Norfolk Naval Shipyard Shields Workforce with Evacuation Signage and Black Flags

PORTSMOUTH, Virginia — New signage and black flags have been introduced at Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) to enhance safety measures for personnel and property.

“The new parking lot signage identifies evacuation zones in the event a hazard is present where all personnel need to be removed from the immediate area, such as from airborne hazards or contaminants,” explained Installation Emergency Management Officer Nicole Roten. This is part of a plan to manage the orderly release of personnel, aiming to reduce traffic congestion in Portsmouth and Chesapeake.

Personnel are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the evacuation zones and review the Installation Emergency Management Plan, NAVSHIPYDNOR M-3440.1, Chapter 2, Emergency Support Function 16, Release of Personnel/Evacuation, available on the sharepoint website. For further inquiries, contact Nicole Roten at (757) 396-9491 or via email at alexis.n.roten.civ@us.navy.mil.

Heat stress is another critical concern at NNSY. With summer bringing intense heat, the workforce remains at risk for heat exhaustion or stroke. Notifications for “black flag” status, indicating extreme heat conditions, are sent via AtHoc alerts, Giant Voice, and posted flags at key locations such as Building 1500, industrial area Gate November, and the NNSY Callaghan Center Gymnasium.

“The purpose of the black flags is to notify personnel when a black flag heat stress condition exists,” said Roten. “This means the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) has reached or exceeded 90 degrees Fahrenheit. During such conditions, all non-essential outdoor physical activities, excluding operational commitments, will be suspended.”

Everyone is advised to monitor weather conditions, stay hydrated, and dress appropriately for the heat. Should anyone require emergency assistance on the shipyard, they should call (757) 396-3333.