How do I create an office emergency escape plan?

7/28/2022 (Permalink)

Emergency Escape Plans for Business

Although an emergency escape plan is not required for all businesses, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends building an emergency action plan to protect yourself, your employees, and your business during an emergency situation.  OSHA suggests the following steps when developing such a plan.

ORGANIZE AN EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS PROCEDURES REVIEW WITH EMPLOYEES TO REVIEW YOUR COMPANY'S EMERGENCY PLANS.  You may wish to select an individual or team of individuals to lead and coordinate your emergency plan.

ONCE A PLAN IS DEVELOPED, POST EVACUATION PROCEDURES, INCLUDING ROUTES AND EXITS, WHERE THEY ARE EASILY ACCESSIBLE TO ALL EMPLOYEES.  Ensure all exits and routes are clearly marked and well lit, wide enough to accommodate the number of evacuating personnel, and unobstructed and clear of debris at all times.

CONDUCT OFFICE EVACUATION EXERCISES AND DRILLS.  Designate a safe spot outside of the facility where employees can regroup, recover, and conduct a head count.  Once completed, evaluate how well the plan worked and if additional training or exercises are needed. 

Tips provided by the National Fire Protection Association.