The start of a new year is an excellent time to conduct an internal analysis of your safety and security policies and procedures. Being prepared for the unexpected allows you to respond more effectively when an event occurs. Likewise, your advanced preparation demonstrates to your employees you are an employer that cares about the safety and well-being of its staff – a key factor in reducing fraudulent work comp claims.

  1. Emergency Plans and Protocols
  • Review and Update Plans: Ensure the emergency response plan is current and aligns with local regulations, new risks, or staff realignment.
  • Evacuation Routes: Verify that all evacuation routes are clear, well-marked, and understood.
  • Communication Procedures: Test emergency communication systems, such as alert systems, email distribution lists, and group texts.
  1. Training and Drills
  • Employee Training: Regularly train staff on emergency protocols, including evacuation, fire safety, and, as appropriate, first aid.
  • Drills: Conduct drills (e.g., fire, active shooter, earthquake) to ensure everyone knows their role and can respond quickly.
  • Special Training: Provide additional training for emergency team members or staff in high-risk roles.
  1. Emergency Equipment
  • Fire Safety: Inspect fire extinguishers, sprinkler systems, and smoke alarms to ensure they are readily accessible, functional, and up to date.
  • First Aid Kits: Check that kits are fully stocked with the necessary supplies.
  • Defibrillators (AEDs): Ensure AEDs are clearly visible and functional and that employees are trained in their use.
  1. Building and Infrastructure
  • Lighting: Verify that emergency exit signs and backup lighting are operational.
  • Utility Shutoffs: Confirm that employees know how to shut off utilities (gas, water, electricity) if necessary.
  1. Emergency Supplies
  • Stock Levels: Maintain sufficient emergency supplies, such as water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, and blankets.
  • Expiry Dates: Regularly check and replace expired items in emergency stockpiles.
  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Ensure adequate PPE is available for reasonably likely exposures such as chemical, biological, physical, electrical, and mechanical hazards, temperature extremes, and noise.
  1. Emergency Contacts
  • Employee Information: Update contact details for all employees, including emergency contacts.
  • Local Services: Verify contact numbers for emergency services, hospitals, and utility companies.
  • Vulnerable Employees: Maintain a list of employees with special needs who may require additional assistance during an emergency.
  1. Cybersecurity and Data Protection
  • Backup Systems: Ensure regular backups of critical business data.
  • Emergency Access: Verify access to critical systems and data in the event of a cybersecurity incident.
  • Disaster Recovery Plans: Test the effectiveness of disaster recovery procedures.
  1. Hazard Assessments
  • Workplace Hazards: Reassess workplace hazards periodically, such as chemical storage, electrical wiring, or high-risk machinery.
  • Perishable/Disposable Goods: Inspect supplies, materials, and goods that have a defined shelf life or may be influenced by temperature, humidity, sunlight, etc.
  1. Post-Incident Reviews
  • Incident Reports: Review past incidents and update plans based on lessons learned.
  • Feedback: Collect feedback from employees after drills or actual emergencies to identify areas for improvement.

By regularly reviewing and updating these components, employers can enhance their workplace’s readiness to handle emergencies and ensure the safety of their employees.