An emergency must be detected and reported before a company's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) can be put into effect.
Means of detecting and reporting an emergency:
(1) manual pull box
(2) radio
(3) telephone
(4) direct verbal
(5) automated (tied to machine function or sensors)
Devices used for reporting an emergency should be in working order, maintained and periodically tested. They should be able to work if utilities are lost (emergency power backup).
The number to call in the case of an emergency should be posted and readily accessible.
If the method of notification is a call, then there should be someone available at all times to receive the call.
The EAP should specify the sequence of actions to be taken for each kind of emergency. This would include:
(1) notification of all employees
(2) implementation of emergency equipment operation
(3) notification of emergency services
(4) notification of key personnel
Employee orientation and training should include review of the procedure for reporting an emergency.
