Evacuation Drills in the Workplace

6/1/2020 (Permalink)

Does your business have an emergency plan? Do you practice your Evacuation routes?

Workplace emergencies can happen, and employees should know how to handle them. If they do not then chaos could happen, putting people at risk of injury. Holding a fire drill is not just for kids, adults need it as well, identifying the most efficient and safest pathways to take. After all, fire restoration companies can repair a building, however they cannot give back a life. Thus, managers and business owners in the Dale City, Lake Ridge, Woodbridge and Lorton areas should do three things to prepare workers for these occasions, giving them needed information.

1) Create a Plan

Employers should start thinking about possible trouble. Are you prepared for a fire? Do you know how to handle violence? What would you do in the case of flooding? These situations pose physical threats and should be taken seriously. After all, you cannot predict these occasions. They just happen. Sit down with a team, thinking about your facility and how you could leave it quickly and securely. Then organize your concepts in a portfolio, available for annual review. Make sure you include the following:

• Safety protocols
• Evacuation maps
• Emergency contact numbers
• Medical notes
• Relocation spots

2) Share Information

With a blueprint in hand, hold a meeting with your team. Review your expectations. How should people report an incident? Who has chain of command? Where are accessible exits? You do need multiple paths in case one becomes cut off. In addition, assign one or two people with medical responsibilities, capable of assisting those who may get hurt or need extra attention. Disseminate the fire drill information at least once a year, asking for feedback and questions.

3) Practice Procedures

During a major event, people sometimes panic. Have a run-through once a year, if not more. This could give people the security they need to avoid craziness. Initiate the event by sending out your warning. You will need to know if everyone receives the alert. Then, time how long it takes for everyone to leave. When all is done, reassess and make amendments as needed.
Brainstorm ways to best save lives; then, hold a fire drill. Be patient, and work through any complications. Just remember that safety is key.