Falls, fires and severe weather can happen on any site. Here is how to turn panic into a clear, practiced response.
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Emergencies do not wait for a plan
Falls, fires, heat illness, gas leaks and severe weather can happen on any site. In those moments, crews do not have time to figure out who calls 911 or where to meet. An emergency action plan and first aid readiness turn panic into a clear response.
What the emergency plan covers
- How to report an emergency and who calls for help.
- Evacuation routes and assembly points.
- How to account for every worker after evacuation.
- Who is responsible for each step.
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Know the site address
Workers should know the exact site address and the best access point for emergency vehicles. On large or new sites without a clear address, post directions at the entrance.
First aid on site
OSHA requires that first aid be available. When there is no medical facility reasonably close, a person trained in first aid must be on site. Keep first aid kits stocked and easy to find.
Nearest medical facility
Identify the nearest hospital or urgent care and post the route in the site office. Include this in the site orientation for every new worker.
Fire response
Place fire extinguishers where they are required, train workers to use them and keep exits clear. Hot work, temporary heat and fuel storage increase fire risk.
Severe weather
Plan for lightning, high winds, tornadoes or hurricanes based on the region. Decide in advance when work stops and where crews shelter.
Practice it
A short drill shows gaps that a written plan hides. Review the plan in toolbox talks and when the site layout changes.
After an incident
Report injuries as required, investigate what happened and update the plan. Support the workers involved, since emergencies affect everyone on the crew.
Post the contacts
Post emergency numbers, the site address, the nearest hospital and the names of first-aid-trained workers at the site office and in the gang box. In an emergency, nobody should need to search a phone for a number.
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Frequently asked questions
Does a construction site need someone trained in first aid?
OSHA requires first aid to be available, and when no medical facility is reasonably accessible, a person trained in first aid must be on site.