Why Your Business Needs an Emergency Action Plan (And How to Create One)

Emergencies strike when least expected, often leaving workplaces unprepared to respond. A well-developed Emergency Action Plan (EAP) saves lives, protects property, and ensures the safety of your workforce and the public. In this guide, you’ll discover why an EAP is crucial, its essential components, and how Smarter Risk can help simplify the process.

Emergency Action Plan: What It Is & Why Your Workplace Needs One

An Emergency Action Plan is a structured, written strategy that outlines how a workplace should respond during emergencies such as fires, severe weather, chemical spills, or medical emergencies. It increases the likelihood that employees, customers, and company assets remain safe.

Why an Emergency Action Plan is Essential

Emergencies can cause confusion and panic. However, a well-crafted EAP outlines what to do during an emergency, helping workplaces stay organized and safe. Here’s why every organization should have one:

Enhanced Safety – Employees are trained to handle emergencies effectively.
Regulatory Compliance – OSHA and other regulatory agencies require businesses to implement an EAP.
Minimized Downtime – A structured response plan helps operations resume quickly.
Clear Communication – Employees, supervisors, and emergency responders can work together to keep everyone safe.

Key Components of a Workplace Emergency Action Plan

Developing a robust Emergency Action Plan doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Your plan should include:

1. Defined Responsibilities

Assign an Emergency Action Plan Manager to oversee updates and training.
Clearly define roles for supervisors, emergency coordinators, and employees.

2. Step-by-Step Emergency Procedures

For different emergencies, your plan must include detailed protocols:

Fire Evacuations – Identify exit routes, fire extinguisher locations, and safe assembly areas.
Severe Weather Sheltering – Assign safe zones for tornadoes, hurricanes, and earthquakes.
Medical Emergencies – Establish procedures for first aid, CPR, and contacting emergency services.

3. Communication Protocols

Use alarms, intercoms, and text alerts to notify employees.
Assign a designated employee to account for personnel during an evacuation.

4. Evacuation Maps & Accessibility

Provide floor plans showing exit routes, fire extinguisher locations, and first aid kits.
Ensure maps include accessibility routes for disabled employees.

5. Regular Training & Drills

Conduct monthly or quarterly emergency drills.
Maintain a training log to track compliance and employee participation.

6. Continuous Review & Updates

Update your EAP annually or after significant workplace changes (e.g., renovations, new hires).

💡 Pro Tip: Use Smarter Risk’s Policy Builder Tool to generate an EAP in just a few clicks!

Types of Workplace Emergencies Your Plan Should Cover

Every workplace faces different risks, but a comprehensive EAP should cover:

🚨 Fire & Explosions – Evacuation routes, fire extinguisher use, and emergency exits.
☢ Hazardous Material Spills – Steps for containment, PPE use, and chemical handling.
🌪 Severe Weather Events – Tornadoes, hurricanes, and extreme snowstorms.
🚔 Active Shooter Incidents – Lockdown procedures and employee safety measures.
💉 Medical Emergencies – CPR, AED locations, and 911 contact procedures.

Your organization can ensure preparedness and minimize negative outcomes by addressing these scenarios.

🔗 Helpful Resource:BLR 7 Essentials of an Emergency Action Plan

Tools & Resources for Building Your Emergency Action Plan

At Smarter Risk, we make EAP development simple. Here’s how we can help:

Free Risk Assessment – If you’re unsure where to start, our free risk assessment tool evaluates your workplace and provides actionable recommendations to address potential hazards. The assessment can be completed in minutes.

Policy Builder Tool – Create a custom Emergency Action Plan in just a few clicks.

Access to Ready-Made Forms– Our Forms Library includes over 150 customizable templates, including Emergency Action Policy Forms.

How to Effectively Implement Your Emergency Action Plan

Creating an EAP is just the beginning. To ensure effective implementation, follow these steps:

1. Engage Your Team

Involve employees in developing and testing the plan.
Gather feedback to identify any overlooked risks.

2. Communicate Clearly

Make sure employees know where to find the EAP and are familiar with their roles.
Provide digital copies and summaries for quick reference.

3. Practice Regularly

Conduct fire drills, first aid training, and evacuation exercises at least twice a year.
After each drill, assess gaps and make necessary updates.

4. Incorporate Feedback & Improve

After an emergency or drill, collect employee feedback.
Update the plan based on lessons learned.

FAQs About Workplace Emergency Action Plans

What is the purpose of an Emergency Action Plan?

An EAP outlines step-by-step procedures for handling emergencies, ensuring workplace safety, and alignment with OSHA regulations.

Who is responsible for managing the Emergency Action Plan?

An Emergency Action Plan Manager oversees updates, training, and implementation to maintain compliance and readiness.

How often should we review and update our Emergency Action Plan?

Your EAP should be reviewed annually or after significant workplace changes (e.g., office renovations, new hires).

Does OSHA require businesses to have an Emergency Action Plan?

Yes, OSHA mandates an EAP for businesses in industries handling fire hazards, hazardous materials, and high-risk environments. Check the OSHA standard for your specific situation. Regardless of the OSHA requirement, every organization should have an EAP to manage risk effectively.

Can I use templates for my Emergency Action Plan?

Yes, but they should be customized to your workplace. Smarter Risk’s Policy Builder generates tailored EAPs. Your customized policy is downloaded in word format so you can further customize depending on your situation.

What training is necessary for an Emergency Action Plan?

Employees should participate in onboarding training, periodic drills, and EAP updates to stay prepared.

Conclusion: Be Prepared, Stay Safe

An Emergency Action Plan is imperative for outlining clear procedures, assigning responsibilities, and conducting regular training to ensure your employees can respond quickly and effectively to any crisis.

At Smarter Risk, we make workplace safety simple and stress-free. Use our risk assessment and Policy Builder Tool to create your Emergency Action Plan today!

🔗 Start your FREE workplace risk assessment now!