Emergencies

An essential component of work health and safety is to be prepared for possible events that may occur in the workplace. This requires a person conducting a business or undertaking to develop and document a plan for incidents, accidents and emergencies that may occur. Workers must be informed of and trained in procedures. The person conducting a business or undertaking must also review plans to ensure they are effective and up to date.

An emergency plan should be based on a practical assessment of hazards associated with the work activity or workplace, and the possible consequences of an emergency occurring as a result of those hazards. External hazards should also be considered in preparing an emergency plan, for example a chemical storage facility across the road.

Emergency plans do not necessarily have to be lengthy or complex. They should be easy to understand and tailored to the specific workplace where they apply.

In preparing an emergency plan, all relevant matters need to be considered including:

  • the nature of the work being carried out at the workplace
  • the nature of the hazards at the workplace
  • the size and location of the workplace, for example, remoteness, proximity to health services
  • the number and composition of the workers, for example, employees, contractors, and other persons such as visitors at the workplace

Emergency plans, or a summary of key elements of emergency plans, should be readily accessible by workers or on display in the workplace, for example on a notice board.

Emergency evacuation

A person conducting a business or undertaking must maintain an accurate and up to date emergency evacuation plan. The plan, including emergency exits must be displayed prominently in the workplace. Workers must be trained in evacuation procedures including:

  • the identity of the Wardens
  • the alarm system and emergency warning and intercommunication system used in the building
  • actions that building occupants are required to take in response to alarms
  • the evacuation route(s) to be taken
  • assembly area or designated alternative areas which provide a safe refuge internally or externally
  • how the end of the evacuation will be signalled
  • what is required at the completion of the evacuation

For more information refer to the Emergency plans fact sheet on the Safe Work Australia website.

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