Unattended suspicious item

Keep Calm, Keep Safe, Take Action

If you discover an unattended, suspicious object/bag that you suspect is potentially harmful, do not touch or approach it.

  • Note the location of the item, its description or any markings on it etc…
  • Evacuate the immediate area and prevent access to it
  • Do not activate the fire alarm
  • Apply the 'HOT test' to help to decide quickly whether an unattended item is typical of lost property or whether it is suspicious
Hot Test
If the item does not pass the HOT test If the item passes the HOT test

From a safe distance call:

  • The Police (111). Do not use a mobile phone or allow anyone to use one in the vicinity of the object
  • Then call Security: Use the UOA Alert app or call 0800 373 7550
  • The senior person on duty and inform them of the situation
  • Follow the advice of Police / Security

From a safe distance call:

  • Security: Use the UOA Alert app or call 0800 373 7550.  Do not use a mobile phone or allow anyone to use one in the vicinity of the object
  • The senior person on duty and inform them of the situation
  • Follow the advice of Security

Document Control
Version: 2.1
Last Updated: Jun 2026
Next Review: Jun 2029
Owner: hsw@auckland.ac.nz
Approver: Associate Director, Health Safety & Wellbeing

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