Dealing with an Emergency
Employees should receive instruction on how to deal with emergency situations.
Incidents and accidents do sometimes happen in workplaces, so you must know how to respond to them. Because every workplace is different, it’s essential that you are told about the location of first aiders or first aid items and fire extinguishers, how they are used, and the emergency evacuation procedures used where you work.
Pay attention when you are told about the first aid and fire facilities and other procedures at your workplace. If you are still not sure ask for further information.
First aid facilities
If you or your workmates are involved in an accident, first aid is crucial. Your employer must provide first aid facilities and must tell you where they are.
They may be in a room set aside specifically for first aid treatment, a number of stations within the workplace, or just a first aid box on a wall. If you’re not sure, find out what first aid facilities you have at your workplace, and how to get to it in an emergency.
There may be a qualified first aider at your workplace. Your employer should advise you if there is.
Fire extinguishers
Your employer must also tell you where the fire extinguishers are located, what types of fire they are suitable for, how to use them, and when to retreat from a fire.
Alarm signals
If a fire or other emergency does occur, there will be an alarm of some kind. You must be able to identify the alarm signals so you know what they mean. Your employer must provide training so you know what to do and where to go if there is an emergency.
