Regulations covering the rights of people with disabilities or access and functional needs continue to evolve. Please check local, provincial, and federal ordinances to ensure that your organization complies with rules regarding building entrances and exits, evacuation planning, signage, and safety equipment.
In an emergency, being able to deliver a message quickly and clearly to your staff and visitors can prevent injuries and save lives. Use the following checklist to evaluate and improve your onsite notification system.
Every organization is dependent on business partners for some products and services such as gas, electricity, water, food, etc., or needed materials.
Use this form to organize all significant records rated Critical or Vital at minimum. Subsets of this information can be included with other records.
This video highlights the use and concepts behind doing an HVA. Point to the tool in the Resource Center and urge its use. #13 An emergency response team (ERT) has been formed to help implement the emergency response plan.
This video discusses being sensitive to various special needs populations and mention that the local fire department can help with this issue. The Americans with Disabilities Act may also provide guidance. #17 Arrangements are in place to accommodate the needs of people with disabilities during an emergency.
This video discusses some examples of how an alert and notification system doesn't have to be expensive. A whistle or boat 'fog horn' can do the job. The key is to make sure that the technique covers every part of the facility. #18 There is a procedure for alerting those onsite to a disruption during normal work hours.
This video explains the general role of a Safety Warden and that they are part of the ERT. Discuss some of their responsibilities and the need for ongoing training. #16 Volunteers (i.e., Safety Wardens) have been recruited to work with the emergency response team during a crisis.
This video explains how call trees and online tracking of numbers get out-of-date easily. People move, change names (e.g., marriage), change telephone companies and email addresses - so organizations must stay current on contact information. Also mention the 'out of town relative' number (sometimes called the grandma number). #21 Emergency contact information (staff, clients, key vendors, utilities, etc.) is updated at least annually.
Pointing out where this equipment is located should be part of everyone's safety orientation. Also, remind them that in an emergency to bring the equipment with them. Suggest that people interested in learning more should approach management about additional training. #30 Life-saving equipment (e.g., AEDs, 1st Aid Kits, emergency radios, etc.) is quickly accessible on-site
