600 Introduction to Occupational Safety and Health

Evacuation Procedures

Evacuation policies, procedures, and escape route assignments are put into place so that employees understand who is authorized to order an evacuation, under what conditions an evacuation would be necessary, how to evacuate, and what routes to take. Exit diagrams are typically used to identify the escape routes to be followed by employees from each specific facility location.

Evacuation procedures also often describe actions employees should take before and while evacuating, such as shutting windows, turning off equipment, and closing doors behind them.

Under the typical EAP, the employer will expect all employees to evacuate in an emergency. However, sometimes a critical decision may need to be made when planning - whether employees should be trained and responsible for extinguishing small (controllable) fires.

• A disorganized evacuation can result in confusion, injury, and property damage. When developing an emergency action plan, it is important to determine the following:
• conditions under which an evacuation would be necessary.
• conditions under which it may be better to shelter-in-place.
• a clear chain of command and designation of the person in your business authorized to order an evacuation or shutdown.
• specific evacuation procedures, including routes and exits.
• specific evacuation procedures for high-rise buildings for employers and employees.
• procedures for assisting visitors and employees to evacuate, particularly those with disabilities or who do not speak English.
• designation of what, if any, employees will remain after the evacuation alarm to shut down critical operations or perform other duties before evacuating.
• a means of accounting for employees after an evacuation.
• special equipment for employees.
• appropriate respirators.

During the development and implementation of your draft plan, think about all possible emergency situations, and evaluate your workplace to see if it complies with OSHA's emergency standards.

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