An emergency action plan (EAP) is a written document required by particular OSHA standards. 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.
Putting together a comprehensive emergency action plan that deals with those issues specific to your worksite is not difficult. It involves taking what was learned from your workplace evaluation and describing how employees will respond to different types of emergencies, taking into account your specific worksite layout, structural features, and emergency systems. Most organizations find it beneficial to include a diverse group of representatives (management and employees) in this planning process and to meet frequently to review progress and allocate development tasks. The commitment and support of all employees is critical to the plan's success in the event of an emergency; ask for their help in establishing and implementing your emergency action plan. For smaller organizations, the plan does not need to be written and may be communicated orally if there are 10 or fewer employees.
At a minimum, the plan must include but is not limited to the following elements:
" Means of reporting fires and other emergencies;
" Evacuation procedures and emergency escape route assignments;
" Procedures to be followed by employees who remain to operate critical plant operations before they evacuate;
" Procedures to account for all employees after an emergency evacuation has been completed;
" Rescue and medical duties for those employees who are to perform them; and
" Names or job titles of persons who can be contacted for further information or explanation of duties under the plan.
The Iowa Emergency Action Plan Checklist, also known as EAP, is a comprehensive and detailed document designed to support organizations and communities in effectively responding to emergency situations. It serves as a roadmap for emergency management, ensuring that essential steps and procedures are followed to mitigate risks and protect lives and property during crises. This checklist encompasses a wide range of emergency scenarios, including natural disasters like floods, tornadoes, severe storms, and blizzards, as well as human-caused emergencies such as fires, hazardous material incidents, and acts of terrorism. By considering these various types of emergencies, the EAP ensures that organizations are well-prepared to handle any situation that may arise. The Iowa EAP checklist consists of the following sections: 1. Assessing Hazards: This initial step involves identifying potential risks specific to the organization, such as proximity to floodplains, fault lines, or chemical storage facilities. It includes evaluating the likelihood and potential impact of each hazard. 2. Developing Response Procedures: This section outlines the steps to be taken during emergencies. It covers incident command structure, communication protocols, evacuation procedures, emergency sheltering, medical response, and resource allocation. 3. Establishing Communication Channels: Efficient communication is crucial during emergencies. This segment of the checklist emphasizes the establishment of reliable communication systems, including emergency notification platforms, dedicated communication channels, and contact information for key personnel, local authorities, and external response agencies. 4. Creating Evacuation Plans: For scenarios that necessitate evacuations, this section outlines evacuation routes, assembly areas, transportation arrangements, and procedures to handle special needs individuals, such as elderly or disabled persons. 5. Coordinating Emergency Services: Collaboration with external emergency response agencies is vital for effective disaster management. The EAP checklist includes contact details for local law enforcement, fire departments, emergency medical services, public health agencies, and other relevant organizations. 6. Ensuring Safety Compliance: Compliance with safety regulations and standards is integral for emergency preparedness. This segment outlines the importance of conducting drills, training programs, and regular equipment maintenance to ensure safety and preparedness. 7. Reviewing and Updating the EAP: Continual reviewing and updating of the EAP is crucial to reflect changing circumstances, advancements in technology, and lessons learned from previous incidents. This includes conducting periodic EAP drills, simulations, and incorporating feedback from stakeholders. By following the Iowa Emergency Action Plan Checklist, organizations and communities can enhance their readiness for emergencies, enable effective response and recovery efforts, and ultimately minimize the impact of disasters on individuals, infrastructure, and the environment.
