Being Prepared For Emergencies

18-05-2016

Effective planning for emergencies, may be the difference between multiple fatalities, asset loss and getting out alive. The type and scale of emergencies planned for will vary between organisations, dependent on the nature of risk. Planning for emergencies can be a daunting task, AS 3745-2010 Planning for emergencies in facilities, provides guidance for their development and explanation of the roles required.

When developing Emergency Management Procedures (EMP), there are a number of factors to consider, such as:

  1. What would do the greatest damage to people, plant and equipment?
  2. How would we alert employees in an emergency?
  3. Where will we evacuate? Is there a designated area?
  4. When was the last evacuation drill?
  5. Who will direct the emergency and do they have sufficient training?
  6. Is our workplace fitted with smoke/heat detectors? When were they serviced last?
  7. Do we have firefighting equipment such as extinguishers and fire blankets? Is there location known?
  8. In a medical emergency, what would we do?
  9. How would we handle a bomb threat or an intruder?
  10. Are there hazardous chemicals held on site?
  11. Is our workplace located in an area subject to flooding? When should we evacuate?
  12. Do we have an up to date emergency evacuation diagram? Where are they located?

There are many questions that need to be asked and addressed to ensure that your workplace is equipped to handle an emergency. Who will ask these questions within your organisation?

Don’t wait until it is too late to consider your organisation’s emergency response. Planning ahead can save lives and minimise damage.

Our experienced, SIA Approved consultants work with companies to ensure they are prepared for all practicable emergencies. Call us today to find out how we can assist your business with planning for emergencies: 1300 123 647 or email: safety@safetyzone.net.au.