Shop Survival Bags

BE READY FOR THE UNEXPECTED

Let’s connect

Search

Is Everyone Prepared: EAP Checklist

We’ve been talking about work place safety for some time now and have highlighted the various things to look out for and to prepare for in an emergency situation while at work in effort to keep you prepared and safe at all times. It’s something we’re adamant about because we know the dangers of being caught off guard. That’s the main reason we introduced our top of the line 72-hour emergency kits, so that you’re always ready no matter what curveball mother nature throws your way.

Instead of focusing on what to do individually, when it comes to emergency planning across the entire business, it’s crucial to have an official EAP, or Emergency Action Plan. An EAP is a written document that meets particular OSHA standards with the purpose to aid and organize employees and their actions in the event of workplace emergencies.

A well-developed EAP coupled with the proper employee training helps mitigate employee injuries and structural damage during emergencies. Without a plan, or with a poorly developed one, hysteria, disorganization, and confusion can take over, which can ultimately lead to preventable injuries and property damage.

The first step in creating a concrete EAP is to do a workplace evaluation so that everyone within the business is on the same page in terms of the specific workplace layouts, structural features, and emergency systems in place. Then, in full accordance with OSHA, your plan must include but is not limited to the following:

  • Means of reporting fires and other emergencies
  • Evacuation procedures and emergency escape route assignments
  • Procedures for employees who remain to operate critical plant operations before they evacuate
  • Accounting for all employees after an emergency evacuation has been completed
  • Rescue and Medical Duties for Employees Performing Them
  • Names or job titles of persons who can be contacted

Remember, drafting an Emergency Action Plan alone isn’t enough to keep your employees safe. In the event of a real evacuation, having responsible, trained, and trustworthy individuals who are capable of supervising and coordinating the necessary activities to ensure a successful and safe evacuation is paramount.

Your companies EAP will only be useful if its current, well planned and employees are sufficiently educated and trained before an actual emergency event. To make sure your company or business is prepared, review the OSHA certified EAP checklist here.