An emergency action plan (EAP) is defined by OSHA as a written document with the purpose of facilitating and organizing employer and employee actions during workplace emergencies. The most common type of emergency that businesses must plan for is a fire. However, there are all sorts of potential emergencies that should be planned for in an EAP. While most companies have an EAP of some sort, it is important to always be building and improving upon emergency preparedness. Here are some simple tips to consider when preparing your organization for workplace emergencies. creating or revising your EAP – from our team to yours.
Go the extra mile.
It’s always better to err on the side of caution when preparing for emergencies. In your EAP, try and include not only evacuation routes, but also a map that shows important alarm switches, extinguishers, utility shutoffs, etc. It may be worth considering taking a picture of where these are located and including them in your EAP as well. The more organized and more detailed your EAP is, the better. Take the time to find the right balance between detail and readability – it could make the difference if an emergency does arise. Building Maps would be happy to assist you with your EAP mapping needs.
Conduct drills regularly.
While this doesn’t relate directly to creating an emergency action plan, it’s one of the most important components of emergency preparation. As a general rule, your organization or school should be conducting emergency drills about once a month. This includes fire drills, tornado drills, active shooter drills, and any other procedures in place in case of emergencies.
Assign emergency coordinators.
This advice comes directly from the EHS Daily Advisor:
“The employer should designate at least one or more coordinators and backup coordinators with clearly delineated responsibilities in developing procedures; assessing situations; calling for medical, rescue, or fire assistance; declaring an emergency, evacuation, or shelter in place; contacting neighboring businesses/buildings about the nature of the emergency; and directing the shutdown of operations.”
Take the time to assign and train specific employees to take charge in different emergency situations. Once you have identified the right individual, train them thoroughly and properly so they are prepared to lead in emergency situations.
PLAN. PROTECT. SAVE LIVES.
Partnering with Building Maps could be the next step for your organization in improving emergency preparedness. We are the industry leader in fire evacuation and security mapping illustration and services. Send us your existing maps or blueprints, and we will create safe, clean, properly oriented evacuation maps for your buildings. Please contact us, visit our website or request a quote for more info on our services.
