Toolbox Talk: Emergency Action Plan

What do you do in case of an emergency? 

An emergency action plan (EAP) is a written document required by particular OSHA standards. [29 CFR 1910.38(a)] The purpose of an EAP is to facilitate and organize employer and employee actions during workplace emergencies. Well-developed emergency plans and proper employee training (such that employees understand their roles and responsibilities within the plan) will result in fewer and less severe employee injuries and less structural damage to the facility during emergencies. A poorly prepared plan likely will lead to a disorganized evacuation or emergency response, resulting in confusion, injury, and property damage. 

Points to Remember: 

1. Reporting emergencies – Employees must know how to report emergencies. It is important for employees to also notify the proper authorities such as fire, medical, or rescue services, if your company relies on this type of assistance during an emergency. 

2. Remain calm – when evacuating a job site or reporting an emergency, do it in a manner that will not cause chaos or confusion. 

3. Train your team – Putting together a comprehensive emergency action plan that deals with those issues specific to your worksite is not difficult. It involves knowing your job site and planning how employees will respond to different types of emergencies, taking into account your specific worksite layout, structural features, and emergency systems.