You never know when a workplace emergency will strike. Be prepared with an effective Emergency Action Plan (EAP) that explains how employees will respond to fires, medical emergencies, severe weather, workplace violence, and other incidents.
Well-developed emergency action plans and training so workers understand their roles and responsibilities will reduce injuries and limit property damage. By contrast, a poorly prepared plan and lack of training can lead to a disorganized response, confusion, and greater harm.
For workplaces that rely on emergency dispatch services, consider specialized coverage such as Nine-One-One (911) Emergency Dispatch Services Insurance.
Your EAP should include
- Means of reporting fires and other emergencies.
- Emergency procedures and escape route assignments.
- Procedures for employees who remain to operate critical plant operations before they evacuate.
- Procedures to account for all employees after evacuation is complete.
- Rescue and medical duties for employees who are to perform them.
- Names or job titles of persons to contact for further information or explanation of duties under the plan.
- A description of the alarm system to notify employees (including employees with disabilities) to evacuate or take other actions; alarms for different actions should be distinctive and might include horn blasts, sirens, or a public address system.
- The site of an alternative communications center in the event of a fire or explosion.
- A secure on- or off-site location to store originals or duplicate copies of accounting records, legal documents, employees' emergency contact lists, and other essential records.
Putting an EAP together
- Determine the types of emergencies that could occur at your workplace, such as fires, severe weather, medical events, or workplace violence.
- Evaluate the workplace and describe how you expect employees to respond to each type of emergency.
- Take into account your specific worksite layout, structural features, and emergency systems when drafting procedures.
For educational settings, see School Emergency Action Plan (EAP) Insurance for guidance tailored to schools and campuses.
Include a diverse group of representatives from both management and rank-and-file employees in the planning process. Planners should meet frequently to review progress and assign development tasks; the commitment and support of all employees are critical to the plan's success.
When your plan includes rescue and evacuation duties, consider how medical transport and evacuation will be handled and whether additional planning such as Emergency Medical Evacuation Plans are appropriate for your workplace.
For more information in creating an effective plan, please feel free to talk to an agent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who should be involved in developing an EAP?
Include a diverse team of representatives from management and rank-and-file employees to ensure practical procedures and buy-in across the workplace.
How often should an EAP be reviewed and practiced?
Review the plan at least annually and after significant changes; conduct regular drills so employees know their roles during an emergency.
What records should be stored off-site?
Keep originals or duplicate copies of accounting records, legal documents, employee emergency contact lists, and other essential records in a secure on- or off-site location.
How do we account for employees after an evacuation?
Assign responsible personnel to check designated assembly areas and use an employee roster or electronic system to confirm everyone is safe.