Emergency Action Plans and Fire Protection

Shelter-in-Place

During a natural disaster, such as a tornado, or during a man-made event, such as when chemical, biological, or radiological contaminants are released, sheltering-in-place is recommended. During such events, you should follow recommended safety precautions, such as sealing up vents, windows, and doors, seeking refuge in a windowless, interior room, keeping in communication, and monitoring the ongoing situation.

Emergency Action Plan

Emergency Action Plan

Types of Fire Extinguishers

Fires are classified into five different categories depending on what is burning. There are four types of fire extinguisher. The type of fire extinguisher used to fight a fire depends on the type of fire being fought. There is a standard set of steps to be followed when using a fire extinguisher to fight a fire. Fire extinguishers must be routinely maintained if they are to remain effective.

Fire Prevention Plan

Having a fire prevention plan means that because advance planning has taken place, any emergencies should result in few injuries and damage. Fire prevention plans have required elements and they must exist in a written format which employees can be trained on. Understanding the risks and hazards associated with fires assists in preventing accidents occurring in the first place.

exit Routes

In order to ensure safe and timely evacuation in an emergency situation, exit routes must follow strict criteria. Exit routes must be adequately signposted, exit to an outside area, be unlocked, be sufficiently large, as well as being sufficient for the number of people needing to exit during an emergency.

Evacuation

While many different types of emergencies require evacuation, the decision to evacuate is dependent on factors such as of the extent or location of the emergency or even the type of building in which it is occurring. Your employer should have a plan in place regarding the expected evacuation plans or fire fighting expectations and ensure that all employees are aware of both evacuation plans and what to do once the emergency has passed.