Emergency response plan procedures, development

An OSHA emergency response plan (ERP) is a written plan to prepare for and handle anticipated emergencies prior to the emergency. If employees are expected to respond to spills or releases requiring an emergency response, OSHA requires the development of an ERP that contains required elements as outlined in 29 CFR 1910.120 (q)(2) and (l)(3)(iv). The following are the minimum type of procedures ... 

Procedures and criteria for evacuation versus the use of temporary havens must be developed during the emergency response planning process. Such decisions should not be made casually at the time of the event. 

Response A contingent plan should be developed while the confirmation is taking place. This should include the release of precautionary notices and readiness to implement an emergency response plan. Should a biological threat be confirmed, a procedure (planned and practiced) should be implemented for remedial action. This would include authority and public notification, containment, and/or diversion of the water, and medical alert and response. 

For facilities that have developed several contingent responses or evacuation procedures, the alarm system must provide distinctive and recognizable signals as necessary for proper action as designated in the emergency response plan. 

Use personal protective equipment Provide sufficient bottled air/SCBA Develop emergency response procedures Develop appropriate evacuation plans... 

The plan should be audited on a regular basis, at least annually to assure tliat it is current. Items to be updated include the list of potential hazards and emergency procedures (adapted to any newly developed teclmology). A guideline for auditing the emergency response phui, adapted from literature published by the Chemical Manufacturers Association, is presented below in question format."... 

Both removal and remedial actions may be carried out at the same site. To accomplish these tasks, CERCLA has given cleanup authority to U.S. EPA, has established the Hazardous Substance Response Trust Fund (Superfund) to finance the remedial actions at CERCLA sites, has initiated a procedure for the emergency response to accidental spills, and has imposed cleanup liability on those responsible. The National Contingency Plan (NCP) was developed in 1982 and in 1985 as the regulatory framework to guide these responses. 

Emergency Planning and Response. Employers must develop and implement an emergency action plan. The emergency action plan must include procedures for handling small releases. 

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