Minimum contents of emergency action plan

When compiling an emergency action plan there are several items to consider that should make up your plan, below are some minimum contents that should be in your emergency plan:

• A Preferred method of reporting emergencies,
• An evacuation policy and procedures,
• Emergency escape procedures and route assignments, for example, floor plans, workplace maps and safe areas,
• Names, titles and contact numbers of individuals, both within and outside the workplace to contact for additional information or explain of duties and responsibilities under the emergency plan.
• Procedures for employees who remain to perform or shut down critical plant operations, operate fire extinguishers, or perform other essential services that cannot be shut down for every emergency alarm before evacuating, and
• rescue and medical duties for employees designated to perform them.

You should also consider designating an assembly area and procedures to account for all employees after an evacuation.

In addition, you may also find it helpful to include the following in your plan:

• An alternative communication centre to be used in the event of a fire or explosion,
• A secure one or offsite location to store original/duplicate copies of accounting records, legal documents, employees' emergency contact details and other essential records.