VETTER E learning course (EN)

In order to know how to respond to an emergency in the most effective way possible, first, the concept of what a Workplace Emergency is needs to be defined. A workplace emergency can come in a variety of forms, and it is an event that occurs and endangers a company’s employees, clients, or the public; or risks disrupting the workplace operations; or causes damage. These emergencies are roughly divided in three groups: natural, work-related and external or civil. Natural emergencies are those caused by disasters, and are very difficult to be predicted. Depending on the location of the company, some strategies will be more effective than others, so specific considerations must be taken into account. Work-related emergencies are caused by factors relating to the work conducted, thus, these are the most frequent yet the most predictable too. Finally, civil emergencies are those that involve harassment among employees or clients, and are deemed as external emergencies. 

All employers have the duty to ensure safety in the workplace. In order to do so, employees must be trained and informed on how to respond, the facilities need to be in good conditions, and the supervising and control systems must be active. In particular, organisations are committed to maintaining safe and healthy working conditions though the control of those work-related emergencies Through the control of the health and safety risks, provision and maintenance information, instruction, training as supervision, as well as prevention of potential issues, companies can safeguard health and foster their employee’s quality of life at work. 

In relation with the health and safety duties that companies are responsible for, here are some of the essential points:

• Assessing risks to health and safety and identifying ways to overcome them.

• Providing and maintaining a healthy and safe place to work and a safe means of entering and leaving their premises, including emergency procedures for use when needed.

• Providing information, instruction, training and supervision in safe working methods and procedures as well as working areas and equipment that are safe and without risks to health.

• Ensuring that equipment has all necessary safety devices installed, that equipment is properly maintained and that appropriate protective clothing is provided.

• Promoting co-operation between members of Employees/students to ensure safe and healthy conditions and systems of work by discussion and effective joint consultation and, if needed, the establishment of a safety committee, safety representatives and accident investigations where applicable.

• Regularly monitoring and reviewing the management of health and safety at work, making any necessary changes and bringing those to the attention of all Employees/students.

All Employees/students have to recognise that everyone shares responsibility for achieving healthy and safe working conditions. Everyone must consider the health and safety implications of their acts and/or omissions and take reasonable care for their health and safety and that of others.  

A safe place of work is normally overlooked, as companies are often not aware of what are the minimums. In order to have a safe place of work, companies must take into account:

• Facilities: making sure that the buildings are in good repair and that It works efficiently is essential for the safety of all employees. This involves having the necessary equipment, corridors free of obstructions, safety measures list checked…  

• Lighting: proper lighting, suitable forms of emergency lighting, well-lit stairs, and use natural light when possible.

• Moving around the premises: accessible stairs and ramps, safe passage for pedestrians, floors and surfaces which are not slippery.

• Cleanliness: provide clean facilities, provide containers, remove dirt regularly, and keep internal walls clean.

• Hygiene and welfare: clean toilets with soap, paper, and hot/cold water, drinking water available, showers if needed, rest facilities for pregnant women and nursing mothers, and showers for emergencies.

• Comfortable conditions: working temperature within workplaces, local heating or cooling systems, enough workspace, and good ventilation.

Supervision and control are key to prepare for emergencies in the workplace, and avoid that these unfortunate events have worse, or even tragic consequences. Because of that, it must be listed, checked and ensured that there is a planned response to work emergencies. Some of the following aspects need to be taken into account by the quality department:

1. Have an effective alerting system: finding an alarm system that is appropriate for your organisation’s needs is essential to ensure that all employees are warned in an event of emergency. Investing in an effective system can help handling a workplace emergency.