environmental protection plan

Source excerpt

# What are the legal requirements for having an emergency response plan? The specific legislative requirements vary depending on the jurisdiction the workplace is covered under, as well as the type and characteristics of the workplace. Occupational health and safety legislation often outlines the general requirements for preparing and responding to emergencies. Where the legislation does not specifically address emergency planning, the general duty clause would apply, which requires employers to take all reasonable precautions, under the particular circumstances, to prevent injuries or incidents in the workplace. Provincial, territorial, or federal fire codes will outline requirements related to fire protection, including the need for a fire safety plan. ## What is the overall objective of the emergency plan? An emergency plan specifies procedures for handling sudden or unexpected situations. The objective is to be prepared to: - Prevent fatalities and injuries. - Reduce damage to buildings, stock, and equipment. - Protect the environment and the community. - Accelerate the resumption of normal operations. Development of the plan begins with a vulnerability assessment. The results of the study will show: - How likely a situation is to occur. - What means are available to stop or prevent the situation. - What is necessary for a given situation. From this analysis, appropriate emergency procedures can be established. At the planning stage, it is important that the relevant individuals or groups be asked to participate. Members of the team can include: - employees with knowledge of the work - supervisor of the area or work - safety officer - health and safety committee - union representative, if applicable Emergency Planning CCOHS

Source excerpt

# Climate Change: Extreme Weather - Preparing for Climate Related Emergencies (cont.) ## How can a workplace plan for a climate related emergency? (cont.) - Flooding from heavy rain or snow melt - Poor air quality - Reduced visibility outdoors, poor driving conditions and road closures - Building collapse and structural failures - Spills and unintentional release of chemicals - Equipment malfunctions - Loss of power, water supply, communication, and other utilities - Workers being stranded at the office, a worksite or remote location ## Risk Assessment After all the hazards have been identified for each climate emergency, an assessment should be done to evaluate the risks that each of these hazards pose to workers, property, and the environment. To assess risk, consider the likelihood of harm or damage, as well as the severity of that harm or damage. This assessment will help with prioritization and resource allocation during emergency planning, and most importantly the development of proper emergency response procedures. Areas where flammables, explosives, or chemicals are used or stored should be considered as a likely place for many of these hazards to occur during an emergency. The possibility of one event triggering others must be considered. For example, a fire caused by extreme weather (e.g., forest fire, tornado) may lead to an explosion, and cause structural failure and trigger many other possible events. During the hazard identification and risk assessment process, gaps or deficiencies in current hazard control measures may be identified, as well as previously undetected hazardous conditions that could increase risk during emergency situations. These issues should be addressed appropriately. ## Emergency Response Plans Once the possible climate emergencies and potential risks and consequences of those emergencies have been identified, the actions required to protect workers, property and the environment can be determined. When consid…

Source excerpt

# Climate Change: Extreme Weather - Preparing for Climate Related Emergencies (cont.) ## Emergency Response Plans (cont.) - Detailed lists of emergency response personnel including their cell phone numbers, alternate contact details, and their duties and responsibilities. - Large scale maps showing evacuation routes, service conduits (e.g., gas and water lines), first aid supplies, emergency equipment, and gathering areas or muster points. - Designated safe areas for seeking shelter, and an inventory of emergency food and water. - Process for checking the local weather forecast and air quality, and a communication plan for sending weather alerts to workers. - Emergency procedures for workers, including those who: - Work outside - Travel and visit multiple work locations - Are located in remote areas - Work alone - Are responsible for overseeing critical processes and equipment - Details on how plans will be initiated and communicated with workers in the event of an emergency - Requirements for practicing the execution of the plans by performing drills and exercises. - Process for regularly reviewing the plans and their effectiveness, and making revisions as needed Plans should factor in how long it will take for emergency services to respond. In the event of climate emergencies, there could be a delay in response due to an increase in demand for these services by the community and other workplaces in the area. Alternatively, your organization may be able to offer services to others in an emergency. This further emphasizes the importance of emergency planning from both a workplace and community perspective when possible. Plans also need incorporate procedures on how to safely monitor, shut down or to continually operate critical processes, equipment and other devices that may cause injuries or damage in the event of a power failure or malfunction. Since a sizable document will likely result, the plan should provide workers wit…