Earthquake Checklist for Business

Pre-Earthquake Planning

• Review emergency procedures with co-workers
  Conduct an employee survey of special skills and capabilities (such as ham radio)
• Develop personnel records that include family contacts, schools, doctors, and medical needs
• Encourage at home family disaster preparedness
• Pre-designate floor-wardens and/or disaster buddies for persons with physical disabilities
• Practice drop cover and hold as if and earthquake were taking place, encouraging people to find the safest place in their immediate environment
• Practice evacuating the work place. Walk through the evacuation routes and periodically inspect those routes to make certain they are not cluttered and or can be blocked by falling debris
  Practice utility shutoffs. Show several co-workers where and how utilities are to be shut off
• Conduct an earthquake vulnerability study to determine potential damage to your building, and un-reinforced masonry or concrete structures
• Review and practice first aid and CPR skills
• Check and refresh emergency supply kits
• Develop a mitigation plan that addresses emergency needs, including loss of utilities, and potential business loss and recovery
• During the Earthquake – April 3, 2003
  (Listen to KRKO 1389-AM between 9:45-10:00am for simulated Earthquake broadcast and EAS announcement)

Yell-out for all co-workers to DROP – COVER – HOLD and stay in that position until the ground stops moving

Post Earthquake

• Once the shaking stops, have everyone check themselves and the people surrounding them for injuries
• Remind co-workers of evacuation plans. Have floor warden check the evacuation routes while others grab their personal things (coats and keys)
• Evacuate
• Assist co-workers with evacuation to pre-designated assembly point
• Account for all employees
• Give first aid where appropriate
• Call 911 for life threatening emergencies
• Conduct building survey and check utilities
• Listen to portable radio for information regarding the incident
• Determine whether employees will re-enter facility or can go home to check on family (if roads are accessible)
• If facility can be re-entered, have clean up team go in first to clear debris, clean up spills and check for other possible hazards
• Remind co-workers of possible after-shocks and to once again follow procedures if they occur
• Assist co-workers back into the facility – conduct an employee meeting to talk about fears and emotions before getting back to business
• Provide ongoing employee assistance to those who need it