No matter what type of business you operate, you should have an emergency response plan. When employees know what to do in a stressful situation, they’ll be able to make decisions and take actions that can prevent loss of life, minimize injuries, and help people get to safety.
Think about the Kinds of Hazards Your Team Could Face
Before you can develop an emergency response plan, you’ll have to consider the types of emergencies your employees might encounter. Those can include everything from a fire to a hurricane, a tornado, a power outage, or an active shooter. You’ll have to create a plan to deal with each scenario.
You might have to include multiple options so employees will know what to do in different circumstances. For example, if there is a natural disaster, local officials might order people to evacuate or instruct them to shelter in place. Workers will have to know which routes to follow when exiting the building and where to go if they’re advised to stay and hunker down.
Gather Appropriate Supplies
People might have to shelter in place for hours, or even days if a disaster makes it impossible for them to leave safely and makes it difficult for first responders to reach them. You’ll need to stock up on supplies that can help your employees stay safe until they get help.
Your business should have at least three days’ worth of emergency food and water. If customers frequently visit your building or people come for meetings, take that into consideration when you stock up on supplies. If a natural disaster occurs when non-employees are in the building, they might be forced to shelter in place with your staff.
Your workplace should have at least one fully stocked first aid kit or cabinet. If you have a large building, you’ll need several kits. Remember that in an emergency, damage, debris, and injuries can make it difficult for people to get around. Make sure that first aid supplies will always be close at hand when your employees need them.
Consider your team’s other needs. A natural disaster can leave homes and businesses without electricity, running water, and working toilets. Stock up on flashlights, batteries, emergency radios, antimicrobial wipes, and portable toilets.
Order Supplies So You’ll Be Prepared for an Emergency
You can get all these items, and more, from 1st Aid Supplies. We offer first aid kits that can be stored in closets or drawers and easily carried from place to place, as well as first aid cabinets that can be mounted on walls in visible and accessible locations. We also sell emergency food and water, sanitation supplies, and other essentials. Assess your company’s needs and place an order today.
