Evacuating employees

Decontamination is one process in your employer’s written emergency plan that responders need to pay close attention to. However, the plan must also describe your role during an emergency spill. While most plans might vary by facility, there are a few common elements you need to be aware of.

Your employer may explain to you:

• The route they expect you to take during evacuation procedures.
• The headcount area they expect you to report to.
• How to alert employees nearby.
• Where to go in the event your emergency exit route is blocked.

Responders

When there’s a spill you’re trained to handle the situation. But when the cleanup is over, what will prevent contamination from being spread when you leave the building?

This is where decontamination processes come into play. There are a few key elements you need to be aware of when leaving the building:

• Know your standard operating procedures, including decontamination processes,
• Understand where to go to dispose of contaminated clothing, and
• Know where showers, cleanup stations, laundering, and maintenance stations are located.

Everyone needs to do their part

Whether you evacuate a facility during an emergency or respond to one, protect yourself by knowing exactly what to do. The more you know, the better your chances at making it home safe. Communicate to your employer or fellow teammates if you’re not sure what to do.