VP&S Bldg.: Electrical Shutdown, June 4, 2023

Due to emergency repairs, a temporary electrical shutdown affecting normal power in the Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons building will take place from 6 a.m. to approximately 5 p.m. on Sunday, June 4.

Emergency power outlets will not be affected and will continue to operate normally during the shutdown. This temporary electrical shutdown also will not affect fume hoods.

Please be advised, while this is not a building-wide shutdown, the following services will be affected in various parts of the building while work is being completed:

• Normal power outlets
• Overhead lighting
• Power to labs, refrigerators, and freezers on floors 7, 9, 10, 14, 15, 19 

In preparation for the upcoming shutdown, please take the following precautionary steps before you leave on Friday, June 2:

• Save all files and important documents.
• Completely turn off all computers and laptops.
• Turn off all other electronic devices and non-essential laboratory equipment.
• Ensure that all essential equipment is connected to emergency power (red) outlets.
• If you are unsure if your equipment is plugged into an emergency power outlet, please contact CUIMC Facilities Management at cumc.facilities@columbia.edu, and a representatives from Facilities Engineering will visit and assess your area.
• Tightly seal all containers in fume hoods or remove and safely store them elsewhere in the lab.
• Shut off all gas valves servicing the fume hoods.
• We highly recommend that all freezers, refrigerators, and environmental room doors be kept closed and access prohibited during this shutdown period. Typically, this equipment will maintain temperature as long as the doors are kept closed.

CUIMC Facilities Management representatives will be walking the floors to discuss the upcoming shutdowns with building occupants and address any questions or concerns. Furthermore, before the loss of power, an announcement will be made on the floors.

We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your cooperation as we work to improve our facilities. For issues in laboratories during the temporary shutdown, please call Public Safety at 305-8100 and a mechanic will be dispatched to address the issue. If you have questions or concerns, please contact Santia Valerio, project manager, at sv2552@cumc.columbia.edu.