OSHA strongly recommends that all businesses have an EAP.
Processes or Activities that Require EAPs
Facilities or operations regulated under the following OSHA standards are required to have written EAPs:
- 1910.119-Process Safety Management of Highly Hazardous Chemicals
- 1910.157-Portable Fire Extinguishers (if employees are not trained in the use of extinguishers and are required to evacuate)
- 1910.160–Fixed Extinguishing Systems, General
- 1910.164–Fire Detection Systems
- 1910.165-Employee Alarm Systems
- 1910.272–Grain Handling
- 1910.1047-Ethylene Oxide
- 1910.1050-Methylenedianiline
- 1910.1051-1,3 Butadiene
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Emergency Plans for Unique Operations
There are regulatory requirements to develop written emergency procedures or plans for a unique type of workplace or operation. For example, workplaces where employees may be exposed to such specific hazardous chemicals as cadmium, benzene, vinyl chloride, and formaldehyde must develop written plans for dealing with emergency situations involving releases of such substances. Special operations, such as operating powered platforms and working in confined spaces, require written plans for handling emergencies.
EAP for California
Cal/OSHA strongly recommends that all businesses have an EAP. An EAP must be in writing, kept in the workplace, and available to employees for review. Employers must develop safety procedures to protect employees from fire and other emergencies that may be reasonably expected to occur in the workplace.
Facilities with the following processes, activities, or chemicals are required by Cal/OSHA to have written EAPs:
- Process Safety Management of Highly Hazardous Chemicals
- Fixed Extinguishing Systems
- Fire Detection Systems
- Grain Handling
- Ethylene Oxide
- Methylenedianiline
- 1,3 Butadiene
See the Cal/OSHA-compliant EAP template on Safety.BLR.com to get started.
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A Bit About Emergency Response Training
Every employee needs to know what he or she is expected to do when an emergency alarm sounds–and further, to do it quickly. For most employees, the proper response is simply to evacuate the work area in a rapid but orderly manner, using proper exit routes, and to assemble in a designated “safe area.” However, some employees–OSHA calls them “evacuation wardens”–should be given the responsibility for making sure that other employees leave the area properly and safely. OSHA recommends one warden for every 20 employees, and suggests that they receive specialized training in:
- Knowing the complete layout of the building or work area, including the various exit routes
- Giving guidance and instruction to employees during evacuation
- Knowing how to assist employees, such as those with disabilities, who may need assistance
- Checking all rooms and enclosed spaces to make sure that no one is left behind
See tomorrow’s Advisor for tips on writing your EAP.