Homeland Security > H.A.N.D.S.S. > Prepare at Work

General Emergency Preparedness

An emergency can happen anytime. You and your co-workers should know what to do if an emergency happens at work. Even if you think you are not in a disaster-prone area, something like a chemical tanker truck overturning or a flood can prevent you from getting to or from work. No business should operate without a disaster plan. As many as 40% of small businesses never reopen after a major disaster like a flood or earthquake. If you are a business owner developing a business disaster plan, consider how the disaster could affect your employees, customers and the workplace. Consider how you could continue doing business if the area around your facility is closed or streets are impassable. Consider what you would need to serve your customers if your facility is closed.

Employees should:

• Learn and practice emergency plans. 
• Know at least two exits from each room (if possible).
• Be able to escape in the dark by knowing, for instance, how many desks or cubicles are between your workstation and two of the nearest exits.
• Know the post-evacuation meeting location.
• Know the location of fire extinguishers and how to use them
• Keep a copy of co-workers phone numbers at home
• Make a list of important personal numbers. Keep a printed list at your desk or near other phones. Do not rely on electronic lists, direct-dial phone numbers or computer organizers that may not work in an emergency.
• Gather personal emergency supplies in a desk drawer: Include a flashlight, walking shoes, dust mask, a water bottle and non-perishable food.
• Report safety system damage or malfunctions.
• Never lock or block fire exits or doorways. However, keep fire doors closed to slow the spread of smoke and fire.
• Make specific plans to help each other. Determine how you will help each other in the event that public transportation is shut down or throughways are impassable. Offer to temporarily house, transport or feed your co-workers in case of emergency.

Employers should:

• Ensure that an emergency plan is developed and practiced at least every six months.
• Make specific plans for employees who are disabled or who may require assistance during an emergency.
• Put together an office phone tree. Develop a list of everyone's home phone numbers and who is responsible for making each contact. Provide a copy for each employee.
• Keep a phone list of all key employees with you at all times.
• If you have a voice mail system, designate one remote number on which you can record messages for employees and provide them the number.
• Arrange for programmable call forwarding for your main business lines.
• Leave keys and the alarm codes with a trusted employee or friend in case you cannot get to your facility.
• Backup computer data frequently.
• Purchase a NOAA Weather Radio with a tone alert system.

NOAA Weather Radio
NOAA Weather Radios receive weather and public service announcements from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Emergency Alert System (EAS). NOAA broadcasts 24-local forecasts, travel conditions and severe weather warnings. The EAS provides broadcasts affecting public health and safety. Battery operated weather radios can be purchased for less than $50.00. Several companies offer the radio. They can be located on the internet by using the key words NOAA Weather Radio.

For groups of six or more employees, the Red Cross can schedule a private first aid or CPR course at the Red Cross Office or at your business. Contact Health and Safety Services at 1-702-791-3311 for more information.