The Emergency Action Plan (EAP) must be in writing and at a minimum, include the following elements:

  • Means of reporting fires and other emergencies
  • Evacuation procedures and emergency escape route assignments
  • Procedures for employees who remain to operate critical plant operations before they evacuate
  • Accounting for all employees after an emergency evacuation has be completed
  • Rescue and medical duties for employees performing them
  • Names or job titles of persons who can be contacted
  • For further checklist items, use the OSHA Emergency Action Plan Checklist

Departments can use the below template to create an EAP for each of their facilities.  For assistance in establishing and implementing an EAP, departments can contact Risk Management.

 

Employee Training

General training for employees should address the following:

  • Individual roles and responsibilities.
  • Threats, hazards, and protective actions.
  • Notification, warning, and communications procedures.
  • Means for locating family members in an emergency.
  • Emergency response procedures.
  • Evacuation, shelter, and accountability procedures.
  • Location and use of common emergency equipment.
  • Emergency shutdown procedures.

Once everyone has had the proper training, it is a good idea to hold practice drills as often as necessary to keep employees prepared. Include outside resources such as fire and police departments when possible. After each drill, gather management and employees to evaluate the effectiveness of the drill. Identify the strengths and weaknesses of your plan and work to improve it.

 

Resources and References