What are the reasons for an emergency action plan? The Federal Emergency Management Agency gives some reasons for emergency plans, including employee safety. They point out that 40% of businesses never reopen after a disaster. But even if there is no emergency, confusion will only make matters worse. Here are some steps to help you create and monitor an emergency action plan. Read on to learn more about the importance of an emergency action plan. And be prepared to use it in case of a real emergency.
Considerations for emergency action
Regardless of the type of disaster, planning for emergency action requires the careful consideration of certain population groups. Children are an especially vulnerable population, as their cognitive abilities are often not comparable to those of adults. Furthermore, children have a different perception of the world around them. This creates many unique challenges in emergency planning. This article outlines some considerations for emergency action with children in mind. It also includes a list of resources to help you plan for disasters and emergencies with children.
First, determine what kinds of emergencies your business faces. For example, how might a fire affect your business? Whether a natural disaster has hit your area or a natural disaster, you should develop an emergency action plan that addresses those risks. A plan should also address any hazardous materials you may have on hand, any older buildings that do not meet current safety codes, and any unusually high levels of radiation or carbon dioxide. Consideration of natural hazards will ensure that your business remains open and available for its employees.
Identify the most likely disasters your organization may face. Many types of disasters are similar, but some are unique. To plan for a specific type of emergency, you should identify which events affect your business the most. For example, if your company is located in Miami, Florida, it would make little sense to prepare for a power outage during a winter storm, but if the situation is different in other areas, such as New Orleans or San Francisco, you will be ready for that type of emergency.
Steps to create an emergency action plan
A good emergency action plan will include all of the details of a possible disaster, such as hazards and risks. It should detail both internal and external threats, and consider the resources that are available to mitigate those risks. If necessary, an emergency action plan may include installing an indoor sprinkler system, hiring staff who are trained in CPR and first aid, and locating fire extinguishers in designated safe areas. Listed below are some steps to follow when creating an emergency action plan.
Consider what kinds of disasters your property is likely to face. A basic plan should include procedures for assessing damage, salvaging property, and restoring damaged property. Some plans will also address terrorist activity. The hazards may also be created by neighbors. If there is a chemical plant nearby, it could impact nearby sites. And, power outages can exacerbate hazardous situations. So, be sure to consider these factors when creating an emergency action plan.
Develop the plan before an emergency strikes. First, analyze the risks facing your business. Consider hazards like hazardous materials in the building, old buildings that may not be up to safety codes, and natural disasters that may affect certain areas of the country. After determining the risks, create a plan that will take care of the situation and keep employees safe. You will be glad you took the time to create an emergency action plan.
Monitoring an emergency action plan
One of the most important aspects of your company’s safety policy is monitoring an emergency action plan. A plan describes the steps employees should take during an emergency. Most workplaces are required to create such plans, and they must be written. However, companies with fewer than 10 employees may create a plan or communicate it orally. For additional help, you can turn to Missouri On-Site Safety and Health Consultation. It can also be useful to include a disaster-preparedness plan for the location of the disaster.
An EAP should be reviewed annually, or more often if necessary. It should reflect any changes that have occurred, such as new hires, remodeling, and new programs. It should also be regularly exercised to ensure that the plan still serves its purpose. Here are a few tips to keep your EAP up-to-date and effective:
First, develop your emergency plan before an event occurs. Consider the potential hazards that your organization could face, including hazardous materials on hand and older buildings with fewer safety codes. For example, you would not want to spend a lot of money preparing for power outages during a winter storm, if you were in Miami, Florida. By analyzing your risk factors, you can develop a plan that addresses your specific business risks and responds appropriately.