How to Create a Workplace Emergency Action Plan

OSHA requires employers covered under specific standards to have a written emergency action plan (EAP). Even if your business is not specifically required to have one, creating an EAP is a best practice that protects employees and limits liability. OSHA's EAP requirements are found in 29 CFR 1910.38.

What OSHA Requires

Under the standard, an EAP must include at minimum:

• Procedures for reporting fires and other emergencies
• Procedures for emergency evacuation, including exit routes and assembly points
• Procedures for employees who remain behind to operate critical plant operations before evacuating
• Procedures to account for all employees after evacuation
• Rescue and medical duties for designated employees
• Names or job titles of persons to contact for more information about the plan

Employers with 10 or fewer employees may communicate the plan orally rather than in writing.

Identifying Potential Emergencies

Start your planning process by identifying the types of emergencies most likely to affect your workplace:

• Natural disasters: Tornadoes, earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, severe storms
• Fires and explosions: Especially relevant for workplaces with flammable materials
• Chemical spills or releases: For businesses handling hazardous substances
• Active threat situations: Workplace violence or intruder scenarios
• Medical emergencies: Heart attacks, severe injuries, allergic reactions
• Utility failures: Power outages, gas leaks, water main breaks

Your plan should address each realistic scenario with specific procedures.

Developing Evacuation Procedures

Effective evacuation procedures should cover:

• Primary and secondary evacuation routes for each area of the building
• Designated assembly points at a safe distance from the building
• A system for accounting for all employees, visitors, and contractors
• Procedures for assisting employees with disabilities
• Clear signage for exit routes and assembly areas
• Chain of command for authorizing and directing evacuation

Post evacuation maps in prominent locations throughout the workplace and ensure exit routes remain clear at all times.

Assigning Responsibilities

Designate and train specific employees for key emergency roles:

• Emergency coordinator: Overall authority for implementing the plan
• Floor wardens: Responsible for directing evacuation on each floor or area
• First aid responders: Trained to provide immediate medical assistance
• Communication lead: Responsible for contacting emergency services and communicating with employees

Ensure backup personnel are designated for each role in case the primary person is unavailable.

Training and Drills

An EAP is only effective if employees know what to do. OSHA requires that employers train employees:

• When the plan is first developed
• When new employees are hired
• When the plan changes
• When employee responsibilities change

Conduct evacuation drills at least annually, and more frequently for high-risk workplaces. After each drill, review what worked and what needs improvement, and update the plan accordingly.

Document all training sessions and drills, including dates, participants, and any corrective actions identified.