Training for Emergencies
A frequently overlooked portion of the training provisions is dealing with emergency procedures. The scope of employee training depends on the extent to which the employer plans to respond to emergencies.
Employees must know how to handle hazardous chemicals safely.
The HCS training program may need to include the Emergency Action Plan and/or the HAZWOPER Emergency Response Plan as follows:
- Emergency Action Plan (EAP): If the employer merely intends to evacuate the work area, the training in emergency procedures could be limited to, information on the emergency alarm system in use at the worksite, evacuation routes, and reporting areas as detailed in the employer's emergency action plan under 1910.38, Emergency Action Plans.
- Emergency Response Plan (ERP): Where employees are expected to moderate or control the impact of the emergency in a manner similar to an emergency responder, training under 1910.120, Hazardous Waste and Emergency Operations (HAZWOPER), would be required.
Real-Life Accident
At 6:45 a.m. on March 10, 2020, Employee # 1 was attempting to rescue Employee # 2 from hydrogen sulfide poison. He was overcome by the hydrogen sulfide and was killed. Employees were exposed to contaminants without the employer estimating exposure or considering the atmosphere to be Immediately Dangerous to Life and Health (IDLH).
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
2-10. What emergency plan is activated if employees are expected to evacuate in response to a chemical spill or fire?
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