Workplace emergencies come in different forms. You may suffer natural emergencies, and these may be tornadoes, floods, or even fires. The emergency may also be work-related. For example, there may be a chemical spill, explosion, or even a gas leak.
Emergencies in the workplace may also result from civil factors like strikes or even violent attacks. Regardless of the nature of your workplace emergency, you will have to handle it in a way that minimizes the risk of harm.
In this guide, we will look at some things you should do in workplace emergencies.
Preparing Your Workplace for Emergencies
We all hope that we won’t have to deal with workplace emergencies ever in our lives, but it is still important to prepare the space for disasters.
Here are some things you can do to prepare your workplace for emergencies:
- Set up an emergency operating plan
- Back up your data regularly
- Create a communications protocol to make sure things go smoothly
Head for the Emergency Exit
Lots of workplaces have emergency exits as these can be crucial in evacuating buildings. If your workplace has an emergency exit, you should head for it whenever the need arises. It is important to maintain a level of calmness when using the emergency exit as this will help to avoid confusion and panic.
Emergency exits should be free of clutter and should be unobstructed. If there is anything blocking the exits, you should let your supervisor or manager know. Also, any other doors that may be confused for emergency exits have to be labelled appropriately.
Use an Alert System
You can use personal alert systems like Guard Llama to let people know that you have an emergency. This system simply requires you to push a button, and you will then be able to get help from coworkers or friends.
Alert systems can be essential in all types of emergencies, including violent attacks by coworkers or clients.
Use Emergency Equipment
As an employee, you need to know where the first aid kits and emergency tools are located. This way, you will be able to get them quickly when the need arises. For example, when a fire starts, you will be able to grab the fire extinguisher long before the fire can spread.
Perform First Aid
In case of a medical emergency, you will have to perform first aid on the individual. You may need to use first aid kits and even search for first aid instructions on the internet. It is important to only use sites that are affiliated with major medical institutions as these will usually offer great first aid tips.
Conclusion
Workplace emergencies can occur in different ways, and they have to be handled properly and fast. Whenever you get a natural or civil emergency, you should consider heading for the emergency exit as this will help you get to safety fast.
You should also get an alert system so that you let friends and coworkers know that you need help. It is also essential to go for the emergency equipment and first aid kit. These can help you control the situation until professionals arrive.
