According to model WHS laws, having an emergency evacuation procedure is a vital safeguard for your most valuable asset: your people. An effective evacuation plan can mean the difference between chaos and calm, danger and safety, in critical moments. However, many organisations unknowingly harbour flaws in their plans.
By identifying these common mistakes in evacuation plans and providing practical solutions to enhance emergency preparedness, you can create a safer workplace where everyone is confident about how to respond to emergencies.
Common mistakes in evacuation plans and solutions
Under AS3745:2010, annual evacuation exercises are mandatory, as they give employees and other occupants the confidence to respond during an emergency effectively. However, in certain scenarios, the ability to do this may be hindered due to common errors in evacuation plans.
Inadequate communication systems
Many workplaces rely on outdated or insufficient communication methods during emergencies. This can lead to confusion and delayed responses. To avoid this, implement a multi-channel alert system including PA announcements, SMS alerts, and digital signage. Regularly test these systems and ensure all employees are familiar with the various communication methods used during an evacuation.
Lack of regular training and drills
One-off training sessions are not enough to ensure effective evacuation procedures. Without regular practice, employees may forget crucial steps or panic in real emergencies. Combat this by scheduling frequent, unannounced drills that simulate various scenarios. Conduct thorough debriefs after each drill to identify areas for improvement and refine your evacuation procedure accordingly.
Neglecting accessibility needs
A common oversight in evacuation plans is failing to account for employees or visitors with disabilities or mobility issues. This can lead to dangerous situations during an emergency. Address this by developing personalised evacuation plans for individuals with specific needs. Assign trained companions to assist these individuals and ensure evacuation routes are accessible to everyone.
Unclear or poorly marked exit routes
During an emergency, clear signage can save lives. Many workplaces have inadequate or confusing exit signs, leading to bottlenecks or confusion during evacuations. Rectify this by conducting a thorough review of your exit routes. Install clear, illuminated signage that’s visible even in low-light conditions. Regularly inspect and maintain these signs to ensure they remain effective.
Failure to designate and train floor wardens
Without designated leaders, an evacuation can quickly become disorganised. Many organisations overlook the importance of floor wardens in their evacuation plans. To avoid this, appoint and thoroughly train floor wardens for each area of your workplace. Ensure they understand their responsibilities, including sweeping areas, guiding employees, and communicating with emergency services.
Neglecting post-evacuation plans
The evacuation plan doesn’t end once everyone is out of the building. Many organisations fail to plan for what happens next. Address this by establishing clear assembly points and headcount procedures. Develop a system for accounting for all employees and visitors, and create a protocol for communicating all-clear signals. Include these post-evacuation steps in your training and drills.
Why choose Pre-EMPT for your emergency preparedness
Our comprehensive approach to general evacuation training covers all aspects of emergency preparedness, from initial risk assessment to ongoing training and support. We tailor our programs to your specific workplace, considering your unique layout, staff composition, and potential hazards.
Our innovative training methods, including VR simulations, provide immersive learning experiences for long-term emergency preparedness.
FAQs
How often should we review and update our evacuation procedure?
It’s recommended to review your evacuation plan at least annually. However, you should also update it whenever there are significant changes to your workplace layout, staff composition, or identified risks. Regular reviews ensure your procedure remains current and effective.
How can we ensure our evacuation plan is inclusive of all employees?
To create an inclusive evacuation plan, consult with all employees, especially those with specific needs. Develop personalised emergency evacuation plans (PEEPs) for individuals who may require assistance. Regularly review and update these plans, and ensure all staff are trained to support colleagues with specific needs during an evacuation.
What role do floor wardens play in an evacuation plan?
Floor wardens are crucial in managing an effective evacuation. Their responsibilities typically include sweeping designated areas to ensure all occupants have evacuated, guiding people to safe exit routes, assisting those who need help, and communicating with the chief warden and emergency services.