instructions and stay away from the affected area when possible. These codes ensure that all necessary individuals are informed of events that require immediate action, helping everyone react swiftly and safely.

Public safety and security codes

Code Yellow – missing patient (18 years of age and older)

Response guidelines:

Reman calm, listen for overhead announcements and avoid actively participating in the search.
Notify an Osler staff member immediately if you see someone who appears lost or matches the description.
Wait for and follow instructions given by Osler staff.

Code Amber – missing infant/child (under 18 years of age)

Response guidelines:

Reman calm, listen for overhead announcements and avoid actively participating in the search.
Notify Osler staff immediately if you see someone matching the description of the missing infant, child or potential abductor.
Wait for and follow Instructions given by Osler staff.

Code White – violent/behavioural situation

Response guidelines:

Remain calm and keep a safe distance from the situation—do not try to help.
Notify Osler staff immediately if you witness violence or unsafe behaviour, if safe to do so.
Wait for and follow all instructions given by Osler staff.

Code Purple – hostage taking situation

Response guidelines:

Remain calm, listen for overhead announcements from Osler staff.
Stay away from area where the incident is occurring to ensure your safety and prevent further risk.
If you're in the area, move away if it's safe to do so. If not, hide in place immediately.
Wait for and follow all instructions given by Osler staff and/or police.

Code Black – bomb threat

Response guidelines:

Remain calm and listen for overhead announcements from Osler staff.
Do not touch suspicious items and immediately inform an Osler staff member.
Stay away from affected area if possible.
Stay with your family or support system if in the affected area.
Wait for and follow all instructions given by Osler staff and/or police.

Code Hold and Secure

Response guidelines:

Remain calm, wait for and follow all instructions from Osler staff.
Stay away from affected area if possible.
Secure yourself and stay in place if in affected area.

Code Silver – active attacker

Response guidelines:

Remain calm and assess your surroundings.
Leave the area immediately if safe to do so and encourage others to follow.
If unable to leave, secure yourself in a safe—lock doors and turn off lights.
Be prepared to protect yourself using any available means only as a last resort.
Call 911 if safe to do so, providing clear details about the situation.
Stay in place until police provide the "all clear" and follow instructions given by Osler staff.

Clinical emergency codes

Code Blue – adult (age 18 or older) cardiac arrest/medical emergency

Response guidelines:

Remain calm, listen for overhead announcements and follow instructions from Osler staff.
Stay away from affected area if possible.
Stay with your family or support system if in the affected area.

Code Blue Maternal – pregnant patients cardiac arrest/medical emergency

Response guidelines:

Remain calm, listen for overhead announcements and follow instructions from Osler staff.
Stay away from affected area if possible.
Stay with your family or support system if in the affected area.

Code Pink – neonatal and paediatric (age 0-18) cardiac arrest/medical emergency

Response guidelines:

Remain calm, listen for overhead announcements and follow instructions from Osler staff.
Stay away from affected area if possible.
Stay with your family or support system if in the affected area.

Code OB Delivery – urgent obstetrical emergencies requiring immediate care

Response guidelines:

Remain calm, listen for overhead announcements and follow instructions from Osler staff.
Stay away from affected area if possible.
Stay with your family or support system if in the affected area.

Code Stroke

Response guidelines:

Remain calm, listen for overhead announcements and follow instructions from Osler staff.
Stay away from affected area if possible.
Stay with your family or support system if in the affected area.

Medical emergencies on Osler hospital grounds

Response guidelines:

Call 911 and notify Osler staff of the emergency.
Stay with the person experiencing the medical emergency if safe to do so.
Provide details to Osler staff and direct them to the location.
Wait for and follow instructions given by Osler staff or emergency responders.

Infrastructure and facilities emergency codes

Code Red – fire alarm or fire condition

Response guidelines:

If you hear an announcement:
- Remain calm, wait for and follow all instructions from Osler staff.
- Stay away from affected area if possible.
- Stay with your family or support system if in the affected area.
If you discover a fire:
- Remove yourself and others from immediate danger, if possible.
- Activate the fire alarm using the nearest pull station and notify staff.
- Wait for and follow all instructions provided by Osler staff.
- Do not use elevators—use stairs if needed.

Code Green – evacuation (horizontal, vertical or total)

Response guidelines:

Remain calm, listen for overhead announcements and follow instructions from Osler staff.
Inform staff if you need assistance evacuating.
Stay away from affected area if possible.
Stay with your family or support system if in affected area.
Do not use elevators unless instructed.

Code Brown – chemical spill/leak/catastrophic flood

Response guidelines:

Remain calm, listen for overhead announcements and follow instructions from Osler staff.
Inform staff if you need assistance evacuating.
Stay clear of the affected area.

Emergency management and business continuity

Code Orange – mass casualty incident

Response guidelines:

Remain calm, wait for and follow all instructions from Osler staff.
Stay away from affected area if possible.
Stay with your family or support system if in the affected area.

Code Grey – loss of critical function/services

Response guidelines:

Remain calm, wait for and follow all instructions from Osler staff.
Stay away from affected area if possible.
Stay with your family or support system if in the affected area.
Inform staff if you need help or have concerns related to the ongoing issue.

Personal preparedness

Preparedness is essential for ensuring your safety and the well-being of your loved ones during emergencies. Local and provincial resources provide practical guidance on creating emergency plans, assembling supplies and staying informed.

Visit the following emergency management websites for valuable tips and guidance on personal preparedness, including emergency kits, hazard planning and community support resources: