Emergency response plan is a definite plan to deal with major emergencies.

Emergency response plan includes:

  • All possible emergencies, consequences, required actions, written procedures, and the resources available.
  • Detailed lists of emergency response personnel including their cell phone numbers, alternate contact details, and their duties and responsibilities.
  • Floor plans.
  • Large scale maps showing evacuation routes and service conduits (such as gas and water lines).

An emergency response plan specifies procedures for handling sudden or unexpected situations to:

  • Prevent fatalities and injuries.
  • Reduce damage to buildings, stock, and equipment.
  • Protect the environment and the community.
  • Accelerate the resumption of normal operations.

The emergency response plan includes the forming of an Emergency Response Team (ERT). Each of the ERT members will have specific roles and responsibilities during an emergency. ERT generally consists of:

  • Emergency Commander
  • Emergency Coordinator
  • First Line Crew / Rescue Squad
  • First Aider
  • Security Team
  • Floor Warden

Completing a comprehensive plan for handling emergencies is a major step toward preventing disasters. Exercises and drills may be conducted to practice all or critical portions (such as evacuation) of the plan. The plan should be revised when shortcomings have become known and should be reviewed at least annually.