Workplace Preparedness

Under Occupational Safety and Health legislation, all employers are required to "develop procedures for dealing with emergencies that may arise while employees are at work". This includes emergencies such as earthquake or flood as well as localised emergencies that may occur only in the place of employment such as fire, spills, contamination etc.

It is the responsibility of the employee to be aware of such procedures and to know the location of safety equipment and materials.

Individuals At Work Should....

Identify your Floor Wardens and First Aiders

Identify the location of emergency equipment

Identify the location of the First Aid Kit and Manual

Identify the location of water taps, electrical switches and switchboards

Identify potential hazards, such as large windows

Secure equipment, cabinets, bookshelves and heavy objects

Identify safe and unsafe places around your immediate work area

Practise getting under your desk or into a safe spot as quickly as possible

Keep extra warm clothing and sensible shoes at work

Keep a store of energy bars and a large bottle of water

Keep a supply of essential medications at work

Store a supply of different sized plastic bags, a torch and spare batteries