Aviation Human Factors Considers - Hazards in the Workplace - Dealing with Emergencies

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Introduction

It is important to ensure that all employees are aware of how to act in the event of a workplace emergency. Whilst not every person needs to be qualified as a fire marshal or Emergency First Aid Responder, it is important that a number of employees are "highly trained" and all employees have an general awareness of all potential emergencies and how to proceed.

All employees should understand what constitutes an emergency or disaster at the workplace?

Additionally, to understand:

a) Why is it important to invest time in a preparedness program?
b) Why is it important to seriously consider many different threats and hazards and the likelihood they will occur at the workplace?
c) Why is it important for employers to conduct testing and exercises to evaluate the effectiveness of the preparedness program?

Health & Safety

The organizations objective should focus on minimizing risks within the workplace, we can reasonably expect from time to time that we will have problems related to health and safety within the aircraft maintenance environment.

All personnel should know at least to a basic level how to deal with emergency situations.

Having an Emergency Response Plan and periodically practicing the Emergency drills provide for ideal preparation in what is potentially a dangerous environment.

Reality Check - Knowledge of what to do in an emergency can save lives.

What do We Mean by a Workplace Emergency?

a) Injuries related to self and others
b) An external threat which could be related to fire or noxious substance escape

Emergency Contacts and Communications

An essential element related to emergency preparedness requires the provision of emergency contact information as well as emergency communication plans in place.

All employees should know:

a) How to contact
b) Who to contact
c) Where to go

Note - An emergency quickly escalates when the appropriate professional help is not immediately available, emergencies happen all too often, and early intervention can save a life.

Employer Obligations

Employers should fully engage with programs to evaluate the effectiveness of the preparedness program with the objective to ensure employees know what to do and find any missing parts.

Employer Objectives to:

a) Train personnel. Clarify roles and responsibilities
b) Reinforce knowledge of procedures, facilities, systems, and equipment
c) Improve individual performance as well as organizational coordination and communications
d) Evaluate policies, plans, procedures and the knowledge and skills of team members to:

i. Reveal weaknesses and resource gaps
ii. Comply with local laws, codes, and regulations
iii. Gain recognition for the emergency management and business continuity program

Employee Obligations

a) Be aware of your surroundings and locate:
b) Any potential dangers
c) Where to exit in case of emergency
d) Emergency Washing Location
e) First aid kits in case of a minor accident

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