How Do You Develop an Evacuation Policy and Procedures?

How to Plan for Workplace Emergencies and Evacuations

What is a Workplace Emergency?

A disorganized evacuation can result in confusion, injury, and property damage. That is why when developing your emergency action plan it is important to determine the following:

• Conditions under which an evacuation would be necessary;
• A clear chain of command and designation of the person in your business authorized to order an evacuation or shutdown. You may want to designate an "evacuation warden" to assist others in an evacuation and to account for personnel;
• Specific evacuation procedures, including routes and exits. Post these procedures where they are easily accessible to all employees;
• Procedures for assisting people with disabilities or who do not speak English;
• Designation of what, if any, employees will continue or shut down critical operations during an evacuation. These people must be capable of recognizing when to abandon the operation and evacuate themselves; and
• A system for accounting for personnel following an evacuation. Consider employees' transportation needs for community-wide evacuations.