It is important for every business, regardless of size, to have an emergency action
plan because you never know when something will happen that requires a
response. In the event of an emergency, having a plan in place will provide guidance for effective response, reduce stress, and help mitigate the possibility of injury or illness. It is also an important element of OSHA compliance.
Effective emergency plans designate responsible individuals, establish guidelines on reporting incidents and notifying first responders, providing first aid, identify building evacuation routes and assembly areas, and establish a communication plan to account for employees and visitors. Some events that may require a response are as follows:
– Fire
– Medical emergency
– Severe weather or natural disasters
– Public unrest or terrorist attack
– Chemical exposure or gas leak
– Risk of personal violence
– Extended power loss
Emergency action plans should be continually updated and reviewed with all employees upon hire, annually, or if conditions change. Drills should also be conducted so personnel will recognize the emergency notification tones and to ensure proper procedures are followed.
Emergency action planning is one of the topics covered in the Principles of Occupational Safety and Health (POSH) course. If you would like more information regarding emergency planning, POSH, or other safety training, please contact us for details.
Ed Taube, Safety Trainer, Arizona Chapter National Safety Council