12. Emergency Preparedness

Not all accidents can be prevented. Effective emergency preparedness means planning and practising in advance so that, in the event of an emergency, the harm to people, the environment and to the business is minimised. Firstly, potential emergencies should be identified and categorised. Plans should then be developed to respond to these emergencies. Systems for emergency communication should be established and technical systems, for example, for fire protection and emergency power, should be put in place. Emergency teams of experienced personnel should be established to execute the emergency plans and their competence should be assured through regular drills and exercises. Adequate first aid and medical support should be available if required. Finally, organised outside aid with civil / governmental agencies and mutual aid agreements with other companies may be required if the organisation could face a major emergency and requires additional assistance.

Emergency Preparedness explained by Stuart Greenfield from DNV GL UK