Emergency Response Procedures
The Problem
Emergencies can strike at any time on the job site—whether it’s a fire, gas leak, or another unexpected event. Without clear emergency procedures in place, the risk of injury or loss of life increases significantly. Today, we’ll go over essential emergency response practices to help protect ourselves, our workmates, and the public.
Identify the Hazards
- Blocked Evacuation Routes: Can cause delays and confusion when quick action is needed.
- Outdated Emergency Contacts: Slows down coordination and response.
- Faulty Emergency Equipment: May fail when needed most.
- Lack of Training: Leads to panic or incorrect actions during emergencies.
- Poor Communication: Increases the likelihood of missed alerts or missing persons.
Safety Practices and Preventative Measures
Alarm Systems:
- Learn the sounds of the site’s alarm systems and what they mean:
- Continuous siren: Fire alarm
- Intermittent beeping: Gas detection
- Continuous siren: Fire alarm
- Know the location of manual alarm points and when to use them.
- Understand the testing schedule so you can tell the difference between a test and a real emergency.
Evacuation Routes:
- Know your primary evacuation route and at least one backup route.
- Keep exits and escape routes clear at all times.
- Follow marked exit signs and proceed to the designated assembly area.
Assembly Points:
- Know your team’s designated assembly area.
- Stay at least 50 metres from the building or hazard.
- In poor weather, use the indoor assembly location if one is specified.
- Look for signage or instruction from a Warden.
Head Count Procedures:
- Always sign in when arriving at site to ensure accurate roll calls.
- Report to your team leader at the assembly point for head count.
- Report any missing people immediately.
- Stay at the assembly point until you're cleared to leave.
Emergency Contacts:
- Save key site emergency contacts on your phone.
- Understand the emergency response structure.
- Use radios or phones to keep in touch and follow updates.
- Know when to call 111 for fire, police, or ambulance.
Documentation Requirements:
- Participate in drills—these must be documented.
- Complete incident and near-miss reports after any emergency.
- Keep emergency equipment checklists and test logs up to date.
- Stay current with your emergency training requirements.
Real-Life Case or Scenario
On one site, an employee didn’t know the secondary evacuation route when the main exit was blocked by smoke. Luckily, another worker was able to assist, but the delay could have been disastrous. This highlights the importance of knowing both your primary and secondary routes before an emergency arises.
Employee Responsibilities
- Know and follow your site’s emergency response plan.
- Familiarise yourself with evacuation routes and assembly points.
- Participate in regular drills and training.
- Report any blocked exits or faulty equipment.
- Support your teammates in following correct procedures.
Employer Responsibilities
- Maintain updated emergency plans and clearly marked evacuation routes.
- Ensure all emergency equipment is regularly checked and maintained.
- Provide training and run regular drills.
- Update and communicate emergency contact details and plans.
Discussion & Questions
- “What challenges do you think we’d face during an emergency on this site?”
- “Have you been in an emergency situation before? What worked, what didn’t?”
- “Are you confident with the location of exits and assembly points?”
Encourage workers to share concerns and ideas to strengthen the site’s emergency response.
Commitment/Action Plan
Let’s all take a few minutes this week to review our emergency exits, update emergency contacts, and check that our evacuation routes are clear. We all play a role in keeping the site safe.
Wrap-Up
Emergencies are unpredictable, but preparation saves lives. Knowing your role, understanding the procedures, and staying calm during an emergency can make all the difference. Thanks for your attention—let’s keep each other safe.
Standards Overview
Under the Health and Safety at Work (General Risk and Workplace Management) Regulations 2016:
- All workplaces must have an emergency plan in place.
- Workers must be trained to respond effectively to an emergency.
- Employers must maintain emergency equipment and test it regularly. WorkSafe New Zealand requires these measures to ensure that workers can act quickly and safely when it counts.
Disclaimer
These toolbox talks are provided for informational and educational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional legal, health and safety, or regulatory advice.
The content reflects recognised best practices and general industry standards as at the date of publication. However, it may not be applicable to all workplace environments or specific operational contexts.
It is the responsibility of the Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU), as well as officers, workers, and other duty holders under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA), to ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and WorkSafe New Zealand guidance.
The authors, presenters, and distributors of this toolbox talk disclaim all liability for any loss, damage, or injury arising from the use or reliance on the information provided. Users should seek advice from a suitably qualified health and safety professional or legal advisor for guidance tailored to their specific circumstances.
Always follow your organisation’s policies, procedures, and safe work practices to manage risks and maintain a safe and healthy workplace.
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