On this page

• 9.1 Introduction to workplace emergency plans
• 9.2 What to include in an emergency plan
• 9.3 What to consider when making an emergency plan
• 9.4 Maintaining and testing emergency plans
• 9.5 Managing the risks of fires
• 9.6 More information

9.1 Introduction to workplace emergency plans

9.1.1

An emergency plan tells people in the workplace what to do in an emergency.

9.1.2

This section provides guidance on the requirements for preparing and maintaining an emergency plan for your workplace.

9.1.3

You must ensure that an emergency plan is prepared for the workplace and then maintained and tested.

9.1.4

You must implement the emergency plan when an emergency occurs.

9.1.5

You must engage with your workers when proposing changes that may affect their health or safety.

9.2 What to include in an emergency plan

9.2.1

Emergency plans must include the following:

• emergency procedures including:
  • an effective response to an emergency
  • evacuation procedures
  • procedures for notifying emergency services at the earliest opportunity
  • medical treatment and assistance procedures
  • procedures to make sure there is effective communication between the person authorised by you to coordinate the emergency response and all other persons at the workplace
• providing for testing of the emergency procedures, including the frequency of testing
• providing information, training, and instruction to be given to relevant workers for implementing the emergency procedures.

9.2.2

Include a detailed site plan in your emergency plan showing where emergency equipment and first aid supplies can be found, and the location of utilities.

9.3 What to consider when making an emergency plan

9.3.1

When working out your emergency plan, you must consider:

• the size and location of the workplace
• the number and composition of the workforce
• the nature of the work being carried out
• the nature of the workplace hazards.

9.3.2

This could include the types of emergency situations your workplace may face. For example, bush fires, adverse weather (lightning, cyclones) or other natural disasters. Think about:

• Could your workers need an escape route?
• What equipment and training could you need to deal with the emergency?
• What resources would be needed at the worksite if workers become stranded?

9.3.3

Tailor emergency plans to the type of work and workplace. In higher risk situations, more comprehensive plans will likely be required.

9.3.4

Make sure all workers know who is responsible for activating and coordinating emergency procedures and what they need to do to keep themselves and others safe in an emergency.

9.4 Maintaining and testing emergency plans

9.4.1

You must maintain the emergency plan for the workplace so that it remains effective.

9.4.2

Review and update the emergency plan:

• when there are changes to work activities or the physical workplace
• if the workers who have emergency responsibilities change
• if new risks have been identified.

9.4.3

Test emergency plans. Following any testing, conduct a review to identify areas for improvement or updating. Seek and consider feedback from your workers.

9.5 Managing the risks of fires

9.5.1

In the event of any fire, make sure that there is an agreed process to manage the risk. This could include:

• calling 111
• notifying anyone else in the forest
• notifying neighbours
• exiting the forest to a designated safe location.

9.5.2

Removing people from the risk is the most important thing.

9.6 More information

9.6.1

For more information, see Resources webpage