“Plan of Action: Prepare for Emergencies and Evacuations” in Building Services Management discusses the importance of implementing an emergency action plan within the workplace.  Emergency situations in the workplace are a possibility that employers need to take seriously.  According to the article, workplace emergencies are classified as unforeseen situations that can cause physical harm or damage to employees and facilities or the surrounding environment, or cause disruption to the company causing it to shut down temporarily.   Examples of emergencies include: fires, hurricanes, hazardous chemical spills, among others.

The article suggests creating an emergency action plan that outlines guidelines for employees in unpredictable situations.  It is suggested to include management and employees opinions and ideas when creating a comprehensive emergency action plan.  This helps all employees feel involved in creating the plan and creates a stronger success rate.

When developing the emergency plan, the article suggests including the following guidelines in the emergency action plan; a method for reporting emergencies, evacuation policies and procedures, emergency escape procedures and exit information.  It is also suggested that information such as the location of alarms, exits and emergency communication is available for employees to review.

The article suggests valuable information that should be utilized by companies throughout industries.  By creating and implementing an effective emergency plan of action, employers are ensuring the safety of their employees in unpredictable situations.  Rather than, being confused and unsure of what to do when an emergency situation occurs and creating havoc or becoming injured, employees can feel confident and calm that they know how to respond safely to emergencies to ensure a positive outcome.

“Plan of Action: Prepare for Emergencies and Evacuations.” Building Services Management.  December 2010, pg. 26 – 29.

Filed under: Workplace Safety by Beth Faraci Social tagging: preparing for emergencies > Workplace Safety