February 24, 2010

Workplace Emergencies for Nonsubscribers: Have a Plan

By definition, emergencies are unexpected and unpleasant; not in the plan.

But the fallout from emergencies can be minimized by preparing for the types of situations that reasonably may be anticipated. If you don't have an emergency plan, here are some ideas to help you get started.

First, consider what types of emergency situations may be likely, based on factors such as geography, work environment, products or services offered, and so on. Look at the obvious things first, such as these:

• Fires;
• Environmental threats (tornados, hurricanes, floods);
• Personnel threats (employees of companies not considered environmentally friendly may be targeted by activists, for example); and
• Possible workplace accidents with catastrophic or fatal results, especially if heavy
  machinery or toxic chemicals are involved.

Once you have assessed the situation, these factors must be considered for your plan:

• Person(s) designated to respond. The appropriate number depends on the size of the work force, but usually you should designate two primary persons and at least one backup person for each.
• Actions responders must take. These will vary depending on the type of emergency. In some cases calling the 411 emergency number may be the primary action. Sounding the fire alarm or having the public address system alert all employees also may be part of these responsibilities.
• Accessing a fire extinguisher may be an appropriate action, but the responder must know proper extinguisher procedures, and any fire must be small enough to be controlled with an extinguisher.
• Responsible persons should direct all employees to a predetermined place of safety.

Regardless of what the plan of action is, it must be determined in advance to the greatest extent possible and communicated to all employees before an emergency occurs.

FACT: Properly developed and executed emergency plans greatly reduce the probability of injury and property damage. A good place to start is with a Safety Program Review and Evaluation by our staff of professionally accredited engineers.

Any time you have an occupational safety question, please call Bill Propes at 214-295-1563 or email him at bpropes@combinedgroup.com for more information.