Emergency Action Plans and Procedures

Click here to view a video that explains the steps to develop an emergency action plan for your facility.

An emergency action plan is a definite plan to deal with major emergencies and is an important element of OH&S programs.

Besides the major benefit of providing guidance during an emergency, developing the plan has other advantages. You may discover unrecognized hazardous conditions that would aggravate an emergency situation and you can work to eliminate them. The planning process may bring to light deficiencies, such as the lack of resources (equipment, trained personnel, supplies), or items that can be rectified before an emergency occurs. In addition, an emergency plan promotes safety awareness and shows the organization's commitment to the safety of workers.

The lack of an emergency plan could lead to severe losses such as multiple casualties and possible financial collapse of the organization.

An attitude of "it can't happen here" may be present. People may not be willing to take the time and effort to examine the problem. However, emergency planning is an important part of company operations.

Since emergencies will occur, preplanning is necessary. An urgent need for rapid decisions, a shortage of time, and a lack of resources and trained personnel can lead to chaos during an emergency. Time and circumstances in an emergency mean that normal channels of authority and communication cannot be relied upon to function routinely. The stress of the situation can lead to poor judgment resulting in severe losses.

An emergency plan specifies procedures for handling sudden or unexpected situations. The objective is to be prepared to:

• Prevent fatalities and injuries.
• Reduce damage to buildings, stock, and equipment.
• Protect the environment and the community.
• Accelerate the resumption of normal operations.

Development of the plan begins with a vulnerability assessment. The results of the study will show:

• How likely a situation is to occur.
• What means are available to stop or prevent the situation.
• What is necessary for a given situation.

From this analysis, appropriate emergency procedures can be established.

At the planning stage, it is important that several groups be asked to participate. Among these groups, the health and safety committee can provide valuable input and a means of wider worker involvement. Appropriate municipal officials should also be consulted since control may be exercised by the local government in major emergencies and additional resources may be available. Communication, training and periodic drills will ensure adequate performance if the plan must be carried out.