Laws – Emergency Action Plan
This Cal/OSHA regulation [Title 8 CCR §3220] sets mimimum requirements for Emergency Action Plans, such as evacuation plans. It requires employers with more than 10 employees to have such a plan in writing. Employers with 10 or fewer employees do not need to have a written plan, but they do need to meet all the other requirements of the Emergency Action Plan and must communicate these elements to employees.
The Emergency Action Plan must include the following elements:
- Emergency escape procedures and routes.
- Procedures explaining how critical operations will be maintained during and after an emergency (if necessary).
- Procedures to account for all employees after an emergency evacuation has been completed.
- Rescue and medical duties for staff. Employees should know who is trained in first aid or CPR and where to get medical attention if needed.
- How employees should report fires and other emergencies.
- Who is responsible for coordinating emergency response.
- See the TASH Factsheet, Preparing for Emergencies.
Alarm system
The employer must have an alarm system that can be seen, heard, and understood by all employees.
Evacuation
The plan should designate inside shelters, exits, evacuation routes and procedures, and outside meeting places. Exits and evacuation routes should be checked periodically to be sure they are not blocked.
Training
The employer must designate and train key staff to assist in evacuation procedures. All employees need to understand what to do during different kinds of emergencies. Employees should be trained so they understand: their responsibilities during an emergency; the alarm system and “all clear” announcements; where to gather during an emergency; how to report an emergency; what to do if there is a chemical spill; and who has training in first aid and training in the use of fire extinguishers.
Resources
- OSHA Evacuation Plans and Procedures eTool This eTool will help small, low-hazard service or retail businesses implement an Emergency Action Plan, and comply with OSHA’s emergency standards.
