Are you prepared?

Large-scale accidents and natural disasters can occur at any moment – on busy construction sites, the potential for damage is greatly magnified. How prepared are you for an emergency?

We seem to take it for granted that should an emergency happen, we will be able to return home straight away. This isn’t always the case.

We’ve put together a brief guide of things you should consider when preparing an emergency response plan. 

Earthquakes and fires

In the event of an earthquake or fire, remember to:

• Learn how to isolate the gas, power and water supplies at your worksite.
• Identify your evacuation point and ensure it’s in a safe place in the event, away from obvious fire or earthquake hazards.
• Have emergency procedures in place and make sure the whole team is aware of them. You can cover this off at your toolbox/prestart meetings.

Additionally, in the event of an earthquake, remember to drop, cover and hold, and also make sure you have provisions available in case you are stuck at work for a number of days.

If a fire occurs, immediately dial 111.  When it comes to a major fire, the best idea is to evacuate, not try to fight the fire.

Incorrect use of fire extinguishers can also spread and increase the size of the fire.

Chemical/Environmental emergency (such as a diesel spill)

Make sure you know what hazardous chemicals/substances are present at your worksite, and:

• Learn how to isolate the gas, power and water supplies.
• Have a storage container/bund wall capable of containing the breach.
• Store appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), which is available for everyone on site.
• Make sure everyone is trained in the safe control of the chemicals you have on site and any emergency procedures associated with their use.
• Have local council and emergency services contact numbers ready.

Medical emergency

• Have trained first aiders and first aid kits on site.
• Be aware if anyone on site has a particular medical condition you should know about.
• If an ambulance is required, call 111.

For all emergencies

Make sure you get to know your team – they could have individual skills and knowledge that could be useful in an emergency. Also, make sure that you:

• Induct all your team members, so they know what to do in case of an emergency.
• Identify key contacts.
• Know where alternative exits are.
• Know your head count – how many of your team are on site and need to be accounted for at the evacuation point. Also check the sign in register to make sure visitors are safe.The key to effective emergency management is to be prepared!

Site Safe is a not-for-profit, membership based organisation that promotes, inspires and supports a culture of health and safety in New Zealand construction.