Assemblies, emergency procedures

While most chemical facilities have an emergency plan, it may not be as detailed as required for the PSM rule and it may not have addressal of the response and recovery stages of an emergency. The plan is required to include types of accidents considered, emergency procedures and responsibilities, escape routes, locations for safe zones (assembly points), types of alarms, actions before evacuation, personnel accounting, rescue and medical responsibilities, reporting, local coordination, and the procedures for handling small releases of hazardous material. 

Key risk control measures, e.g. security, user checks, permit to work system > The emergency procedure for the workplace, e.g. the sound of the fire alarm, the location of the assembly point... 

Arrangements for personnel head count after emergency evacuation has been completed. Generally, evacuated staff should be directed to a known assembly point a safe distance and location away from the evacuated premises. Supervisors should then make sure that all their staff are accounted for, and confirm this to the Emergency Procedures Co-ordinator or person deputising. 

Tier 1 synchro suppliers who provide all of the basic capabilities, but with virtually no safety stock. Additional capabilities for the supplier are synchro logistics and IT expertise which is closely integrated with the assembler, greater flexibility and more secure emergency procedures. They operate through clone plants that are situated on supplier parks no more than 10 minutes travel time from the assembler s production line. 

Not only should laboratory workers be aware of emergency telephone numbers, but they also should know the location and proper use of fire-fighting appliances, rescue equipment, and emergency exits. They also should be familiar with the prescribed procedure for evacuating the building and the location of the outside assembly point where personnel rollcalls will be checked. 

Site evacuation routes and other alternative routes should be made available for reaching any site of emergency from inside and outside. Personnel accounting, procedure, assembly areas, safety zones, and exits should be known to everyone. 

Quick Reference Cards—Quick reference cards may include wallet or pocket size cards that include information such as alarms, phone numbers, assembly points, main shutoffs, or emergency actions. These cards should be easy to read and should address specific conditions and actions. As with any procedure, the cards must be controlled to ensure that the information is accurate and up to date. 

In the event of a fire, all personnel not carrying out nominated duties should gather at their assembly point. This should be convenient to reach but in a safe area and not obstructing the access for emergency services. Written standing orders should give procedures for roll calls. 

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