Program Development and Support: Emergency Action Plan

What is an Emergency Action Plan (EAP)?

An Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is a written document that defines how a workplace should respond to potential emergencies. EAPs outline the roles and responsibilities, communication procedures, evacuation routes, and methods for accountability after evacuation.

According to OSHA’s Emergency Action Plan Standard (29 CFR 1910.38), employers must create and maintain an EAP that includes:

• • Procedures for reporting fires and other emergencies
  • Evacuation and emergency escape route assignments
  • Actions to be taken before evacuation
  • Methods for accounting for all personnel
  • Rescue and medical duties
  • Names or job titles of key contacts

Who Needs an EAP?

EAPs are required for any workplace that provides or requires fire extinguishers and expects employees to evacuate during a fire or other emergency. This includes:

• • Manufacturing and industrial facilities
  • Warehouses and distribution centers
  • Chemical plants and laboratories
  • Office buildings and multi-tenant complexes
  • Healthcare, education, and government operations

The only exception is a workplace that maintains an in-house fire brigade in which every employee is trained and equipped to fight fires, eliminating the need for evacuation.

Steps to Developing a Strong EAP

Developing a comprehensive EAP involves several key steps:

1. 1. Evacuation Planning – Identify evacuation triggers, routes, and assembly areas that define:
      1. Conditions requiring evacuation
      2. Authorized personnel to order shutdown or evacuation
      3. Procedures for assisting visitors and employees with disabilities
      4. Methods for accounting for all personnel
   2. Reporting & Notification – Establish clear procedures for reporting incidents and alerting employees, including:
      1. Fire and emergency reporting methods
      2. Alarm, mass notification, or public address (PA) systems
      3. Contact lists for internal and external responders
   3. Employee Training & Drills – Train employees so they understand their responsibilities under the plan, including:
      1. Initial and refresher EAP training
      2. Drill design and facilitation
      3. Documentation templates and attendance tracking

Checklist for EAP Compliance

A complete Emergency Action Plan should include:

• • Identification of all potential emergencies (internal and external)
  • Hazard assessment for operations, chemicals, and processes
  • Contact lists for key personnel and emergency responders
  • Evacuation routes, assembly areas, and accountability procedures
  • Rescue and medical response procedures
  • Reporting and alert methods
  • Training frequency and documentation requirements
  • Annual plan review and update schedule

Staying Ahead of EAP Program

Developing an OSHA-compliant Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is essential for protecting your workforce and ensuring all potential risks are addressed. SEC’s experts provide tailored, reliable, and comprehensive EAP solutions that keep your facility prepared and your team confident in their response procedures.