An emergency or disaster can strike at any time without warning. OSHA defines a workplace emergency as a situation which threatens workers, customers, or the public; disrupts or shuts down operations; or causes physical or environmental damage.
Employers and employees should be prepared to deal with such situations and plan how to respond. The best way is to prepare a response before an emergency occurs. Many situations which occur during emergencies can be anticipated in the planning process. This allows employers and employees to plan a course of action to take if needed. It can be difficult to think clearly and logically during a crisis, so it is important to do so in advance.
Preparing before an emergency event occurs plays a vital role in ensuring employers and employees have the right equipment, know where to go when it happens and know how to keep safe. Companies need to establish an Emergency Action Plan or EAP. The EAP will be the guide for employers and employees to help prepare and respond accordingly when an emergency incident happens. For more information on these materials please contact National Safety Compliance at 1.877.922.7233 or visit us online at www.osha.ws
