Expect the Unexpected

Never take anything for granted.  The key to staying safe at work is to expect the unexpected and to be prepared for anything to go wrong.

That’s what emergency planning is all about.  Even though you are doing your best to work safely, you make plans about what you will do in case of an accident.

Know what to do in case of an injury, fire, chemical spill, storm or other mishap:

• Learn your role in the emergency plan at your work area.  You may be assigned special duties or you may simply be required to get out of the building. 
• Familiarize yourself with at least two exit routes from your work area, and where to assemble with other co-workers after you escape.
• Find out what people and agencies you should contact in an emergency.  Their telephone numbers should be posted at each phone.  In many communities, the telephone number 9-1-1 puts you in touch with some emergency services.   Find out if you should dial this number from your workplace, and under what circumstances.