Take these steps to create an emergency evacuation plan for your business.
Unfortunately, a natural disaster or other major emergency can strike with very little warning. That’s why it’s so important that your employees know what to do in an emergency situation. One of the best way to be prepared is by having an emergency evacuation plan for your business. Not sure what an evacuation plan entails? Then take these steps to help you create a plan for your business.
1) Set Procedures and Escape Route Assignments
Floor maps of your building should be posted prominently throughout your office space. The location of exits, meeting points, and the location of equipment such as fire extinguishers and first aid kits should be clearly marked. Your building’s exit routes should always be well lit and should be kept clear to facilitate emergency evacuations.
2) Establish a Clear Chain of Command
When an evacuation takes place, you will need several calm and responsible individuals to oversee the evacuation process. It’s important that your employees know who to look to for advice and directions. That’s why it’s best to establish a chain of command before an emergency actually occurs. Your leaders should understand their role fully and know that they might have to make split decisions for the safety of the rest of your employees.
3) Organize an Employee Check-In Process
Finally, you should create a procedure for employees to check in after an emergency evacuation. You should assign someone to take a headcount to ensure that all employees are present. A secondary check-in procedure should also be in place to inquire after employees who are not present.
Once you have an emergency action plan for your business, it’s important that you practice it. Practicing your plan several times a year will ensure that your employees will know what to do when a real emergency arises. Want another way to prepare your business for an emergency? Then make sure you have the proper insurance protections in place. To find the right policies to protect your business and your employees, contact the experts at Contractors Insurance Agency.