Emergency Preparedness and Response (ISO 45001 Clause 8.2)

Introduction

When seconds count, you need a plan. ISO 45001 requires you to prepare for potential emergency situations.

Key Elements of a Plan

1. Identification: What could happen? (Fire, explosion, chemical release, medical emergency, violence, natural disaster).
2. Response:
   • Evacuation: Routes, assembly points, headcounts.
   • Medical: First aid kits, trained first aiders, AEDs.
   • Communication: Alarms, contacting emergency services.
3. Training: Everyone needs to know what to do.
4. Testing: Drills are mandatory.

First Aid Needs Assessment

You should conduct an assessment to determine:

• How many first aiders do we need?
• What level of training do they need?
• What equipment (kits, eye wash stations) do we need?

Review

After every drill or real occurrence, review the plan. Did the alarm work? Did everyone hear it? Did the fire doors close?