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107 Emergency Action and Fire Prevention Plans
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Emergency Action Plans (EAP)

Introduction

How would you get out of your workplace during an emergency? Do you know all the exit locations in case your main choice is overcrowded? Can you be certain that doors won't be locked and hallways won't be blocked in situations like fires or explosions? An Emergency Action Plan (EAP) aims to guide and coordinate actions when an employer decides that everyone must evacuate due to a workplace emergency.

An Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is a written document that OSHA standard 1910.38 requires. It should cover emergencies you'd likely encounter in the workplace. Examples include fires, toxic chemical releases, hurricanes, tornadoes, blizzards, and floods, among others.

Be ready to respond to and recover from disasters.

Well-developed emergency plans, along with proper training for employees, lead to fewer injuries and less damage to the building during emergencies. It's crucial that employees understand their roles and responsibilities in the plan.

Emergency action plans must be in writing. However, if a workplace has 10 or fewer employees, the plan can be communicated orally instead.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

1-1. Under the Emergency Action Plan (EAP) who is required by the employer to evacuate in response to an emergency?