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No one expects or wants a workplace emergency to occur, but unfortunately, it does happen. Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA), who’s main mission is to improve worker safety and health, has some general guidelines to prepare for an emergency.
Ways to Prepare
- Planning – Employers should review plans with employees when initially putting a safety program in place and re-evaluate them periodically whenever the plan itself, or employee responsibilities, change. For example:
- Escape routes and designated safe places
- Designated parties that are willing to perform rescue or medical duties
- Means for reporting an emergency, like a cellular phone
- Systems to account for all employees
- Chain of Command – Employers should designate an emergency response coordinator and a backup coordinator. These designated employees are responsible for both internal and external communication, along with having visibility on potential threats that may occur in the future.
- Emergency Response Teams – Employees need to know about toxic hazards in the workplace and be able to judge when to evacuate personnel or when to rely on outside help. One or more teams must be trained in:
- Use of various types of fire extinguishers
- First aid, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA)
- Requirements of the OSHA bloodborne pathogens standard
- Shutdown procedures
- Chemical spill control procedures
- Search and emergency rescue procedures
- Hazardous materials emergency response
- Response Activities – Employers should provide emergency alarms and ensure that employees know how to report emergencies. An updated list of key personnel and off-duty telephone numbers should be maintained and accessible.
- Training – Training for employees should occur at least one time a year and when new materials, equipment, or processes are introduced.
- Medical Assistance – First Aid supplies should be readily available for trained first aid providers. Additionally, medical emergency phone numbers should be placed in conspicuous places near or on telephones.
For a more in-depth guide, visit OSHA’S website and download a copy to be even more prepared for a workplace emergency.
