The short answer
A workplace emergency action plan should identify foreseeable emergencies and give employees clear, site-specific actions. When OSHA’s 29 CFR 1910.38 applies, minimum elements include procedures for reporting emergencies; evacuation and exit assignments; procedures for employees who remain for critical operations; accounting for employees after evacuation; rescue or medical duties; and names or job titles to contact for more information.
What to know
A robust plan also addresses alarms, chain of command, shelter-in-place, accessible assistance, visitors and contractors, emergency communications, assembly and reunification, responder access, utility shutdown, continuity, and recovery. Hazard-specific sections may cover fire, severe weather, power failure, hazardous materials, workplace violence, active assailants, and medical emergencies. Maps, contact lists, alternate communications, and responsibilities should match the actual facility.
Develop the plan with employee input and coordinate with property management, security, police, fire, emergency medical services, and disability or safety representatives as appropriate. Train affected employees, exercise the plan, document lessons, and revise it after operational changes or incidents. Arrow’s training can support preparedness, but the employer remains responsible for applicable legal requirements and maintaining its plan. Qualified safety and legal advisers should review compliance questions.