Laboratories must have an emergency response plan that is systematic, understandable, and doable. In drafting an emergency response plan, here are some considerations:
The location of emergency medication and equipment
First aid kits, medication, emergency shower, eyewash, spill kit, fire extinguishers, fire blankets, and other needs must be in a nearby and accessible area. There should be a sign that point to the location so that even those who are not familiar with the area will be able to find these items. In addition, laboratory workers must know how to apply or use these items.
Emergency exits and evacuation plans
Aside from posting a map at the entrance and exit of each room, it's also important to bring laboratory workers to where these places are. In times of emergencies, one can become disoriented. Knowing where these exits are can help people escape faster. As for evacuation plans, it's important to have a guide where people can relocate when an emergency occurs. This will make for easier regrouping and crisis management. Having one evacuation route may not be enough. There should be at least two options as to where people can find safety.
Trained first responders
There are people in the laboratory who have been trained in first aid and disaster preparedness. These people can be put in charge of the laboratory's emergency response team. Since they have the know-how and certification, they'll be able to help their co-workers find safety when needed. The whole laboratory must be aware of the people they can rely on during emergencies. The safety of everyone in the area should always be a top priority. Having a systematic emergency response plan that is easy to follow and remember can help prevent the damages when crises arise.
Captain Martin Lloyd Sanders, Ph.D., is a scientist officer in the Commissioned Corps of the U.S. Public Health Service. He has more than 12 years of service in the field of epidemiology and occupational safety and health, with extensive experience in biological defense activities and infectious disease outbreak investigation. Visit this page for more information on Capt. Sanders.
Image source: Azdhs.gov
First aid kits, medication, emergency shower, eyewash, spill kit, fire extinguishers, fire blankets, and other needs must be in a nearby and accessible area. There should be a sign that point to the location so that even those who are not familiar with the area will be able to find these items. In addition, laboratory workers must know how to apply or use these items.
Emergency exits and evacuation plans
Trained first responders
There are people in the laboratory who have been trained in first aid and disaster preparedness. These people can be put in charge of the laboratory's emergency response team. Since they have the know-how and certification, they'll be able to help their co-workers find safety when needed. The whole laboratory must be aware of the people they can rely on during emergencies. The safety of everyone in the area should always be a top priority. Having a systematic emergency response plan that is easy to follow and remember can help prevent the damages when crises arise.
Image source: Safetyandhealthmagazine.com
Captain Martin Lloyd Sanders, Ph.D., is a scientist officer in the Commissioned Corps of the U.S. Public Health Service. He has more than 12 years of service in the field of epidemiology and occupational safety and health, with extensive experience in biological defense activities and infectious disease outbreak investigation. Visit this page for more information on Capt. Sanders.
