Predict, Plan, and Prepare - Be Ready for Workplace Emergencies

The old adage “to fail to plan is to plan to fail” is certainly true when it comes to responding to a workplace disaster. Employers should establish plans to respond to disasters – natural and human-made – as a matter of corporate citizenship. As it is, many employers are required to establish plans by law.

According to OSHA the essential components of any plan are:

·        A preferred method for reporting emergencies

·        An evacuation policy and procedure

·        Emergency escape procedures and route assignments

·        Names, titles, and contact information for individuals both within and outside the company for additional information

·        Procedures for employees who remain to shut down or operate equipment to combat the emergency before evacuating

·        Rescue and medical duties for designated employees

To learn more about preparing for a workplace emergency, check out KPA's recorded webinar, "When Disaster Strikes, Will You be Prepared?". This webinar includes best practices, regulatory requirements, and how to communicate effectively with employees during and after an emergency in order to minimize stress and anxiety.